Health benefits of self-care primarily Relaxation Response

Dr. Herbert Benson in his book entitled The Relaxation Response lists the following conditions "that, to the extent caused by or affected by mind/body connections (such as stress and the fight-or-flight response), can be significantly improved or even cured when self-care techniques are used:

  • angina pectoris
  • cardiac arrythmia
  • allergic skin reactions
  • anxiety
  • mild and moderate depression
  • bronchial asthma
  • herpes simplex
  • cough
  • constipation
  • diabetes mellitus
  • duodenal ulcers
  • dizziness
  • fatigue
  • hypertension
  • infertility
  • insomnia
  • nausea and vomiting during pregnanacy
  • nervousness
  • all forms of pain - backache, headaches, abdominal pain, joint aches, post operative pain, neck, arm and leg pain
  • postoperative swelling
  • premenstrual syndrome
  • rheumatoid arthritis
  • side effects of cancer
  • side effects of AIDS

Dr. Herbert Benson warns that although "every illness has a mind-body component and some potential for benefit if you employ self-care techniques", "always start with discussing medical complaint with your personal physician".

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