In 2023 Prof Stephen Palmer created an educational and information website to promote International Relaxation Day which is held annually on the 15th August. Dr Siobhain O’Riordan supported Prof Palmer at the well attended first virtual webinar titled: International Relaxation Day: The effectiveness of relaxation techniques across a broad spectrum of physical and psychological health-related issues. This webinar was aimed at the public and health practitioners who had an interest in relaxation techniques and interventions. The webinar was recognised by the Association for Rational Emotive Behaviour Therapy and the International Society for Coaching Psychology for continuing professional development (CPD) of their members. Both organisations support International Relaxation Day.
In subsequent years, Prof Stephen Palmer with Dr Siobhain O’Riordan’s support, have run free, virtual educational conferences supporting International Relaxation Day. Expert speakers from around the world have given presentations on relaxation techniques and mindfulness. At the 2024 International Relaxation Day conference Prof Stephen Palmer with Dr Siobhain O’Riordan discussed the importance of relaxation techniques and also the possibility of setting up Relaxation Clubs. At subsequent professional body conferences and events they have successfully run the clubs or groups for health professionals and the public.
To further the promotion of the benefits of relaxation and meditation techniques which can enhance physical and mental wellbeing, on 26th January 2026, Prof Stephen Palmer and Dr Siobhain O’Riordan launched an unincorporated charitable association, Relaxation UK, with the aim of promoting the benefits all year round and not limited to National and International Relaxation Day. In the same week, Kasia Szymanska was nominated and elected to the Board and became the third trustee. All the trustees are chartered psychologists. To protect the charity’s name, Relaxation UK, a dormant company was set up.
Relaxation UK will be actively involved in both National and International Relaxation Day (IRD). Professor Stephen Palmer will continue to maintain the IRD website on behalf of the Relaxation UK.
In the first week over 60 ‘Friends‘ joined the charity. This is an exciting development. We hope to increase community involvement during 2026. All seminars, lectures and conferences will be free.