What are relaxation techniques beneficial for ADHD? 

Relaxation techniques play an important role in managing ADHD symptoms, helping to improve focus, emotional regulation, and stress reduction. Various evidence-based strategies have been shown to enhance executive function, including mindfulness, breathing exercises, and physical activity. These approaches can support ADHD management alongside traditional therapies. 

Effective relaxation strategies for ADHD 

NICE NG87 (2025) recognises mindfulness meditation and breathing exercises as effective tools for managing ADHD-related symptoms. Regular practice helps improve attention control and emotional regulation. NHS (2024) recommends short daily sessions of mindfulness, focusing on breath and body awareness, which can reduce restlessness and improve concentration. Techniques such as deep breathing and box breathing also help children and adolescents with ADHD manage hyperarousal and emotional outbursts, as highlighted by Sheffield Children’s NHS (2023). 

Additionally, progressive muscle relaxation and guided imagery exercises, as outlined by Sheffield Children’s NHS (2023), can help children reduce physical tension and calm the mind, facilitating better focus and relaxation. Physical activities like yoga and movement-based interventions, as noted by PubMed Central (2023), have also been shown to support self-regulation and improve stress resilience in children with ADHD. 

Key takeaway 

Incorporating relaxation techniques such as mindfulness, deep breathing, and progressive muscle relaxation can significantly improve emotional regulation and attention in children and adolescents with ADHD. These techniques, when combined with other ADHD strategies, can help enhance focus, reduce impulsivity, and foster overall well-being. For tailored support, ADHD Certify offers professional assessments and strategies. 

Avery Lombardi, MSc

Author

Avery Lombardi is a clinical psychologist with a Master’s in Clinical Psychology and a Bachelor’s in Psychology. She has professional experience in psychological assessment, evidence-based therapy, and research, working with both child and adult populations. Avery has provided clinical services in hospital, educational, and community settings, delivering interventions such as CBT, DBT, and tailored treatment plans for conditions including anxiety, depression, and developmental disorders. She has also contributed to research on self-stigma, self-esteem, and medication adherence in psychotic patients, and has created educational content on ADHD, treatment options, and daily coping strategies.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the author's privacy. 

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Reviewer

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez is a UK-trained physician with an MBBS and experience in general surgery, cardiology, internal medicine, gynecology, intensive care, and emergency medicine. She has managed critically ill patients, stabilised acute trauma cases, and provided comprehensive inpatient and outpatient care. In psychiatry, Dr. Fernandez has worked with psychotic, mood, anxiety, and substance use disorders, applying evidence-based approaches such as CBT, ACT, and mindfulness-based therapies. Her skills span patient assessment, treatment planning, and the integration of digital health solutions to support mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the reviewer's privacy.