Name and describe two stress management techniques commonly taught in wellness programs.

• A. Diaphragmatic or deep breathing to reduce arousal; progressive muscle relaxation to reduce muscle tension.
• B. Meditation without any breathing exercises.
• C. Hyperventilation and caffeine consumption.
• D. Only pharmacological interventions.

Answer: (A)

Managing stress in wellness programs usually centers on techniques that lower physiological arousal and ease physical tension. Diaphragmatic or deep breathing helps activate the body’s relaxation response by using the diaphragm, which slows breathing and heart rate and reduces the fight-or-flight arousal. Progressive muscle relaxation complements this by guiding people to systematically tense and then release major muscle groups, decreasing muscle tension and creating a calm body state. Together, these methods give practical, controllable tools to interrupt stress in the moment and promote ongoing relaxation.

The other options don’t fit as well. Meditation can be helpful, but when described as not involving any breathing exercises, it misses a primary mechanism for calming the body. Hyperventilation and caffeine clearly increase arousal, not reduce it. Relying only on pharmacological interventions overlooks the self-help, nonpharmacological focus typical of wellness programs.