Stress reduction videos

Part 1 of 4 - Introduction

This session includes an explanation of why these techniques are important for us all. It also shares how they can assist us in coping with stress and improving the quality of our lives.

Part 2 of 4 - Harvard Relaxation Response

This session includes an introductory daily practice to bring out the Relaxation Response. It uses a simple Mindfulness breath and body meditation exercise for stress reduction and deep relaxation.

Part 3 of 4 - Stress Management

This session includes Stress Management – A three-minute breathing practice. It helps you let go of overanalyzing and associating yourself with thoughts. This tool can be used before, during and after a stressful or traumatic experience. It can help diffuse its impact on the mind and body.

Part 4 of 4 - Deep Conscious Sleep

This session includes a 15-minute deep relaxation practice. It can help reduce stress and sleep disorders, cultivate awareness, and a meditative state.

Why UHN Created These Resources:

University Health Network (UHN) Wellness programs are designed to reach out to all hospital employees, physicians, volunteers and students, but their focus is the front-line clinical staff, the organization’s largest group of staff. Noting that shift work, often long commutes and caring for complexly sick individuals makes the provision of wellness programs to this group a challenge, the wellness centre staff, with external help, created virtual wellness programs that UHN staff can access from anywhere, 24/7.

Thank you to the UHN Computer User Support Program for creating these videos, specifically Roland Karkada and Tricia Pariag-Sadko; participants Elise Manera, Irene Wright and Gio Cumming; Wellness Manager Alison Cocking and Michael Apollo, the program's "creator".

Additional resources

Managing stress. Learn how to manage your reactions to stress and protect your well-being.