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.