Notice and Release Tension in Your Body

The following is part of  a series of posts detailing the information in my free download 26 Ways to Prepare Your Heart for Labor.

Tension.  I know her well and I'm sure you do too. Sometimes she is a fleeting visitor; other times she parks herself right in that sweet spot where my neck meets my shoulders. Maybe she likes your jaw, or she settles just behind your eyes. Wherever you may find her, Tension is no stranger. Noticing where she is taking up residence in your body, and then releasing her, will bring your awareness inward and deepen the connection to your baby.

First, wherever you are right now, close your eyes and connect with your breath.  Listen to the sound of your inhale and exhale.  Feel your breath as it flows in and out.  In this short time, you may already feel a release of Tension. 

Now bring your awareness to your head. Notice if Tension is there and on your exhale, breath her away. 
Check behind your eyes, and your jaw.  What about your lips and your tongue?  She likes to hid in those places too!  With each exhale, soften and release this one small part of your body.

Slowly, with each breath, scan your entire body... neck.... shoulders.... elbows.... wrists.... fingers.... chest.... belly.....low back.... hips.... 

Stay here in your hips and low back.  Breathe.  This is a favorite hangout for Tension. She likes the extra energy that your hip muscles are expending to support your growing baby.  So notice her here.... then send her on her way with your next breaths.  As many as it takes. 

Keep on scanning your body... knees... ankles..... arches of your feet... toes..... Exhale and soften. Inhale. Exhale and release

Bring your awareness to your baby and breathe here.  Now, send up a prayer of gratitude for the hard work your body is doing and sweet baby you are growing.  Breathe all your love and attention to your child and just be.