The present invention relates to a method for reducing stress or promoting relaxation in a person is disclosed herein. The method includes the use of a deflatable cushion which has an attachment for a vacuum pump and includes positioning the person in need upon the cushion so that the cushion extends at least the length of the persons torso, eliminating a sufficient amount of air from the cushion so that the cushion at least partially envelops the person, and keeping or retaining the person in the enveloping cushion for a sufficient time for reducing the stress or producing relaxation.
