body
People often take their body for granted. We forget it is our physical vessel. The only shell carrying us through our human existence. Instead we push our body to its limit.
Repeated or extended periods of stress negatively impacts our body. Over time this can lead to muscle pain/tension, breathing difficulties, heart disease, diabetes, gastrointestinal and/or reproduction problems. Conversely, being touched (such as through the medium of massage) encourages our parasympathetic system to create a more healthy and balanced state in our body.
We can learn to look after our body better and help it combat the impact of stress.
soulmindbody.space can help.
how is your body?
We rarely focus on how our body feels unless we are ill or in pain. As such, we don’t often notice the gradual build up of tension in our body. A good way to check in with this is by doing a body scan, taking time to notice how our body feels. We can also do muscle relaxation exercises (such as the one below) to help alleviate this tension.
muscle relaxation
Find a quiet space. Sit comfortably on a chair and close your eyes if possible. Take three deep breaths in and out. Shift your attention to your left foot.
Notice how the foot feels. Squeeze the muscles in this foot as tightly as possible. Imagine trying to pick up a tennis ball from the floor with your foot. After a few seconds stop and relax this foot completely. Allow your left foot to rest gently on the ground. Notice the sensations in this foot now.
Shift your attention to your right foot and repeat these steps.
Gradually work your way up the body. Tensing and relaxing the muscles in your left and right leg, stomach, hands, arms, shoulders and finally your face. Contort your face as much as possible before relaxing your facial muscles.
Take three more deep breaths in and out. Open your eyes when you are ready.
Practice cultivating this healthy habit.