There are a number of causes of muscle tension, but the most common causes are stress and a sedentary lifestyle. For this reason, most techniques that are used to relieve tension in the muscles are also techniques that require relaxation, exercise, or a combination of the two. If you happen to work at a desk or computer for long hours every day, the muscle tension that you experience may be cause by sitting in the same position for long periods of time. You can combat this by getting up from your desk every hour or so and doing some simple stretching exercises. Also, consider taking part of your lunch hour and going for a walk.
Exercise in general is a great way to help reduce stress and relieve excess tension in the muscles. Some of the best exercises to relieve muscle tension are yoga, Pilates, and tai chi. These kinds of exercises promote relaxation and proper breathing, which are great ways to help reduce tension in the muscles. Using one of these kinds of exercises once a week is a great way to get fit, stay fit, and reduce muscle tension.
Some people turn to massage therapy to reduce muscle tension. Although massages can be expensive, they are a great way to relieve tension in the muscles. Before a massage, it is best to speak with the massage therapist about trouble areas and places that are most commonly troubled by excessive muscle tension. The therapist can then focus on treating these areas during the session. Despite the expense, many people budget for monthly and even weekly massage therapy sessions because of the health benefits of the treatment, including the reduction of tension in the muscles.
Another way to reduce muscle tension is to meditate. Meditation is a great way to reduce stress, help one feel more centered, and reduce excess tension in the muscles. For those who are not familiar with meditation, there are recordings that, when listened to, can guide one through the process. These recordings of guided meditations can be listened to on a daily basis, while lying down or sitting in a comfortable position. They can also be listened to while falling asleep at night.
Guided meditation recordings are quite cost effective because they can be used over and over again. They are also useful even for people experienced in using meditation for the purposes of relaxation.