Relaxation techniques provide a means of achieving muscle and mental relaxation
(45, 46). Although there are no
studies of their use among cancer patients,
they are widely recommended. Patients
are trained to focus attention selectively
and intently on induced bodily
states such as relaxation or warmth. In
this way attention may be shifted away
from pain onto states that are incompatible
with it. The methods of Jacobson (45)
and Schultz and Luthe (46) may both be
useful. Not only does relaxation reduce
anxiety and divert attention from distressing
symptoms but it may contribute to a
sense of active participation in treatment
and control over those symptoms.