From Stress to Structure: Navigating Tension in Your Body

In the latest episode of the Move Nourished podcast, Alyssa and Forrest delve into how tension in our bodies, often viewed negatively, can play a crucial role in movement and bodily functions.

Listen on your favourite podcast player:

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Destigmatizing Tension

"Tension has become a dirty word when we talk about the body and movement," says Alyssa. Forrest explains, "Tension is the somaticization of stress," highlighting that while we notice its negative impacts, tension is essential for physiological responses.

The Role of Tension in Movement

Forrest points out that tension is vital: “Tension helps us meet and resist physical forces like gravity.” Alyssa adds, humorously, “Even the noodle in the car lot has a little tension.”

Redistribution and Allostasis

Redistributing tension is vital. Alyssa states, "Understanding that tension can work for or against us is crucial." Forrest discusses allostasis, describing it as achieving balance through constant change, unlike the fixed balance of homeostasis.

Sources of Tension

The hosts identify key sources of excessive tension:

- Psychological Stress

- Poor Body Mechanics

- Isolated and Repetitive Movements

- Lack of Rest and Recovery

- Unexpressed Movements and Emotions

Identifying these sources helps manage unnecessary tension.

Managing Functional Tension

To manage functional tension, Alyssa suggests two main strategies:

1. Expression - Channel tension into physical activities or artistic expressions.

2. Relaxation - Use methods like guided muscle relaxation and tension drops.

Practical Tips

Alyssa summarizes the key points with actionable takeaways:

- Move more in diverse ways.

- Integrate isolated exercises with compound movements.

- Prioritize sleep and recovery.

- Be intentional about warmups and cooldowns.

- Express your emotions.

- Consider magnesium supplementation to help manage tension.

What's Next?

The episode concludes with a teaser for the next topic: holding patterns. Forrest and Alyssa promise to explore these deeply entrenched tension patterns and offer practical advice for addressing them.

Stay tuned for the next episode of the Move Nourished podcast, where Alyssa and Forrest continue exploring our body’s tension, structure, and movement.

For support in healing from chronic conditions arising from an excess of tension, check out the Regeneratrix Program