Autogenic Training

Autogenic training is a meditation that uses repeated phrases to activate the parasympathetic nervous system.  This part of the nervous system helps to lower blood pressure and activate the body's relaxation response.  The parasympathetic nervous system also aides in reducing the stress response.  When the parasympathetic nervous system is active our blood vessels relax in the periphery of the body and our hand temperature warms.  

Autogenic training is a very relaxing activity for most people, but for some, activating the relaxation response can be difficult.  Just like any self care skill, it can take practice.  This is a longer meditation and the whole experience will take about 25 minutes. 

I learned this meditation from the Centers for Mind Body Medicine who has many great resources on their website.  For me participation in their training has been life changing and I encourage you to check out their work using the link above.