I thought I had typed this before but can't find it
![Roll Eyes ::)](https://www.menopausematters.co.uk/forum/Smileys/extended/rolleyes.gif)
Sit or lay in a comfy position
Flap hands and arms gently by the sides of the body - relax
Starting at the toes - tense toes/ankles, hold for a few moments - relax
Calf muscles - tense, hold for a few moments - relax
The idea is to concentrate hard on each area of the muscles which are being tensed: this diverts the brain: and work the way up the body: calves, knees, thigh muscles; buttocks, belly, fingers; wriggle the wrists and turn the elbows in/out several times, gently. Relax. Upper arms, tense/relax.
Sit up - roll the shoulders: up to the ears and 'round' - relax. Neck: move head down with chin towards the chest and hold. Back to neutral (looking forwards). Put left ear to left shoulder without lifting shoulder, back to neutral. Same on the right. Don't force the movement, this is relaxation remember ;-). Head backwards, hold, relax.
Wriggle the forehead, lots. If possible, wriggle the scalp
![Grin ;D](https://www.menopausematters.co.uk/forum/Smileys/extended/grin.gif)
2nd therapy is breathing: in sharply through the nostrils and hold for 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 - breath out through the mouth as slowly as possible. 3 times. Rest and breath as slowly as possible. If this is done too fast too often one may well feel dizzy
![Roll Eyes ::)](https://www.menopausematters.co.uk/forum/Smileys/extended/rolleyes.gif)
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Many years ago (1960s) my music teacher told the class that very few people breath correctly which is where singing helps a lot. Sitting correctly at the table and when on the computer etc. is also important as it allows the chest to operate properly. Wearing the correct foot wear can allow the body to relax as it doesn't need to compensate for bad posture .........
Clear as mud?