explore the science of deep relaxation

PRACTICE NOW

In this deeply restorative practice, we'll release tension through a short gentle supine warm-up movement and then settle into an extended variation on Constructive Rest, which is a position that comes from the Alexander Technique. This variation may be more comfortable, and less straining, for some of us than Savasana. Some of us may just prefer it on some days. After all, it offers us the rest and reset we are looking for, as it positions us in such a way that passively lengthens and relaxes the psoas muscles, as well as releases tension through the back, neck, and head.

UNRAVELING THE PSOAS

The psoas is a long muscle that connects the legs to the spine. When you feel unsafe, this muscle contracts. In fact, it’s said to be the very first muscle that’s activated if you need to fight, flee, or freeze.

All day long, the nervous system communicates with the psoas and sends information back to the nervous system. Imagine walking down the street and unexpectedly a car honks at you from behind. Most people would be startled, and the fear center would immediately fire up the psoas to move the body to safety.

Similarly, if you’re walking down an uneven hill and it’s hard to keep your footing, that experience of being off balance is perceived by the psoas, and it not only engages to stabilize you, it’s also part of the communication loop that gives your brain the signal that you’re on unsafe ground.

✨When the psoas is constricted, it’s simply hard to sense yourself truly landing on the ground. But when the psoas is supple and pliable, it allows you to feel grounded—like you belong on the earth.✨

However, because the psoas is activated by your fear circuitry and the stress response, it holds a lot of “tension” rather than more straightforward “tightness”. Tension can’t be stretched—it needs time, care, and safety to unravel.

Because it attaches to the midsection, a tight psoas can cause back pain, hip pain, and even hamper digestion. As extreme as it sounds, this muscle can affect so many of the body’s systems that when it’s chronically constricted.

I am so excited to be offering my signature Restorative Yoga Teacher Training again live online this year with expanded content and six incredible expert teachers.

Join me Thursday, November 9 for a FREE workshop + giveaway: THE SUPPLE PSOAS & THE SCIENCE OF NEUROLOGICAL RELAXATION. This free workshop will explore the psoas and its relationship to stress and relaxation as well as digestion, sleep, and anxiety. You’ll experience a short restorative practice that will weave together mindful slow-flow yoga, restoratives, and conscious relaxation.