How can relaxation therapies improve my well-being?

Most relaxation therapies are based on the premise that the mind and body are interconnected, and physical health and emotional well being are closely linked. Not only can certain mind/body therapies increase the brain’s morphine-like pain relievers, called endorphins and enkephalins, which are associated with a happy, positive feeling—these therapies may improve your quality of sleep, your ability to concentrate and be productive, and your personal relationships. One small study of several different relaxation modalities found a 42 percent improvement in self-reported sleep complaints after one year of practicing relaxation therapies. There are also fascinating reports that mind/body exercises when used with touch therapies (bodywork and massage) influence psychological function and the physiological benefits of these techniques extend for hours and even days.