relaxation

The process or state of becoming calm and free from worry or tension.

• A warm bath helps with relaxation.
• The class teaches breathing techniques for deep relaxation.
• She felt a sense of relaxation after the massage.

Similar words: calm, ease

Opposites: tension, stress

Common phrases: deep relaxation, relaxation techniques, feeling of relaxation

Pleasant rest or activities that help your mind or body recover after work or effort.

• I read for relaxation.
• The holiday gave us time for rest and relaxation.
• After work, he enjoys gardening as a form of relaxation.

Similar words: recreation, leisure, rest

Opposites: work

Common phrases: rest and relaxation, time for relaxation, reading for relaxation

A change that makes rules, limits, or control less strict.

• They welcomed the relaxation of the rules.
• A relaxation of border controls allowed more visitors to enter.
• Businesses called for further relaxation of the restrictions.

How to use it: relaxation of something (The government announced a relaxation of travel restrictions.)

Similar words: easing, loosening

Opposites: tightening

Common phrases: relaxation of rules, relaxation of restrictions, gradual relaxation

A reduction in the tightness or firmness of a muscle or other body part.

• The drug causes muscle relaxation.
• Relaxation of the soft palate can affect breathing.
• The test measured contraction and relaxation of the muscle.

How to use it: relaxation of something (The medicine causes relaxation of the muscles.)

Similar words: loosening

Opposites: contraction, tightening

Common phrases: muscle relaxation, relaxation of tissue, relaxation of muscles

A reduction in how much attention or effort someone gives to something.

• There was no relaxation of effort.
• A brief relaxation of attention led to a mistake.
• The guards could not allow any relaxation of vigilance.

How to use it: relaxation of something (A relaxation of vigilance allowed the error to go unnoticed.)

Similar words: slackening, easing

Opposites: intensification

Common phrases: relaxation of effort, relaxation of vigilance, relaxation of attention