The Relaxation Response for Grief & Stress

By Heather Stang, MA, C-IAYT

Posted: February 10, 2014

relaxation response meditation grief

We now have scientific proof that the mind can heal the body.
Dr. Henry Benson Relaxation Revolution: The Science and Genetics of Mind Body Healing

One of the most helpful relaxation techniques I have encountered is called the Relaxation Response. Coined by Dr. Herbert Benson, cardiologist and founder of Harvard’s Benson-Henry Institute for Mind Body Medicine, this practice has been proven time and again to lower stress levels, reduce blood pressure, and increase well-being. In fact, the Relaxation Response is the antidote to the fight-flight-freeze response we experience when stressed. Dr. Benson’s research has shown that regular practice of the Relaxation Response can even repair cells damaged by stress.

Casizoid’s Guide to the Best Online Casinos in New Zealand for September 2024

Welcome to the ultimate guide to the best online casinos in New Zealand for September 2024, brought to you by Casizoid! As the world of online gambling continues to evolve, it’s crucial for players to stay updated on the latest trends, offerings, and opportunities in the industry. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a newcomer looking to dip your toes into the exciting world of online casinos, this guide is your go-to resource for navigating the diverse landscape of virtual gaming platforms.

In this article, we will delve into the top online casinos that cater specifically to players in New Zealand, highlighting their unique features, game selections, bonuses, and overall user experience. From analyzing the latest trends shaping the online casino scene to providing expert insights on maximizing your gaming experience, we’ve got you covered. So, buckle up and get ready to explore the best online casinos that New Zealand has to offer in September 2024!

Top-Rated Online Casinos in New Zealand for September 2024

Welcome to Casizoid’s Guide to the Best Online Casinos in New Zealand for September 2024. This month, our team of experts has carefully evaluated and ranked the top online casinos available to players in New Zealand, taking into consideration factors such as game variety, bonuses, user experience, and customer service.

Our top picks for September 2024 include:

  • 1. Lucky Kiwi Casino – Known for its generous welcome bonus and wide selection of pokies and table games.
  • 2. Kiwi Jackpot Palace – Offers a thrilling collection of progressive jackpot games and a seamless mobile gaming experience.
  • 3. All Kiwi Slots – Specializes in slot games with high-quality graphics and frequent promotions for players.

Whether you’re a seasoned player or new to online casinos, these recommended sites provide a safe and exciting gaming environment for players in New Zealand. Happy spinning and good luck!

Exclusive Bonuses and Promotions at New Zealand Online Casinos

Welcome to Casizoid’s Guide to the Best Online Casinos in New Zealand for September 2024. As the year progresses, the online casino landscape in New Zealand continues to evolve, offering players an array of exciting options. Our team has carefully curated a list of the best New Zealand casinos 2024 to help you navigate through the vast selection available.

When it comes to choosing the best online casino in New Zealand, factors such as game variety, bonuses, payment options, and customer service are crucial. The best New Zealand casinos 2024 featured in our guide excel in these areas, ensuring a top-notch gaming experience for players. From classic table games to cutting-edge slots, these casinos offer a diverse range of options to suit every player’s preferences.

Whether you are a seasoned player or new to the world of online casinos, our guide to the best New Zealand casinos 2024 will provide you with valuable insights to make informed decisions. Stay updated with the latest trends, promotions, and gaming offerings in the online casino industry in New Zealand by referring to our comprehensive guide.

Latest Trends and Innovations in the Online Casino Industry

Welcome to Casizoid’s Guide to the Best Online Casinos in New Zealand for September 2024. This month, we have carefully curated a list of top-rated online casinos that cater to players from New Zealand. Our selection criteria include factors such as game variety, user experience, bonuses and promotions, payment options, and customer support.

1. Spin Casino: Known for its wide range of high-quality games and generous bonuses, Spin Casino is a popular choice among New Zealand players. With a user-friendly interface and reliable customer support, this casino offers a seamless gaming experience. 2. Jackpot City: For those seeking big wins and exciting jackpot games, Jackpot City is a top recommendation. This casino features a rewarding loyalty program and a variety of payment options for convenient transactions. 3. LeoVegas: With a strong focus on mobile gaming, LeoVegas provides a cutting-edge casino experience on smartphones and tablets. Players can enjoy a diverse selection of games and exclusive bonuses at this reputable online casino.

Safe and Secure Payment Methods for New Zealand Players

Welcome to Casizoid’s guide to the best online casinos in New Zealand for September 2024. We have carefully curated a list of top-rated online casinos that offer an exceptional gaming experience to players from New Zealand. Whether you are a fan of slots, table games, live dealer games, or specialty games, these recommended casinos have something for everyone.

Our list includes online casinos that are licensed, regulated, and offer a wide range of secure payment options for Kiwi players. Additionally, these casinos feature generous welcome bonuses, ongoing promotions, and loyalty programs to enhance your gaming journey. With a focus on user experience, game variety, and customer support, these online casinos stand out as the best options for players in New Zealand looking for top-quality gaming entertainment.

Tips for Maximizing Your Wins at New Zealand Online Casinos

Welcome to Casizoid’s Guide to the Best Online Casinos in New Zealand for September 2024. As we step into the final quarter of the year, the online casino scene in New Zealand continues to thrive with exciting options for players. Our team has meticulously researched and curated a list of top-notch online casinos that offer a premium gaming experience, lucrative bonuses, and a wide range of games to cater to every player’s preferences.

1. SpinPalace Casino: Known for its impressive collection of games, SpinPalace Casino stands out as a preferred choice for New Zealand players. With a user-friendly interface, generous bonuses, and reliable customer support, this casino ensures a seamless gaming experience for both newcomers and seasoned players.

2. JackpotCity Casino: For those seeking big wins and a thrilling gaming experience, JackpotCity Casino is a top recommendation. This reputable casino offers a diverse selection of progressive jackpot games, secure banking options, and a rewarding loyalty program that keeps players coming back for more.

As we wrap up our exploration of the best online casinos in New Zealand for September 2024, it’s clear that the gaming landscape continues to evolve with exciting advancements and offerings. Whether you’re a seasoned player or just starting out, the options available cater to a diverse range of preferences and interests. From top-notch game selections to generous bonuses and secure payment methods, the casinos featured in our guide are sure to provide endless entertainment and opportunities to win big. Stay tuned for future updates as we keep you informed on the latest developments in the world of online gambling in New Zealand!

In my experience, bereaved people in my groups feel the benefit of the Relaxation Response after just one attempt. I believe this is because when we are grieving we rarely take time out for ourselves until we are encouraged to do so. In fact, I believe this is the case even when we are not grieving. Grief can be a wake-up call to manage our stress – to relieve our suffering now and improve our health for the future.

Grief & Stress

It is no surprise that grief ranks high on the Holmes and Rahe Stress Scale. Death of a spouse ranks the highest- 100 life change units – and death of a close family member is not far behind at 63. Not that you can put a number on grief, mind you. These numbers are a technique to measure how stress affects health – not to imply that there is a hierarchy to loss.

If you are grieving, you don’t need me to tell you that grief is accompanied by an entourage of stressors. You probably know firsthand the impact loss has on your physical, emotional, and mental well-being. It is very important during this time that you take care of your body. Your physical health will influence how you feel, not just in your body but in your mind, too.

So where do you begin? When I work with grief support groups or individuals I often start with the Relaxation Response. You do not need to have any particular physical capability, nor do you need any fancy equipment. The technique is very simple and easy to memorize. You do not need to have any special belief system, although you can incorporate your spirituality into this meditation.

Exercise: The Relaxation Response

Preparation: Find a quiet space where you will not be disturbed. Sit in a comfortable position, or lay down on a mat or blanket, and close your eyes.

  1. Beginning at your feet, move your awareness up your body inviting each group of muscles to relax, all the way to the crown of your head.
  2. Notice each inhale and each exhale. Start to follow the pattern of your breath.
  3. As you exhale, silently repeat a word or short phrase. Repeat this each time you exhale. You can choose a neutral word such as “one,” an encouraging word such as “peace” or “relax.” You can also choose a short prayer or mantra, such as “Shalom,”  “Om,” “Let go, let God,” or any other phrase that feels right to you.
  4. When you get distracted, or forget to repeat your word, simply start again. This is a normal part of the process, and it is important that you do not beat yourself up for getting off track. Simply trying to stay focused is enough.
  5. Repeat this for 10 to 20 minutes.

Closing: When you have finished, you may wish to sit in silence for a few minutes before returning to your daily activities. If you keep a Journal, this will be a good time to record your experience.

Practice Suggestions:

  • Practice this technique for 20 minutes a day, even if you split it into 2 ten minute sessions.
  • It is better to practice five minutes a day every day than 30 minutes once a week.
  • If possible do not practice within two hours after a meal.
  • You may also practice the Relaxation Response during other activities, such as while you are walking, running, gardening or knitting. Simply pay attention to your breath and body and repeat your word during any repetitive motion.

Heather Stang, MA, C-IAYT

About the author

Heather Stang, M.A. is the author of Living with Grief and the guided journal, From Grief To Peace. She is the creator of the Mindfulness & Grief System that is featured in the Handbook of Grief Therapies (2023) and is the founder of Awaken, a mindfulness-based online grief support group. Heather also hosts the Mindfulness & Grief Podcast, and offers mindfulness-based grief support online through her organization, the Mindfulness & Grief Institute. She holds a Masters degree in Thanatology (Death, Dying, and Bereavement) from Hood College in Maryland, and is a certified Yoga Therapist. She currently lives in Falling Waters, WV.

You might also like

Get the compassionate support you need plus mindfulness-based tools to navigate life after loss.



Meditation | Journaling | Self-care | Sharing