relaxation response


re·lax·a·tion re·sponse

an integrated hypothalamic reaction in which a human being or animal experiences safety and a sense of nurturing; resulting in decreased sympathetic nervous system activity that, physiologically and psychologically, is almost a mirror image of fight or flight response; it can be self-induced through the use of techniques associated with transcendental meditation, yoga, and biofeedback.
See also: fight or flight response.

relaxation response

A term coined in 1975 by Dr Herbert Benson of Harvard Medical School for the use of “good breathing techniques”, active muscle relaxation and meditation as a means of lowering blood pressure and reducing internal and external stress.