"Relaxation" may be best defined as a condition where what was tight is slackened and strain is released. Some of us refer to releasing stress within ourselves by "unwinding" through recreational pursuits.
However the art of conscious Relaxation involves awareness not only of muscular strain but on all levels of the human psyche - physical, emotional and mental. As our inner psychic stress levels are reduced we can anticipate improvement in our total health and well being.
There are simple requirements in our approach to relieving tension. Firstly, by observing our personal reactions to stress; recognising the causes; resolving the difficulties; taking a change of attitude; making a clear self image and then we freely enjoy the increasingly pleasant experiences that occur as we practise of the art of relaxation.
Relaxation time may commence as a discipline but will soon become a pleasure when our feelings are devoid of strain and anxiety. Then conscious Relaxation time offers periods of real refreshment and gives an opportunity for us to become revitalized.
For the ideal practice of perfect muscular Relaxation there are only the simplest needs - privacy in a pleasant and quiet environment, guaranteed half hour free of interruption; a comfortable position seated or lying out on the floor.
During relaxation we follow a simple formula that helps us to become free of past problems and pain. We learn to surrender the old stress habits and in their place establish positive ones and begin to really feel a new sense of control of our mind and emotions that brings a new and wonderful new sense of freedom.
Experiences in Relaxation encapsulate some of the most beautiful and uplifting human states possible. These result from a passive, but directed state of consciousness where we are free to accept the present moment rather than be concerned about past or future. When we are relaxed we are truly "living in the present". In this state we can discover a new relationship with life.
We all benefit by conscious Relaxation and the refreshment and freedom it brings.
We often use the word "Freedom". But what does it mean? Is it freedom from something with the implication that it is an escape? Or is it an idealistic state in itself, towards which we strive?
Freedom is often acclaimed as one of the highest principles man seeks to defend. It deserves some earnest thought as to its meaning and value, and some consideration whether, indeed, it is an achievable goal for man.
In the present context, we surrender our weaknesses to become free of our old habits. We are then free to choose to replace them with strengths. In this manner we gradually assume control over our personalities and enjoy the positive psychological states that follow.
The most delightful states of feeling and of mind are experienced when we are able to consciously relax and surrender personal strain and effort to allow life to flow through us, unimpeded by muscular tension, emotional stress or anxiety of mind.
Relaxation is a wonderfully enjoyable practice.