One of the challenges of today’s society is that, in my opinion, we were never meant to have to deal with so much input, so much of the time. The great convenience of computers and mobile devices in this communication age has also become a perpetual contributor to our stress.
One possible solution would be to get rid of all of our new fangled electronics and opt for a simpler lifestyle. This might not be a workable option for those of us unwilling or unable to move to an ashram and completely give up our modern lifestyle. The rest of us must come up with solutions that we can work into our already busy lives. Network Spinal Analysis and Somato-Respiratory Integration are two amazing tools that are perfect for replacing stress and tension with peace and resourcefulness.
In lieu of or in conjunction with these I recommend three simple tips for stress detox.
1. Pay attention to and direct your breath: This is the simplest way of determining and changing the physiology from one of stress to one of ease. A stressed state is congruent with shallow breath. By intentionally breathing slow and deep, we can direct our own physiology to go into ease. With a bit of practice we can actually use the breath to release tension from areas of the body.
2. Pay attention to and direct your posture: Posture, as discussed in my last post, is another sure indicator of the true state of one’s physiology, from both past and present experiences. Just as the physiology determines posture, so it is that changing your posture will change the physiology. Stress postures include the forward head displacement, loss of neck curve and tucking of the tailbone in conjunction with loss of the low back curve. Consciously bring your head back, arch your back and lift your tailbone – especially when seated. This alone can change your perception from stress to more ease. Couple it with the first tip and you’ve really got something.
3. Pay attention to and direct your thoughts: It doesn’t mean that you have to meditate; it just means that your thoughts, directed into the future or past will create the physiology of whatever you’re thinking about, amounting to anxiety or depression to one degree or another. Stressful thoughts equal stressful body. Hint; practice this one when you’re not stressed and it will be easier to do when you are. If you put this together with the first two tips you will have developed a wonderfully effective strategy to cleanse yourself of accumulated tension and live each moment more peacefully. Who among us couldn’t use a little more of that?
