Softening the Edges
Tension makes the world feel sharper than it really is.
The mind tightens.
The breath shortens.
The edges of everything start to feel too close.
But softening happens one small place at a time.
This practice isn’t about relaxing your entire body at once — that’s impossible on command.
It’s about easing one thing, which signals the rest of you that it’s okay to let go.
Softening the edges creates space inside the moment.
And space brings relief.
How to Practice
1. Start with the jaw.
Unclench. Let the tongue rest.
The mind follows the jaw — loosen it.
2. Drop the shoulders.
Let gravity take one thing off your list.
3. Soften the breath.
Not deeper. Not slower.
Just less effort.
4. Let one edge blur.
Where you push, push a little less.
Where you brace, brace a little less.
Softening is permission, not performance.
Why It Works
The body holds tension long after the moment that created it.
But it also responds immediately when you release even the smallest part of it.
Softening one area sends a calming ripple through the nervous system:
- muscles loosen
- breath expands
- thoughts become less rigid
It’s a physical shift that opens mental room.
When to Use It
- When emotions feel sharp or overwhelming
- During stressful conversations
- When your mind won’t slow down
- When your jaw aches or your shoulders rise toward your ears
- As a quick reset before bed
It doesn’t have to be perfect.
Softening is still softening.
Closing Reflection
Ease what you can.
Let the rest loosen in its own time.
🌿