Relaxation stands quite generally for a release of tension, a return to equilibrium.

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In the sciences, the term is used in the following ways:

• Relaxation (physics), and more in particular:
  • Relaxation (NMR), processes by which nuclear magnetization returns to the equilibrium distribution
  • Dielectric relaxation, the delay in the dielectric constant of a material
  • Vibrational energy relaxation, the process by which molecules in high energy quantum states return to the Maxwell-Boltzmann distribution
  • Chemical relaxation methods, related to temperature jump
  • Relaxation oscillator, a type of electronic oscillator

In mathematics:

• Relaxation (approximation), a technique for transforming hard constraints into easier ones
• Relaxation (iterative method), a technique for the numerical solution of equations
• Relaxation (extension method), a technique for a natural extension in mathematical optimization or variational problems

In computer science:

• Relaxation (computing), the act of substituting alternative program code during linking

In physiology, hypnosis, meditation, recreation:

• Relaxation (psychology), the emotional state of low tension
• Relaxation technique, an activity that helps a person to relax
• Relaxation can induced using breathing techniques. Long exhalation creates a relaxed pose. Making the temple of head and the upper lips relaxed helps keep a relaxed state.

In ecclesiastical law:

• relaxation in person, transfer of a condemned person so that secular authorities execute a death sentence