Life in the modern world is full of tension. With society becoming more competitive, pressures to stay on top or be in the mainstream pushes one to over-exert. These excessive efforts, in turn, cause tensions which become manifest in emotional and psychological disorders. Clearly, the quality of life is negatively affected. Yet, rest and relaxation as an essential activity is often ignored and simply pushed aside in the rush of things to do, real or imagined. Taking time off for rest and relaxation is imperative for a more relaxed life as it re-energizes both body and mind, changes to a positive outlook, and improves learning and memory function. In addition, a more relaxed life leads to good health, which in turn, leads to productivity. Major Self-Relaxation Techniques There are various ways of relaxation lumped into two general categories: The more active relaxation by way of sports, recreation, and leisure activities; and the passive relaxation such as massage, biofeedback, and self-relaxation. In a busy world, self-relaxation offers the best opportunity anytime anywhere. Below are some techniques you can do yourself. Autogenic Relaxation (AT). A form of self-hypnosis, AT is a self-relaxation and self-regulation technique where you tell your body to do your bidding. This relaxation technique aims to reduce stress through the use of a standard formula using positive verbal cues (e.g. peace, love) and affirmations to relax the mind and muscle tensions.