Forget all the relaxation techniques I've been discussing this past week!  I stumbled across an article today talking about a pocket sized gadget called the StressEraser that, using biofeedback, can help us eliminate our stress.

Ok, so don't forget everything that I've talked about, because all the techniques and aids I've discussed really are very useful and this gadget costs $300. But what the gadget "teaches" you to do is control your breathing, which in turn, reduces your heart rate and your stress, allowing you to relax.  In a nutshell, the StressEraser has a little infrared sensor you slip on your finger which registers the way you are breathing and displays your breathing pattern as waves on the screen of the device.  The machine then tells you when to exhale, helping you to slow and control your breathing.  You also count the breath waves on the machine (which is a form of meditation by the way), which helps to clear the mind.  So, if you can't afford to shell out $300 bucks for the StressEraser or would simply prefer to learn to do for yourself what it teaches you to do, here is a controlled breathing exercise:

Controlled Breathing Exercise:

  1. Sit upright in a comfortable position.
  2. Focus on your present state and existence (this is often termed being “mindful”). Block out intrusive thoughts. You may close your eyes if you wish.
  3. Pay attention to your breathing. Inhale slowly through the nose, taking several seconds.
  4. Exhale through the mouth, trying to make the exhalation phase last twice as long as the inhalation.
  5. Continue this mindful breathing for 3-5 minutes

This exercise is also a form of meditation (and there are many other techniques).  Until next time, breathe easy!