We create tension to relax❓
The increased tension and awareness helps the body to relax on the subconscious level.
Yep, crazy as it sounds we increase the tension in our body to help it relax.
Sounds kind of counter intuitive doesn't it?
BUT, give it a try and see
Go on, make a fist, squeeze your fingers around your thumbs and then relax your fingers.
How do your hands feel?
Bit fizzy?
Not convinced?
Take 30 seconds and give it a try - just press play
I could give you loads of scientific facts and links to articles to explain this, but all you need to know is
It is the basic relaxation we use in yoga classes, tense and release, progressive relaxation.
If we asked you to relax, not much happens.
When we increase the tension and the awareness in a specific area, we are taking the consciousness and energy into that body part.
The increased tension and awareness helps the body to relax on the subconscious level.
This principle is used in the energization exercises.
Energization❓
I thought we were relaxing
Ah, yes we are BUT it all relates to consciousness and energy - stick with me and over the next few weeks it will all become clearer.
If you want to learn more about the 15 minute routine that will give you more energy than a triple espresso shot or a bull with wings, you can read what are the energization exercises here.
So, we tense to relax AND to energize?
Yes, we do.
We also tense to meditate.
There are 3 phases to meditation
Relaxation
Concentration
Expansion
In the first phase we relax both the body and mind.
We have a few techniques to help relax the body and one of the most effective is the tense and release that we did at the beginning of this blog.
Want a simple practice to try?
Keep an eye (ear?) on the podcast platform for an upcoming clip from a recent meditation clinic.
Want to join a 4 week to meditation success group?
Got questions?
Post in the comments, join the converstion..............
