”Stretch your body stretch your mind”

I always make sure to stretch my legs after running .

When I trained Shaolin Kung Fu in my 20’s I learned the concept of “stretch your body, stretch your mind”. The training sessions were obviously very intense, and always included an even more intense stretch break. I’ve also done a lot of yoga on and off over the years. And in yoga as well we deeply face the journey of stretching.

Stretching is relevant to keep our bodies healthy, more flexible and to prevent injuries. However when we stretch out body, we also stretch our mind. A lot of tension in our body comes from a narrow mind and feelings of fear. Our mind and body often limit us. As our body and mind/feelings are interconnected, we stretch our mind as well when doing our physical practice. Try it for yourself and see! When we relax in our stretches and believe in ourself, we can physically go a lot further. When our body goes deeper, so does our mind. 

A lot of people ignore stretching and don’t make the time for it. One reason is a narrow and somewhat proud thinking, that isn’t humble enough to admit that the body needs to stretch (especially after exercise). A narrow mind full of control does not want to enter the unknown - which stretching very much is about. As it leads us in new directions and new possibilities. Often we may not make the time for it as it shows no outer immediate results.

Our buttocks tend to hold emotions - stretch it! 

When we stretch, as in yoga practices, we also unlock a lot of stored emotions. Muscles who are tense and tight hold on to our past. If we are unwilling to let it go - the stretch is very challenging. Stretching is about letting go of control (in a controlled action). We do not just also stretch our mind, but we need to open our hearts in the process. 

Ask yourself why you give no or little time to stretching. Challenge yourself to go deeper when you do stretch. Every day also practice to stretch your mind. Allow yourself to see things from other angels, to accept new perspectives, let go of what does not work and embrace what life gives you. 

Always know that you can do more than you think. That you are more than you believe. And that you can transform both your body and mind, one stretch at a time :)

Xoxo Susanna