Relax completely – one of the training principles in Ki-Aikido – addresses the subtle background tension held in our body that’s a part of our steady-state. It’s the tension we don’t notice, our postural status quo in everyday activities.
The subtle tension may result from the lean of one’s body while focusing on a computer screen — the automatic contraction of shoulder and back muscles to maintain balance in the lean. Or when stuck in rush hour traffic – the set of the jaw and the rise of shoulders as frustrations mounts. We only notice the tension after it adds up to cause discomfort or pain.
During an aikido movement, it’s the muscle contraction that happens of its own accord as I lean while turning, or when I push or pull against my opponent. We don’t notice the tension, we only notice the outcome — that the movement is awkward or ineffective.
Relax completely begins with awareness of the status quo postural tension we carry during everyday actions and activities. That awareness allows us to engage our volitional ability to release unnecessary muscle tension.
