Jane Madders

Jane Madders (; c. 1909–1990) was a British physiotherapist, health educator and author known for her expertise in relaxation techniques. After receiving training in physical relaxation during the late 1920s, Madders developed an interest in using her skills to assist pregnant women; she taught relaxation skills at antenatal classes and midwife courses, and published a book of exercises for women in 1955.

Madders organized a "family club" for mothers and children in the early 1950s, which helped mothers learn parenthood skills through group discussions and lectures while their children played; it was considered to be the first formal children's play group in the United Kingdom. During the 1960s, Madders was senior lecturer for a college course in "Health Education and Personal Relationships" that was unique for its time in Britain. She taught relaxation techniques at a migraine clinic and conducted research into the effectiveness of relaxation training in helping migraine patients.

After supporting the creation of the first relaxation charity in Britain and broadcasting a successful series of radio talks on ''You and Yours'' in 1972, Madders went on to publish three books on relaxation techniques, including ''Stress and Relaxation'' (1979), which was translated into multiple languages. She continued to teach classes after retirement. Scholar Ayesha Nathoo notes that Madders was a key figure in the development of British public perception of relaxation as "a therapeutic skill that required professional instruction" during the 20th century. Provided by Wikipedia