Relaxation techniques are known to provide fibromyalgia sufferers with pain relief and reduce stress that is related to the pain of fibromyalgia. One specific type of relaxation technique is called Relaxation Response (RR). RR is a “quieting of the nervous system” which is another way of saying that it is the opposite of the “fight-or-flight” response that our nervous system gives. These types of relaxation techniques are focused on mindfulness, awareness, breathing practices and meditation. One way to perform this Relaxation Response is by Focused Breathing. This relaxation technique incorporates time with meditation through extended periods of rest in which you only focus on your inhalation and exhalation. A lot of information on how to properly perform Focused Breathing is available. Another technique of RR is meditation. Meditation is roughly defined as a clearing of all stimuli in the mind and a focus on mental negation. Progressive muscle relaxation is also a part of the RR technique. This is where each muscle is tightened and then completely relaxed; the process continues with each connecting muscle until all the muscles have carried out this process. If you’re not feeling up to practicing these types of techniques, it’s good to remember that adequate rest can do wonders for your fibromyalgia. If you feel as if your daily routine influences the symptoms of your condition, consider allocating a time during your day to do absolutely nothing. It may be as long as 20 minutes, but giving yourself a scheduled break from the stressors of your daily life can greatly improve the pains that accompany fibromyalgia.