In an effort to take
the “manic” out of “Monday,” this weekly post explores techniques, issues,
latest research, and other thoughts on meditation. Nancy facilitates a weekly
meditation group at The Awakening Center. For more information, contact her at
773.929.6262, extension 17 or nancyhalltac@gmail.com
Meditation often brings relaxation to the body. Jaws and
fists unclench; brows become smooth. And something new experiences can happen
when the shoulders loosen--the heart opens up.
We often carry our burdens in our shoulders. Without even realizing
it, they creep closer and closer to the ears. This tension-related shrugging
also pulls the shoulders forward, drawing the area around the heart back. The
shoulders bear our burdens and protect the heart.
At the weekly meditation group at The Awakening Center, before
embarking on any guided imagery, I take participants through a progressive
relaxation of the body. This is so important because if the body is held in a
state of “readiness” and hypervigilance, the meditation experience becomes very
narrow. We cannot allow our awareness to expand if we’re in a defended posture.
Additionally, important information can be gathered by noticing which body
parts don’t soften so easily. What is being communicated? What needs extra kind
attention?
When we get to the shoulders, I usually instruct participants
to allow them to gently drop down and back. Allowing the shoulders to loosen
down releases the burden. Slightly back opens the heart area. While this
opening of the heart might be challenging and sometimes downright unsafe in the
“real” world, I hope that the group is a safe place to experiment with the
experience.
Folks who have experienced hurt and trauma heal through
building a sense of safety. Within the group, they can practice opening the
heart—even just a little bit—without worrying that it will be stomped. They
learn to trust their instincts and can begin opening the heart to loved ones—and
even to themselves.
Enjoy your practice.
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