a thorough concentration that the meditator becomes unaware of any outside stimulation and reaches a different state of consciousness. Biofeedback : It is a procedure to monitor and reduce the physiological aspects of stress by providing feedback about current physiological activity and is often accompanied by relaxation training. Activity . Which of the following coping behaviours are problem-focused?
Why? Discussing your problem with a friend. Feeling sorry for failing in an examination. Finding fault with classmates for poor marks in tests.
Hiding examination results from parents. Blaming friends for bad habits. Reading essential books for the annual examination. Making efforts to improve one’s performance after a setback.
Missing school when assignments not completed. Discuss the answers with your classmates and teacher. Biofeedback training involves three stages : developing an awareness of the particular physiological response, e.g. heart rate, learning ways of controlling that physiological response in quiet conditions; and transferring that control into the conditions of everyday life.
Creative Visualisation : It is an effective technique for dealing with stress. Creative visualisation is a subjective experience that uses imagery and imagination. Before visualising one must set oneself a realistic goal, as it helps build confidence. It is easier to visualise if one’s mind is quiet, body relaxed and eyes are closed.
This reduces the risk of interference from unbidden thoughts and provides the creative energy needed for turning an imagined scene into reality. Cognitive Behavioural Techniques : These techniques aim to inoculate people against stress. Stress inoculation training is one effective method developed by Meichenbaum. The essence of this approach is to replace negative and irrational thoughts with positive and rational ones.
There are three main phases in this : assessment, stress reduction techniques, and application and follow- through. Assessment involves discussing the nature of the problem and seeing it from the viewpoint of the person/client. Stress reduction involves learning the techniques of reducing stress such as relaxation and self-instruction. Exercise : Exercise can provide an active outlet for the physiological arousal experienced in response to stress.
Regular exercise improves the efficiency of the heart, enhances the function of