Movement is great. It is excellent and very healthy to move often. Then there are times to move into stillness and allow tension to naturally release on its own.
The Basic Practice - constructive rest
Constructive rest, sometimes know as 'active rest’ is an extremely effective self-help tool developed through the Alexander Technique program to release excess tension from the body. 1
Posture set-up:
respect your limits, modify where needed
come to lying on your back on a firm surface
can be on the floor or bed
place a towel under the head
to ensure chin is in line with chest
bend the knees; feet are flat; hip width apart
arms can either:
rest on belly, or
out to the sides, bent 90 degrees like goal posts
opens front chest area
approach your body with softness, gentleness and kindness
now stay here for 5 minutes but no more than 20 minutes
allow your body to naturally release tension
can rest in silence or listen to a meditation
Explore the Movement
Part of the Alexander Technique is to give yourself directions in order to become very aware of your movements. Such as:2
lie down on my back
bend my knees
feet are flat
allow my neck to be free
allow my head to ease forward and up
allow my back to lengthen and widen
allow my knees to ease out and away
Everyday Living
Our pets often take frequent rests throughout the day. There is value is giving oneself a little ‘constructive rests’ on a regular basis.
Yoga Practice
The ‘constructive rest’ position is the starting position for bridge pose.
Discover Amazing
I often get caught up in the thinking that I have to fixed something in my body. The ‘constructive rest’ technique provides an alternative pathway. Instead of me forcing a solution, I can use the body’s own intelligence in releasing tension through a regular practice of intentional rest. Discover your body’s own amazing intelligence in releasing tension.
Namaste, the Light in me honors the Light in you
keep moving; keep healthy
be in AWE that your body can move
move in a variety of ways: big, small, wiggle, dance . . .
Disclaimer: Be safe, know your limits and move wisely without causing harm to yourself. Information provided in this newsletter is for you to explore and discover how your body works. It is not to diagnose any medical condition. Please consult with a physician or physiotherapist if you have concerns.
Website: https://www.alexandertechnique.com/constructiverest/
Website: https://www.hilaryking.net/alexander-technique/lying-down-procedure