The benefits of each of the of the seven steps to relaxation...
Move
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Dance and warm-up exercises release adrenaline into the blood stream which increases heart rate, body temperature and blood flow to the muscles. These physiological responses feedback to the brain to prepare the body for more exertion to follow.
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Play
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Fun and relaxation games increase production of ‘'feel good’ brain chemicals such as serotonin, dopamine and oxytocin. These chemicals promote well-being and contentment as well as control sleep, attention, learning and emotions. Games also stimulate neurogenesis – the creation of new neurons in many areas of the brain, including the hippocampus, important in learning and memory and also involved in emotions. Imaginative play is also known to be a vital tool for optimum brain development for learning social and self regulation skills and cognitive flexibility (creativity).
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Stretch
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Stretching allows cortisol levels to decrease so inducing the relaxation response in the brain while reducing the stress response.
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Feel |
Peer /Self massage enhances the effects from stretching and helps relax muscle tension. Massage also: • decreases chemicals in stress response • triggers the relaxation response • increases delta waves in brain as seen during deep sleep • releases oxytocin the 'love hormone' as a result of gentle touch.
This is essential for optimum brain development. |
Breathe
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Diaphragmatic breathing is taught which: • increases oxygen uptake • slows the breath rate
• Stimulates the relaxation response and suppresses the stress response New studies show that by focusing on the breath regularly can: • strengthen brain connections between ‘'thoughtful’ prefrontal lobes to the ‘'fear and anxiety-generating’ amygdala. • shift brain activity in this area from the discontented right side to the left side responsible for feelings of well-being and happiness |
Believe
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Scientific studies show that affirmations practised regularly can: • lead to a surge of the neurotransmitter dopamine which can increases motivation, commitment and attention • strengthen the immune system through release of DHEA hormone and proteins • increase brain connection's ‘neuroplasticity. Children can literally rewire their brains to think more positively by focusing on positive thoughts • combat the effect of negative emotions which we are believed to respond more strongly to
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Relax
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.Scientific studies have shown that visualisation forms complex brain connections as many different areas of the brain are activated, affecting 'neuroplasticity' whereby the brain is shaped through regular practise.
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