Releasing Tension

In this alternative to a body scan, we are practicing releasing tension while building our awareness of how we do or do not receive support. This practice can support us in softening and releasing some of what we have been holding onto for too long.

Transcript

Releasing tension, An alternative to a body scan. I love this practice as an alternative to a full body scan. It helps bring awareness to our body without over-focusing on any part. You're welcome to sit, Stand, Or lie down for this practice. The intention of this practice is to become aware of the tension you're holding and to gently begin to release some of that holding and tension. Some practices and practitioners use the language of release all tension. There are those of us who have chronic tension or are experiencing pain or tension in this particular moment, And it can feel defeating when we aren't able to release all of our tension. This practice will not miraculously evaporate tension, But it will help to expand our experience of softening. And releasing. Get settled in whatever shape you are in. Make any adjustments that you need in order to find more comfort and more ease. Do a brief scan of your body and take note of where you feel tension. It might be helpful to label the qualities of sensations. Sharp. Achy, Dawn. Intense, Hot. Spicy. Don't get too wrapped up or concerned with the specificity or the perfection of the labels. And then notice your breath. Notice the quality of your breath. Shallow. Slow. Quick Useful? And now bring awareness to where your body is connected. To support. It might be your feet on the floor. Your body connected to a chair. A couch, A bed. With each exhalation, Invite your body to soften into and across those points of contact. Inviting a sense of being held. Continuously allowing yourself to soften, To sink. And to release holding. And as you release into and across the support, Notice how your breath. Is moving. Without needing to change anything that's happening in your experience. Being an observer. Noticing how easy or challenging it is. To relax and release, And to receive support. Noticing any judgments of yourself, Of your experience. And moving back towards curious, Open awareness. There's nothing wrong with whatever your experience is in this moment. It's simply information for you. Take as much time as you would like. Practicing releasing with the exhales, Receiving support. Whenever you're ready to transition. You can bring movement into the fingers and toes. If you had closed your eyes, You can invite them to open If your eyes were open, Maybe you want to try closing your eyes for a moment and then moving your body in any way that feels easeful. And offering gratitude for yourself for exploring this practice.