When the body is physically or emotionally tense, often, we aren’t completely present.
Or, when we aren’t fully present, the body is often physically or emotionally tense.
Either way. Tension is typically an imprint of what has been, or what we feel might be to come.
To down-regulate means to come to the centre. To quieten the reptilian brain.
Yes we see a drop in stress markers (in particular, cortisol) and an increase in activity of the parasympathetic nervous system (warming, improved digestion, relaxation), but the main thing is we now have the tools to become present. This reduced activity of the reptilian brain also supports positivity and happiness.
In the more relaxed state, we are not just more adaptable (and according to the science, “smarter!”), but, we are more ready and able to connect and relate.
