How did that go for you?
My hypothesis suggests that many of you skipped over the stillness exercise. The fascinating thing is that our minds are excellent at reminding us that pausing for relaxation may actually induce more stress (please read that line again if it sounds confusing).
We have all been there at one time or another- when we have to choose to rest or not rest. When we are being honest with ourselves, we can agree that life flows more easily when we make time for rest, stillness, meditation, yoga, fill in the blank . . . So who's voice is it that insists that studying an extra hour versus doing relaxation is more beneficial? Continue reading . . .
The voice is one that does not come from within us. It is a voice from outside of us reminding us that we must push harder in order to keep up and that rest equals falling behind. We all can hear the truth in this when we read it, yet the only way we can prove to ourselves and our children that doing relaxation is worth doing, is by believing that it is something that will improve all areas of our lives (including homework, school, friendships, sports, family relationships, this list is limitless).
What matters most is the voice that comes from within us - because our bodies never lie. When we are feeling tired, it is time to do relaxation. When we are feeling tight, it is time do relaxation. When we are feeling upset, it is time do relaxation. Here is the kicker - get ready, when we are feeling good, yes, it is time to do relaxation. Our bodies and our children's bodies will reach for healthy and supportive relaxation strategies when they practice relaxation - often.
Wishing you all a relaxing end of summer!
Click here to learn more about our Fall classes and the Stretch What Matters Level 1 Intensive Teacher Training.
Namaste,
Elizabeth
