Relaxation is considered a luxury by many people. This is simply NOT TRUE! We require relaxation to function well, maintain health and retain flexibility, both mentally and physically.

Just as tension reduces the circulation of blood, which impairs the physical healing process, tension also causes a restriction in the flow of energy on all levels of our being. Whatever your beliefs concerning the different levels of our being, it is clear that any restriction I the flow of energy may not serve our highest needs. Relaxation is the method by which we release restrictions o all levels and is our first step in the healing process.

While tension may affect us on many different levels and in differing degrees, we experience two basic types of tension.

INTENTIONAL
Physical exertion and mental concentration are short-term, goal oriented applications of our potentials.

UNINTENTIONAL
These tensions may be habitual responses or reactions to our situation, engaging the fight or flight instinct. Fear for survival or the anticipation of negative consequences are the basic motivators in these reactions.

Fear causes tension;
Tension causes disease;
Is relaxation optional?

We have been blessed with an instinct for survival called Fight or Flight. This instinct has aided us to survive and evolve as a species. In our lives we analyze and react to every event we encounter. Our ability to do this varies with each person and changes with mood, experience, etc.

When we choose to relax, we must feel safe within the environment and confident with our abilities. I suggest we allow ourselves to relax to the degree appropriate to the situation, as this immediately confirms our abilities and the safety of the situation.

While driving, we relax physically, allowing our minds to focus on the task of driving, fully alert and able to respond quickly and correctly to any situation.

While waiting in line at the store we can deal with impatience by using the time for relaxation and allowing ourselves enhanced energy for life.

When we release energy restrictions at any level, we regain the use of that energy to focus toward our goals and we gain a certain peace I the increasing awareness of our abilities.