Holistic Relaxation

Looking good can be achieved by feeling good. Each individual has their own meaning and definition for well-being, but it's important to learn what works best for you.

We've all be told that exercise will keep us healthy, but exercise is also the means to connect and improve our bodily functions. The more 'in tune' we are with our bodies, the better it will operate.

Exercise will indeed improve our overall health, but the real benefit is in self awareness. When we are aware, we will gain increased energy, mental clarity, fitness and prevent injuries. Learning how our bodies work and proper breathing, is the key to well being, longevity and overall good health.

Our body is a huge memory bank. Each movement is logged, which becomes habit or behavior. If you have good posture, that will become better. Poor posture just gets worse. When stress is evident, we feel it in our muscles by way of tension. Headaches, muscle aches. If we don't release this stress and tension, it will stay logged within our bodies.

The best way to rid this from our bodies to allow for health and vitality. Learning a relaxation exercise is a simple way to do this. This provides deep relaxation, body connection, awareness and increases the flow of energy in your body.

This exercise can be done while sitting in a chair or lying on your back:

* Begin by making sure the small of your back is firmly pressed against the back of the chair and your feet are firmly on the floor. Focus upon your body as it breathes.

* Where in your body does your inhale begin?

* As you exhale, let it seep out of your nose as fast or as slow as your body lets it go.

* Each released exhale is a direct experience of how to "let go."

* Each time you exhale relax your body, just let go of your body and allow it to sink deeper into your chair.

* Start at your head and relax all the muscles in your face one by one. Continue down your body until you reach your feet.

* Allow the surface beneath you to completely support your weight as you let go.

Be aware that breathing in this way may make you lightheaded. Please take care of your needs and do not continue if you feel uncomfortable.

Source: About.com:Holistic Healing