Helping Your Child Relax: The Benefits of Progressive Muscle Relaxation
Stress is inevitable. Studies show that 17% of children experience stress related symptoms. A technique scientifically proven to help kids manage stress and anxiety is progressive muscle relaxation.
What is Progressive Muscle Relaxation?
Progressive muscle relaxation (PMR) is a technique where children learn to tense and relax different muscles in their body.
Benefits of PMR for kids:
- Reduces tension and stress
- Improves sleep quality
- Helps manage anxiety
- Teaches body awareness
PMR can be beneficial for children dealing with stress-related physical symptoms and anxiety. PMR is a skill kids can use anytime and anywhere.
Why PMR Works Well for Kids
PMR is a technique that actively engages children’s natural curiosity and imagination. By learning what they are doing and how to do it, it makes them perform this stress-relieving strategy more often, giving kids a sense of control over their bodies and emotions.
The act of tensing and releasing your muscles reduces your child’s cortisol levels. Cortisol is a hormone related to stress. Reducing your cortisol levels decreases your fight-or-flight response and activates your parasympathetic nervous system, responsible for resting and digesting. This system delivers signals to your brain to help regulate your heartbeat and breathing levels and induces a calming feeling.
Takeaways
Parents interested in exploring this technique with their child should consult their pediatrician. They can guide parents to age-appropriate resources or specialists who work with children.
Every child is unique, and different methods work for different children. The key is to start these methods with patience and encouragement. After much practice, you child may find tools that help them feel calm and in control.
If you’re interested in learning more about PMR, please contact us at info@resetpediatrics.com. Our social workers are ready to assist you with information and guidance on PMR.
Reset Research Team: Lawrentina D'Souza, Alexa Gavrilidis, Deeksha Kumar, Reisa Herbert, Julia Tuccitto