One of the newest relaxation techniques involves biofeedback. Researchers have found that biofeedback is useful in relaxing muscles, lowering blood pressure, and increasing the long, slow brain waves called alpha waves. Electronic sensors are placed on the skin to monitor bodily conditions, such as skin temperature, muscle tension, and brain waves. Once a person receives feedback on a monitor that his or her brain waves have changed, indicating excessive tension, he or she can direct the body to correct this condition. Because the sensitive electronic equipment involved must be calibrated carefully and the electrodes placed precisely, it is advisable that this technique be practiced under the supervision of a biofeedback expert if the technique is to be successful.
Many people find inner calm and peace through sincere religious beliefs.
For them, prayer and worship produce a state of profound joy and contentment that contributes greatly to their mental well-being. A strong religious faith can also help a person cope with the various crises that arise in life. Even those who do not have religious beliefs often have some kind of faith, perhaps in a particular philosophy of life, that helps contribute to emotional stability and provides underlying mental strength. Onset of Mental Problems Onset of Mental Problems. Everyone, on occasion, experiences the unpleasant emotions of anger, frustration, sadness, mild depression, worry, loneliness, and uncertainty.