The basic principle of Progressive Relaxation is that, one after the other, certain muscle groups (e.g. the hands, shoulders, or toes) are tensed briefly and then willfully relaxed and loosened. Through this, one learns to better differentiate between bodily conditions of relaxation and tension. And a general feeling of relaxation is accomplished.

An important part of relaxation training is slow and steady breathing. The training is progressive, since the pupil learns better with more and more practice how to relax a muscle group after a brief period of tension, learning step by step how to perceive and relax all of the body's important muscle groups.

The progressive muscle relaxation represents a simple, very direct and physical way to learn relaxation. At first, one requires half an hour to conduct the exercise. But with more and more practice, the exercise can be shortened by connecting numerous muscle groups. The practice of rapid relaxation enables the ability to react in stressful situations quickly with relaxation. Dr. Schneiderhan's clinic offers special courses to patients and those interested in learning Progressive Muscle Relaxation according to Jacobson.

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