Relaxation and meditation

• meditation 
• guided imagery 
• hypnosis or hypnotherapy 
• biofeedback 
• mindfulness
• progressive muscle relaxation

Yoga, t'ai chi, Pilates, can also involve elements of relaxation and meditation. So too can massage and reflexology.

Read our two-part explainer on holistic care with Dr Agne Straukiene

Relaxation and meditation and MS

Relaxation techniques can help people with MS manage stress and anxiety, as well as fatigue. They could help you get a better night's sleep.  

Relaxation methods are generally low risk. But speak to your health care team first if you've had a serious psychiatric condition, such as schizophrenia, severe depression or severe anxiety. 

Relaxation methods are a complementary therapy, so they can be used alongside conventional medicines, not instead of them. 

Relaxation is a skill

Relaxation is a skill, so it needs practice. It's not the same as just resting the body or the mind (like, for example watching TV might rest only the body). And it's not the same as sleeping.   

There are lots of different ways to find this kind of relaxation. The NHS Inform website has some videos and ideas for some relaxation methods. 

And our online fatigue management course includes mindfulness techniques. 

Relaxation and meditation in the UK

Relaxation and meditation practitioners aren’t regulated in the UK and aren’t legally required to have any specific qualifications. 

But lots of different practitioners are registered with the Complementary and Natural Healthcare Council. To be registered they have to follow certain professional standards.