The link between stress and psoriasis has long been recognized by both patients and their doctors. Here are some ancient techniques—and some new ones—that may help you relieve stress and boost your body's natural ability to keep psoriasis in check. Pick one that interests you, then check with your doctor before you get started.
The relaxation breath
Breathing is obviously something that happens naturally beginning in the first seconds of life. But many relaxation specialists believe that most adults do not breathe as deeply as they should. Experts explain that how we feel affects how we breathe, and how we breathe can affect how we feel.
Meditation and yoga are just two of the many disciplines that teach focused breathing. In many large cities, you can find classes dedicated solely to breathing techniques. Even in smaller towns, you can usually find yoga, tai chi, or meditation classes that concentrate on breathing exercises. You'll also find plenty of help in your bookstore or online.
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Yoga
This ancient system of relaxation combines an established series of body postures with deep breathing. Yoga comes in many forms. The most common form of yoga is called hatha-yoga, which is said to help cleanse the body of physical, as well as mental, tension. Yoga has become so popular that getting started is easy. Classes are available at all levels; books, tapes, and even TV programs also offer an excellent introduction.
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Tai chi
"Chi" means energy within the body in Chinese. Tai chi is a carefully choreographed series of movements intended to gently move the energy through the body. Those who practice it believe that the benefit comes from regular practice and gradual improvements. Often, classes are taught at centers that teach karate or tae kwan do (both forms of martial arts). Instructional tapes and information about training are readily available online. Or, check out programs at your local "Y" or fitness club.
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Biofeedback
Many bodily responses that we think of as automatic are, in fact, within our control. It just takes some training. Biofeedback uses sophisticated monitors to give you a better understanding of what's going on in your body and trains you to gain a measure of control over it.
Typically, sensors are attached to your body to measure your response to a particular stimulus. The response could be muscle tension or something else such as blood pressure or temperature. Results are relayed back to you, often through a flashing light or beeper. By relaxing tense muscles, you can slow down the light or beeper. Over time, patients develop an awareness of what a reduced amount of tension feels like and how to maintain it.
Since this method requires instruction as well as sophisticated technology, it's best to ask a doctor to recommend someone who specializes in biofeedback training. Or, check www.aapb.org for a practitioner in your area.
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Progressive relaxation
This easily mastered technique can be an option for nearly everyone who carries around stress and tension from everyday life. Through exaggerated tensing and relaxing of muscles throughout your body in a set order, you can help eliminate this extra tension.
Begin by sitting down or lying comfortably on your back in a quiet place, with your arms resting loosely by your sides. Make sure that interruptions like the telephone or family members won't disturb you. Start with the muscles of the head, including the face, and tighten them as much as possible; hold for several counts; then release them completely. Work your way systematically down your body, tensing and relaxing small groups of muscles (neck, shoulders, chest, upper and lower back, etc). Don't forget your hands and feet! Then sit quietly for several minutes.
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