title: Clinical application of the relaxation response in women's health.
abstract: Women are subject to multiple stressors and often get little recognition or support for their diverse roles. Although stress is a natural part of life, research indicates that prolonged or extreme stress can have a negative effect on a woman's health. Nurses, because of their holistic approach, are ideally suited to use interventions that empower women to deal effectively with stress. This article outlines the mind/body connection and describes the relaxation response as a counterbalance to the deleterious effects of stress. Instructions for several methods of using the relaxation response in a clinical setting are given.
authors.forename: J P
authors.initials: JP
authors.lastname: Deckro
authors.forename: A D
authors.initials: AD
authors.lastname: Domar
authors.forename: R M
authors.initials: RM
authors.lastname: Deckro
mesh_terms: D005260:Female; D005783:Gender Identity; D006801:Humans; D012064:Relaxation Therapy; D013315:Stress, Psychological / Q000209:etiology / Q000451:nursing* / Q000517:prevention & control; D016387:Women's Health