Relaxation? Hold on while I scan my brain for the definition of that word. I vaguely recognize it...
Before the life of a stay at home mom, I was a full time working, single mother of two busy boys. I was also a massage therapist, massage therapy instructor, and cosmetologist. As a teacher I did these exercises before many classes and loved the relaxed, happy feeling that filled my classroom before we got into our lessons. So, I have to say that when I first read about this exercise I figured, "Oh, one of those; Too easy!"...Well, I was wrong.
Some of you know that I had a baby about 10 weeks ago. This is my third precious gift from God and at first I was like "Oh, one of those; Too easy!"...Well, let me just say that this has been no easy task. She is my first girl, and she likes to do things the hard way, like most of us ladies (whether we like to admit it or not). My sweet little princess likes to party like a rock star all night and eat like a champ. This leaves me with very little sleep. REM sleep? What's that?!
With that being said, the "Journey on Relaxation" put me to sleep three times before I could actually focus and finish the exercise. Now I know what to do before I go to sleep at night. Hey, if I'm only going to get 2 hour stretches, it can be quality, right? It was very cool to be able to visualize the blood flowing into my hands and arms and just as cool to feel the dilation in my abdomen as I visualized the blood returning to my GI tract. Also, I'm sure I've heard it a bazillion times, but I did not remember that our Gastrointestinal tract held 80% of our blood, although it does make sense. Also, I have had some severe back pain since giving birth in January and for the first time in days (weeks??), I was able to visualize that pain gone and really, truly relax. The connection between the mind and body always blows my mind.
I plan on using this exercise more regularly. Hey, I wasn't kidding about doing this exercise before my much needed two hour block of sleep.... ;)
Jo
Wow I too remember those two hour breaks in between the feedings, I have three boys now all grown up. Wow you really have done a lot in your various careers, very impressive. I find it interesting that the GI tract holds 80% of our blood supply which makes sense why stomach wounds, whether being stabbed or shot are almost always fatal. Good luck with your little one, hope to see some pics.
ReplyDeleteHi Jo! You definitely have a busy life, and just like you I find myself (most of the time) trying to remember what the word relaxation means. I have a really bad habit of not ever relaxing and I keep my body very tense 95% of the day. Even while I sleep I am tense and I grind my teeth, it's like my brain just will not go to sleep! That's how I have always been but some days it's just a lot more tiring than others. I am glad that the relaxation exercise was able to help you, I really enjoyed it myself. I actually felt my hands getting heavier, and they felt as if my heart was beating through them. I am anxious to try other exercises. Keep that head up girl, sounds like you are a great mom to those amazing kids of yours! :)
ReplyDeleteYikes, its amazing how after my daughter has grown up I typically do not think about the sleepless night we had. Reading your post takes me back and I must say great job in soldiering through and its great to hear the exercise is helping you catch little cat naps. These younger years can be trying times but as we know they are well worth the effort as our children are truly gifts.
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