Progressive muscle relaxation, or PMR, is an exercise that involves gently tightening and then releasing a muscle or muscle group. Actively increasing tension and then allowing the tension to release can help muscles relax. This type of exercise is done by relaxing one muscle group at a time, and progressing through each area of the body until all the muscles are relaxed. This is why it is a progressive muscle relaxation.

Remember the following safety considerations for any relaxation exercise.

• None of the movements should cause pain or discomfort.
• Do each exercise gently, only tightening an area until you feel tension (not pain) in the muscle.
• Avoid any movements that would be risky for you. For example, if you have an injury, avoid tensing the muscles in that area. Just think about relaxing the area without tensing it first.
• Listen to your body, and don't do anything that is uncomfortable.

You will probably experience a reduction in muscle tension and will feel more relaxed, but you will still experience the benefits of relaxation even if you feel the same.