International Relaxation Day
Welcome
Welcome to International Relaxation Day which is held annually on the 15th August. A day to relax or choose to learn new relaxation techniques. Or perhaps take some time out in a busy day to relax.
The Centre for Positive Psychology, International Academy for Professional Development Ltd is a supporter of International Relaxation Day and the conference.
What are relaxation techniques?
Relaxation techniques are methods to help bring about the body’s “relaxation response,” which is characterised by slower breathing, lower blood pressure, and a reduced heart rate. The relaxation response is the opposite of the stress response.
What’s involved for International Relaxation Day?
International Relaxation Day is an opportunity to reflect and share the importance of relaxation and how people, families, organisations and communities can learn about applying relaxation in their daily lives and routines. Social media can be used to share what methods you have found useful to aid relaxation. You can use the hashtags: #InternationalRelaxationDay #InternationalRelaxationDay2025 #Relaxation
Visit the International Relaxation Day website for more information.
If National Relaxation Day is recognised in your country then you can use the hashtag: #NationalRelaxationDay
International Relaxation Day Conference
We support the annual free conference held on International Relaxation Day. Our Directors and consultants often speak at the conference.
The video above is a 9 minute introduction to International Relaxation Day and the conference. It ends with a 10 minute nature based sound of birds relaxation section.
Conference Theme: Relaxation for All: Skills for Health and Wellbeing in Daily Life
Depending upon your time zone, the conference is held on 14th & 15th August, 2026
15th August, 2026: Start Time: 20:45 Auckland, NZ; 16:45 Shanghai, China;10:45 CET; 09:45 London, BST; 04:45 EDT, New York, USA; (NB. 14th August: 22.45 Honolulu)
Location: Virtual. Conference held on Zoom & YouTube
Cost: Free event
Conference: Programme
Conference: Speakers
The theme for the third International Relaxation Day Online Conference is Relaxation for All: Skills for Health and Wellbeing in Daily Life. The conference will focus on practical, accessible and evidence-informed relaxation approaches that can support health, reduce stress and enhance wellbeing across everyday life.
The Conference co-chairs are Prof Stephen Palmer PhD and Dr Siobhain O’Riordan PhD who are both Chartered Psychologists. Nikki Ayles is a team member who assists in the event.