By Cherie Spellman
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October 5, 2024
Have you ever said to yourself, “Wow, I didn’t realize I was tense there!” Have you ever gotten a massage and said, “Ouch! I didn’t even know how painful and tense that area was!” It’s not just you. Most of us are walking through life having tuned out our bodies. We have lost connection to our bodies for multiple reasons. Sometimes it’s too overwhelming to turn our attention to our bodies. Sometimes, we are so busy that we never take the time out to notice ourselves. This lack of connection can cause a variety of symptoms and problems. Being out of tune with your body can cause chronic pain, anxiety, rapid thoughts, inability to relax and sleep, and more. Early in my career, I learned an exercise that Cognitive-Behavioral therapists teach as one of the most effective ways to decrease anxiety. I have since come to realize that it has many more benefits. You may have practiced it in a yoga class to deepen relaxation. Clients often ask me what they can do to help fall asleep, to relieve stress and tension, to stop clenching their jaw or tightening other muscles, or decrease anxiety, or to improve their connection to their body. In our fast-paced, hectic lives, stress and tension can easily take a toll on our physical and mental well-being. It builds up without our awareness. We soon forget what being relaxed feels like. Our constant state of being is tense. In the pursuit of a healthier and more balanced lifestyle, it's crucial to incorporate relaxation techniques into our daily routines. The practice of Progressive Muscle Relaxation (PMR) can help foster mind-body connection, help teach your body how to relax, decrease stress, and improve sleep. This deeply relaxing practice is easy to learn and can work wonders in reducing stress, promoting better sleep, and enhancing overall wellness.I will explore what PMR is, talk about its benefits, and provide a step-by-step guide.
