TENSION AND RELAXATION

Draw a picture of tension. This can be an abstract design or doodle. It can be a symbolic portrait or cartoon of yourself in a state of tension.

Let your tension speak, and write down what it says. Let it tell you how it feels, what causes it, and what you can do about it.

Lie down or sit in a comfortable chair. Starting at your feet, tense them up as much as possible and then let go completely. Tense and relax your feet, legs, and torso. Then tense and relax your shoulders, neck, arms, and hands. Repeat this with your head and face. Enjoy being relaxed.

After you have experienced relaxing fully, draw a picture of relaxation. This can be an abstract design, a doodle, or a picture of yourself being relaxed.

Benefits: This activity increases your awareness of the difference between relaxation and tension. Often we become so habituated to tension we are unaware of it until its effects show up in particular parts of the body. This exercise will help you experience your tension level, and provide a means to relax quickly and effectively.