have higher rates of serious and lifethreatening illnesses than the general population . These include heart disease , cancer , stroke , chronic pain , diabetes and hepatitis .
Following 30 years of research on the effects of stress on neurological , hormonal , and immunological pathways , PNI research now examines the impact of relaxation techniques on specific biomarkers and chronic conditions . For example , guided imagery can reduce biological and psychological effects of PTSD .( 15 , 16 )
PNI provides a useful framework to understand the impact of trauma on health . Regular practice of simple relaxation skills such as diaphragmatic breathing and guided imagery improve mental and physical health . Diaphragmatic breathing decreases stress as measured by physiological biomarkers , as well psychological selfreport tools .( 17 ) Given the benefits on stress reduction , it is recognised that diaphragmatic breathing is an effective self-administered , low-cost , nonpharmacological intervention .
The vagal nerve is the main nerve of the parasympathetic nervous system , our biological pathway to rest and restoration . Diaphragmatic breathing stimulates the vagal nerve , thereby stimulating the parasympathetic nervous response which in turn can reduce chronic inflammation . Recent data indicates that vagal tone also regulates innate immune system responses and releases acetylcholine , which enables us to restore a sense of calm .( 18 )
Healthy lifestyle factors such as relaxation and social connections have been associated with longer telomere length and it appears that these factors can protect individuals from stressinduced telomere shortening .( 19 ) Telomeres are a region of repetitive DNA at the end of each chromosome to protect them from deterioration , very similar to plastic tips on shoelaces that prevent the ends from fraying .
Stress is known to increase the rate of telomere shortening . Telomere shortening is linked to ageing , lifestyle factors , disease risk , and progression of cardiovascular conditions and premature mortality through many types of cancer , including breast , prostate , colorectal , bladder , head and neck , lung , and renal cell .( 20 , 21 ) It is now understood that telomere length is affected by the interplay between genetics , life experiences and psychosocial and behavioural factors . Comprehensive lifestyle changes that include relaxation techniques significantly increase telomerase activity and the capacity to maintain telomere length in specific immune cells .
Health professionals need to be familiar with scientific evidence that links thoughts , emotions and well-being , since it leads to better health care options . This improved health care occurs through translating scientific evidence into best clinical practice , and supports greater multidisciplinary approaches that include relaxation therapy in health care .
Dr Judy Lovas is Australia ’ s expert in psychoneuroimmunology-based relaxation therapy and an international speaker . She has a PhD from University of Sydney and a Diploma of Adult Education . With up-todate knowledge , passion and humour , Judy teaches medical and health professionals how relaxation therapy enhances mental health and physical wellbeing . She explains PNI research , demonstrates how to practice simple relaxation skills and how to apply them clinically . Judy emphasises the importance of personal relaxation practice for self-care before clinicians offer patients ’ relaxation for anxiety , pain , trauma , depression , sleep disorders and chronic inflammatory conditions . Using research from psychoneuroimmunology , she explains pathways and mechanisms by which simple relaxation skills can reduce chronic conditions . Judy is determined to increase relaxation therapies in 21st century healthcare . For information about courses in PNI-based relaxation therapy contact Judy at judymlovas @ gmail . com
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