I have never heard of some of the relaxation methods mentioned here - why not?

Although all of the relaxation exercises and trainings I offer are used widely around the world, some of them have not been widely used in the UK. In many European countries, for example, both autogenic training and progressive muscle relaxation training are supported by the mainstream health system; courses are widely available and often paid for by health care providers. So, they are quite popular and 'household names.' Something similar happened with mindfulness-based stress reduction courses over the last decade in the UK.

I have this particular stress/health issue at the moment.
How quickly can relaxation practice solve this issue?

Of course, you want to know how quickly you can expect results! And I am happy to talk to you about the evidence-based research and other evidence available regarding your particular issue and the relaxation methods I offer; and help you decide which relaxation course to choose. And the nature and context of relaxation practice is
> not like surgery, where something is removed from your body once and for all; instead, it flourishes with regular practice over time.
> complex in its effects on each of us, because our bodymind is complex. There is no way around trying things out for yourself for some time; and with awareness and a readiness to learn. In other words, both scientific-based and anecdotal evidence can help you with deciding what type of relaxation practice/training might work for you. Still, only your personal experience over time will reveal the benefits it has for you.

As a rule of thumb, two to three months of daily practice and learning can give you a good idea of possible benefits regarding your specific issue, as well as your overall welling; and usually, only regular practice will keep these benefits alive.

I really, really liked exercise X that I learned in one of your courses, and it would be so helpful for someone else I know. Can I give it to them?

That's a tricky one. We often think we know what might be helpful for someone else, and our wish to help is sincere, but would our offer be welcome? Appropriate? Most relaxation exercises have rather complex effects on the nervous system and mind and their effects need a bit of monitoring. So, my suggestion would be to think this through and talk to me as well before passing specific training materials on to others.

I don't like courses, group learning, regular commitments, ... are there any videos, apps or CDs you can recommend?

Yes, there are some of those around. And no, I cannot recommend any of them without knowing you a little bit, especially how you respond to various approaches to relaxation practice. For most of us, periods of learning and practising in interpersonal contexts such as courses, one-on-one sessions or with practice buddies are helpful, even necessary for
> learning something new.
> longer-term motivation, for example, around home practice.
> the complex learning journey that relaxation practice involves. For example, with a regular interpersonal context for our practice, you can get help with specific challenges, clarify your understanding of instructions, and also put your experience into a broader perspective.