Be-Long

One of my favorite signs of embodiment and self-connection, or “dropping in” is when the spine and limbs elongate slightly.

It is a subtle shift and often the person remains unaware.

A person who is seated and telling a juicy story may effortlessly straighten to become an inch taller.

When this takes place, the body is signaling to itself and others that it is opening for business.

Something essential and alive in the person has been touched.

Constriction around the joints releases and potential that was collapsed re-inflates.

When this shift is reflected back, it can help the person to become aware of and re-own their vitality.

This is much better than trying to “fix ones posture” through conscious manipulation.

The latter approach only creates more character armor.

It is virtually a golden rule in somatic psychology, that it works out better to tune in and align with one’s nature than to go to war with it.

In summary, when we are safe and held in emotional connection, our posture naturally becomes expansive. We signal that we truly belong here.

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p.s. You may have noticed that bodyworkers often lift and reset limbs as relaxation produces elongation. This is a really good sign that your nervous system is relaxing, reconnecting, and regulating.

Now, don’t forget to write me that sentence…