Tip 27 – Lying Down Exercise I

For a little rejuvenation, lie on a firm surface with a book under your head for 15 minutes.
Allow yourself to settle.

Lying down in constructive rest - diagram

This is the classic Alexander exercise and the first page of the exercise in my manual. It’s not only restful, it is a good way to explore and organize the regions of your body. There is more to it than just lying down, but you can try it as it is described below.

Lie on your back with your head on the book, your feet flat on the floor (knees bent) and your hands on your abdomen. Imagine that you are almost weightless. Keep your hands apart and your knees separate from each other. Avoid moving around in order to look for the best position. Without pushing, allow your whole body to settle toward the floor (there will be some gaps between your back and the floor). Leave your eyes open.

When you are ready to stand up, do it slowly and easily. Be aware of your surroundings and leave the exercise until the next time.

More on Lying Down:

Part II of this Exercise

Proper Head Position

Point Your Spine

Find Your Hip Joints

And for a  longer excerpt, visit The Secret to Using Your Body.

 

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