The Emotional and Spiritual Connection of the Psoas Muscle

Understanding the Emotional and Spiritual Connection

The psoas muscle is often referred to as the "muscle of the soul" because it is deeply connected to our core, both physically and emotionally. This connection can have a profound impact on our overall well-being.

1. Emotional Tension and Stress The psoas muscle can store stress and emotional tension, which can contribute to feelings of anxiety and unease. When we experience stress or trauma, our bodies often respond by tightening the psoas muscle. Over time, this can lead to chronic tension and discomfort.

2. Spiritual Well-Being A balanced and healthy psoas muscle can promote a sense of inner peace and spiritual grounding. Releasing tension in the psoas can help you feel more centred and connected to your inner self.

Techniques to Release Emotional Tension in the Psoas

Incorporating specific techniques and exercises can help release the emotional tension stored in the psoas muscle, promoting overall relaxation and well-being. Here are some effective techniques:

1. Psoas Wall Traction

• Purpose: This exercise helps lengthen the psoas muscle and release tension, promoting a sense of relaxation and grounding.
• Step-by-Step Instructions:
• Starting Position: Stand facing a wall about 3 inches away.
• Rest on the Wall: Rest your forehead and lower breastbone on the wall. Your arms should be relaxed by your sides.
• Slide Palms Up: Slowly slide your palms up the wall, rolling your armpits into the wall.
• Breathe Deeply: Breathe into your lower back, feeling the stretch in your psoas.
• Knee Bend: Keeping grounded through your feet, move your shins forward as your knees bend. You should feel a subtle spine lengthening as your psoas lengthens.
• Reach Higher: After a few breaths, try reaching higher up the wall.
• Walk with Awareness: After completing the exercise, walk around and notice the sensation of your lengthened psoas swinging your legs.

2. Lunge with Arm and Lateral Tilt

• Purpose: This exercise helps stretch and release tension in the psoas muscle, promoting flexibility and relaxation.
• Step-by-Step Instructions:
• Starting Position: Step one foot forward into a lunge position.
• Reach Overhead: Raise the arm that is on the same side as your back leg straight up towards the ceiling.
• Lateral Bend: Gently lean your upper body towards the opposite side, reaching your arm overhead. You should feel a stretch along the side of your body and into the hip of your back leg.
• Hold and Breathe: Hold this position for a few deep breaths, allowing the stretch to deepen.
• Return to Starting Position: Slowly return to the upright lunge position and then step back to your starting position.
• Switch Sides: Repeat the same steps on the other side, stepping forward with the opposite leg and reaching with the opposite arm.

3. Diaphragmatic Breathing

• Purpose: This breathing technique helps relax the psoas muscle and release emotional tension by promoting deep, calming breaths.
• Step-by-Step Instructions:
• Starting Position: Sit or lie down in a comfortable position.
• Inhale Deeply: Place one hand on your chest and the other on your abdomen. Inhale deeply through your nose, allowing your abdomen to rise as your diaphragm expands.
• Exhale Slowly: Exhale slowly through your mouth, letting your abdomen fall.
• Focus on Breath: Continue breathing deeply and steadily, focusing on the movement of your abdomen.
• Duration: Practice diaphragmatic breathing for 5-10 minutes to promote relaxation.

4. Meditation and Mindfulness

• Purpose: Practicing meditation and mindfulness can help release emotional tension and promote a sense of inner peace and spiritual grounding.
• Step-by-Step Instructions:
• Find a Quiet Space: Sit or lie down in a quiet, comfortable space.
• Focus on Breath: Close your eyes and focus on your breath, inhaling deeply and exhaling slowly.
• Body Scan: Perform a body scan, starting from your head and moving down to your toes. Notice any areas of tension and consciously relax those muscles.
• Visualisation: Visualise the tension in your psoas muscle melting away with each breath.
• Duration: Practice meditation and mindfulness for 10-15 minutes to promote relaxation and emotional release.

By incorporating these techniques into your routine, you can effectively release emotional tension stored in the psoas muscle and promote a sense of inner peace and well-being. Stay tuned for the next post in our series, where we'll explore advanced Pilates exercises for a strong and flexible psoas.