What it means
Methods include regular exercise, enough sleep, relaxation breathing, meditation, guided imageryGY-did IM-ij-reeA relaxation method in which a person pictures a calm, pleasant scene in detail, often led by a voice or recording.Full entry , time management, talking with others and limiting caffeine and alcohol. Long-term stress affects blood pressure, sleep, mood and the immune system, so managing it is part of health promotion for clients and nurses.
For the nurse
Teach one or two simple methods the client can use right away, such as slow deep breathing, and ask what has helped them before.
Related terms
coping
The thoughts and actions a person uses to manage stress, problems and strong emotions.
relaxation
A state of calm with less physical and mental tension, or the methods used to reach it.
guided imagery
A relaxation method in which a person pictures a calm, pleasant scene in detail, often led by a voice or recording.
biofeedback
A technique in which a person uses readings from sensors to learn to control body functions such as muscle tension or heart rate.
meditation
A practice of focusing the mind, such as on the breath, a word or an image, to calm thoughts and reduce stress.