Preksha Dhyana Self Awareness by Relaxation

Author(s): Mahapragna Acharya
Publisher: Jain Vishva Bharati

Page 25

Postures and Exercises: Aids to Ralaxation
Activity, is also essential to healthy life. It aids and improves blood circulation in the muscles which benefit from movement. Almost every set of muscles has an antagonistone group relaxing as the opposing group contracts. If a set of muscles is held tight and tense in static contraction (i.e. without movement) for long periods, the circulation is impeded. There will be an accumulation of fatigue products, mainly, lactic acid, (which is normally cleared away by the flow of blood) and it is this that leads to pain, stiffiness and fatigue. Good circulation is, therefore, necessary to reduce the effect of accumulation of lactic acid in the muscle. Rhythmical exercise, by the alternate contraction and relaxation of muscles, will improve circulation and mitigate pain and fatigue.
Maintenance of correct posture is an important key for keeping the muscles relaxed. Our body is engaged in a constant struggle against gravity, and so habitual wrong postures would produce chronic strain in the muscles. In correct standing position the head is held high and balanced easily on the neck, neither bent on one side nor jutting forward. The abdomen is held in and the chest is allowed to expand freely. The shoulders should not sag forward, and arms hang freely. Good posture is not a stiff military "standing to attention" but a relaxed position. Correct sitting position is similar, with the spine and neck in a straight line, not stiff but relaxed. Do not sit slumped with your back stooping. Do not stoop or hunch your shoulders as you work. Deviation may result in backaches and even deformities. In driving, your back must be adequately supported.
Golden Silence
Would you believe that a public speaker uses a great deal more nervous energy than a labourer, doing a lot of
1. The biceps and triceps provide an instance of muscular antagonism. While the biceps is contracted, the triceps is relaxed, and vice versa.
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