The Art of Slowing Down

We hear a lot about the benefits of strength training. Sometimes we definitely do need to push, move, strengthen and grow. Muscles are amazing hormonal and metabolic powerhouses and we all need to move our muscles regularly for health, and to age well.

But we also need to allow ourselves time to stop. To rest. To pay attention to ourselves. In the stillness the quieter (but no less magnificent) systems of the body can do their thing, optimizing digestion, immune and hormonal health. Rest is also essential for cognition (brainpower) and emotional wellbeing. The key is balance. 

Anyone sciencey will know that we exist in a wondrous state of flux; homeostasis maintaining the body’s biological parameters just-so. Sympathetic and Parasympathetic. A web of interrelated constantly communicating chemical and electrical processes.

Anyone yoga-ey will also understand this concept; Sthira and Sukha. Sun (Surya) and Moon (Chandra). Yin and Yang. Activity and recovery. It’s all connected. We’re all talking about the same things, but using different words.

Are you always pushing, striving, trying to change something? Slowing down can feel challenging. In the pause of a restorative practice we aren’t seeking change, just creating the conditions for comfort and acceptance. This can help create balance if you are busy, stressed, recovering or working physically or emotionally hard right now. We settle, and breathe. We notice our holding patterns and pockets of tension. Bit by bit, we learn the art of relaxation. And that is a powerful kind of medicine.