In this session we encourage the body to relax by tensing the muscles. It sounds backwards, right? However, it really works!

It works by teaching the muscles to re-learn what a relaxed state is, by showing it the opposite. As we are mindfully participating in this duality of “on” vs “off” we become more sensitive to the differences.

The body responds to stress with muscle tension, which can cause pain or discomfort. In turn, tense muscles relay to the body that it’s stressed. That keeps the cycle of stress and muscle tension going. Progressive muscle relaxation helps break this cycle by reducing muscle tension and general mental anxiety. People who suffer from insomnia often report that practicing progressive muscle relaxation at night helps them fall asleep.

Don’t worry, you can do this lying down or seated and it’s not strenuous at all, but you will feel wonderful afterwards!

Let me know if you tried this in the comments and importantly, how you felt afterwards?