the ML protocol ⌇part 3
T - Is for Tension
Imagine the weight of a thousand untold stories, unsaid words, and unexpressed emotions.
These subtle burdens often anchor us, creating tensions we might not even be consciously aware of.
Life presents challenges – some tiny pebbles, some mammoth boulders. And each one adds a weight, a tension, that we often unconsciously carry with us
This tension nestles into our muscles, our minds, our very essence.
But what if, through the sheer power of breath, we could unlock and release them?
The 'T' in our journey stands for just that.
Your breath is the bridge between your external challenges and your internal resilience. And with each tension release practice, you build this bridge stronger, reminding yourself of the immense strength and calm you house within.
Tension Release: Unveiling the Invisible Chains
① Setting Intent
Create your dedicated space, sit comfortably. Close your eyes and set an intention for this practice. It could be as simple as, “I release the tensions that no longer serve me.”
② Gentle Warm-up
Begin with a few slow neck rotations, shoulder rolls, and wrist circles. This prepares the body for the deeper work ahead.
③ Scan & Acknowledge
Starting from your toes, slowly move your awareness up your body, noting areas of tension – perhaps the tightness in your shoulders, the clench in your jaw, or the furrow in your brow.
④ Palpable Pressure
Now, find three spots on your body where you feel the most tension (often the neck, shoulders, or lower back). Apply gentle pressure with your fingertips while continuing your deep breathing, imagining the tension breaking up and dispersing.
⑤ Deep Inhale, Forceful Exhale
Inhale deeply and slowly for a count of 5, filling every part of your lungs. Then, exhale forcefully through the mouth, as if you're trying to blow out a candle. Imagine the tension breaking apart and leaving your body with each powerful exhale.
⑥ Energetic Release
Picture your tension as a tangible color, perhaps a dense grey. With every exhale, visualize this color lightening, transforming into a radiant hue, flowing away from you, leaving behind tranquility.
⑦ Palming Warmth
Rub your palms together vigorously until they're warm. Gently place them over areas of tension and feel the warmth seep in, further aiding in relaxation.
⑧ Completion & Grounding
After 15 minutes or so, or when you feel the weight lifted, return to your natural breathing. Visualize roots extending from your body into the earth, grounding you, solidifying your release.
♾ ♾ ♾ ♾
Every breath is an opportunity. An opening to let go, to understand, to transcend. Tensions, both known and hidden, find their voice and release through this practice. As the days unfold, tap into this power, remembering that within you lies an ocean of calm, waiting to be unveiled, one breath at a time.
Tension Release is not just a practice but an invitation.
An invitation to shed, to lighten, to breathe easier.
Embrace it wholeheartedly, and let the transformation unfold.
Breathe deep.
Release deeper still.
Leanna xx