Common examples are the flexing of the shoulders which pulls them up toward your ears, or the grinding of teeth, or squinting of eyes and cheeks. These you may have noticed. With the practice of skilled relaxation you may become aware of more subtle tautness in the low back, hip joints, or hands. As your practice of skilled relaxation develops, you will become aware of the tightness that has overcome your digestive system and your breathing. Skilled relaxation can include meditation, tapes, light goggles, and tai chi to name a few that come instantly to mind.
Skilled relaxation is a long term activity.
It requires a patience and sort of a passive determination with which most of us beginners are unacquainted. If you want to get an idea of what will be in store for you with this practice, get a series of full body, deep tissue massages. Or see a rolfer. Perhaps there are testimonials of massage and rolfing in the archives. SR is like a universal solvent for so many chronic conditions, most especially when combined with a whole food diet and exercise.