“Health Psychology Interventions - IResearchNet.” Psychology, Psychology Research net, 14 Jan. 2016, psychology.iresearchnet.com/papers/health-psychology-interventions/.

Michigan State University

Physiological approaches to health psychology: The physiological approach to health psychology focuses on the individual’s biological makeup, behavior and experiences. The goal of treatment in health psychology is to modify variables that affect illness, and therefore incorporate a physiological approach or utilize a combination of a physiological approach with another. Oftentimes, physiological approaches such as biofeedback and relaxation are used in combination with other treatment types. 

Physiological Approaches to Health Psychology

Health Psychology Interventions IResarchNET

Relaxation therapy training has various different protocols, including progressive relaxation therapy.  Relaxation therapy is often used alongside  cognitive-behavioral therapy and focuses on becoming aware of tension within the mind and body. Then, systematic relaxation methods (such as diaphragmatic breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, guided imagery) are used to reduce tension and to change the perception of physical pain.

Relaxation Therapy

Biofeedback is a mind-body technique that uses electronic instruments to measure and provide real-time information about a person's neuromuscular and autonomic activity, such as heart rate or muscle tension. This feedback, typically delivered through visual or auditory signals, helps individuals learn to gain voluntary control over normally involuntary bodily processes. The technique was developed by Gary Schwartz at Harvard University in the early 1970s as a method to combat stress.

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