ExerciSe 6 : Our body

 

Let us follow the advice Yves Ledanseurs gives in his book “La mémoire au fil de l’âge” (p. 192). It is an approach to the attention we give to our body, which we often use without taking much notice of it.

“Lie down on a comfortable surface, like a mat or carpet or a bed, or sit in an armchair or on a couch.

Close your eyes and picture a scene that you find calm and peaceful: the beach with the sound of waves, a mountain landscape, etc. Make a clear mental picture.

Starting from the tips of your toes and progressing upwards, order each group of muscles to relax. Gradually be aware of the remaining tension that this exercise helps to eliminate.

Relax each part of the body in order, mentally repeating in rhythm: relax the feet, the toes, the legs, the knees, the thighs, the stomach, the chest, the arms, the hands, the fingers, the neck, the face, the jaws, the mouth, the tongue, the eyes, the eyelids, the eyebrows, the cheeks.

Let the tension melt away. Listen to our breathing: it should be shallow and regular. The feeling of wellbeing is delightful and this moment of pure relaxation should be savoured.