Relaxation techniques

Techniques of relaxation involve simple breathing exercises which, together with relaxation of the body, can give greater control over your emotions. 

We hope you find these resources helpful. If you are able to come to Mount Vernon Cancer Centre, come to a group relaxation session to learn other techniques. These are held at the LJMC several times a week. 

Listen to our CD: Relaxation

Listen to a relaxation recording

The LJMC also stocks a range of relaxation CDs to buy or borrow.

Our own CD – Relaxation – is also available to purchase or download. This was recorded specially for the LJMC by Relaxation Therapist Ann Weston with music composed by Steph West.

Just click on the image to play the recording.

Practise at home

The most effective way of managing stress and anxiety is to make time for yourself and practise calming exercises regularly. We’ve produced a number of publications that you may find helpful:

PI83 Relaxation and breathing techniques PI83 Relaxation and breathing techniques
HHC313 Breathing space: Being mindful of your breath – an easy five-minute practice HHC313 Breathing space
HHC316 Using your senses to calm yourself: simple ways to use your senses to create a calm environment and help you when things get tough. HHC316 Using your senses to calm yourself
HHC213 Coping with anxiety: ways to help you cope with anxiety and sources of help HHC213 Coping with anxiety
Lynda Jackson Macmillan Centre - supporting people affected by cancerUsing a reflexology point on your hands as a self-help technique for calming
This video has been produced by the LJMC Complementary Therapy team
Dur: 7’39” Reflexology point
Lynda Jackson Macmillan Centre - supporting people affected by cancerFour-sided breathing for relaxation
This video has been produced by the Complementary Therapy team at the LJMC.
Dur: 4’36” Four-sided breathing for relaxation

Calming and relaxing movement

Some people find that gentle exercise is a good way to relax. We’ve put together some resources which you may find helpful.

Breathing techniques

We have gathered together some video resources that teach simple breathing techniques which you might find supportive.