Let go of tension, turn your mind off and build awareness with Deep Relaxation
In the state of deep relaxation, tension is released from the body on a physical level, and the mind completely switches off. (Not the same as lying on the couch and watching TV.) Studies have shown that deep relaxation affects us on a genetic level and has profound health benefits such as switching off disease-causing genes, while switching on genes that actively protect against illness. The relaxation response brings your system back into balance: deepening your breathing, reducing stress hormones, slowing down your heart rate and blood pressure, and relaxing your muscles. When practiced regularly, these activities lead to a reduction in your everyday stress levels and a boost in your feelings of joy and serenity. Resting while awake, after having emptied the mind of worrisome thoughts, means reaching a state of true mental repose.
Deep Relaxation practice can include: meditation, breath work, and relaxation techniques such as 61 points, rotating consciousness through the body and point-to-point sweep. Throughout the practice your focus is always inside: on the breath, on the sensations in the body and on the thoughts and reactions in the mind.
Benefits of Deep Relaxation include: boosting the immune system, lowering blood pressure, and relieving fatigue, anxiety and insomnia without medication. Deep Relaxation contributes to an overall feeling of well-being and helps you uncover your natural clarity, right action and peace of mind. Deep Relaxation is a path of welcoming where you are: learning to meet, greet, and receive everything that life brings to you.
You can practice Deep Relaxation from Savasana. It's best to prop yourself anywhere you think you might have discomfort. Here's some ideas for increasing comfort and adding support (you don't have to do them all - but you could try for fun):
- A small roll under the low back for lumbar support
- A bolster under the knees
- A small roll or pillow under each wrist
- A small roll under the neck and/or a pillow under the head
- A small roll under the ankles or under the feet
- Add a sandbag over the pelvis to encourage the hip flexors to let go
- Add a sandbag on each shoulder to encourage releasing tension
- Add a sandbag over the diaphragm to increase breath awareness
- Eye pillow to shut out distractions
- A blanket over the whole body to keep warm