Mindful Exercise
When we move/exercise gently, moving only 70 percent towards the limit of our abilities, in terms of range of motion and expenditure of energy, we then are operating in a healing, no tension zone.
Those who observe the 70 percent rule will consistently find their range of possibility expand. Their movements will enlarge and their strength will grow without the injuries that so often accompany the very practices in which we engage with the intent to better ourselves.
Our bodies are wonderfully made, they have built in safe guards, that when heeded, protect us from harm. Have you ever noticed when you do any movement to your limit how your body (muscles) begins to pullback, to retreat from that position? What is occuring is your body's attempt to protect itself from injury. Also, have you noticed how when we are at that place how your muscles begin to tremor and shake? This is tension, and one of the benefits you should derive from exercise is the release of tension, not the generation/increase of it.
So as with most things I recommend, do them softly, without tension, and to "seventy percent" of your limits.
Notice I said "most" for there are some things you should do with all your might, those are: love, give, bless, enjoy, understand and let go.
All is well. Be well... gabriel
Here's a 5 min sound clip of some my notes on the subject... It's unedited, please excuse... Click here