Playing Possum: Acupuncture and Bodywork for Restoration and Balance
Possum Playing Possum
Have you ever wondered what a Possum and a Honey Badger have in common? They both “play dead”. This is not just a survival tactic, but also a way to restore and rejuvenate. In the world of Yoga, this concept is embodied in the “corpse pose”, a restorative pose that allows the body and mind to relax, regulate, and recharge.
The Power of Stillness
1) Setting the Stage
Start by setting a timer for 15 or 20 minutes. Find a warm and comfortable place on the floor and lay down. This is your time to disconnect from the world and connect with yourself.
2) Breathing and Relaxation
Once you are comfortable, take three deep breaths. With each breath, tense your entire body for a brief moment and then relax. That’s right-- everything. Begin scanning your body from top to bottom; head, face, neck, shoulders, arms, forearms, hands, chest, abdomen, and all the way down to the feet. Don’t forget to include the front and back of the body. Each time you exhale, consciously relax the areas of tightness.
3) Deepening the Relaxation
After these first three breaths, breathe normally and allow your body and mind to relax and melt further. This is where the magic happens. This is where your body begins to restore and rejuvenate.
4) Coming Back
Don’t move until the alarm sounds. When you get up, take a moment to note how you feel. What’s still tight? What’s more relaxed? How is your energy level?
5) Making it a Habit
Just 15-20 minutes is all you need to get a refreshing break that recharges you for the next round of picking up the kids, running to a dinner and a show, or working out.
Acupuncture and Bodywork: Tools for Restoration
In the same way that ‘playing possum’ helps to restore your body and mind, acupuncture and bodywork can also play a crucial role in maintaining balance and energy. These ancient practices have been used for centuries to treat a variety of ailments, from chronic pain to stress and anxiety. By integrating these practices into your daily routine, you can enhance your body’s natural ability to heal and restore itself.