In Yoga, we often cue to let go and release, to soften and to surrender. Even though, I feel that this is an important part of regaining balance in the body and life, it’s only part of the work and on its own only very limited in its effectiveness. The other part of the work is encouraging muscles that have lost their ability to hold onto energy, i.e. hypo-responsive muscles, to regain that skill and to thereby become fuller and more present. The muscles that are overworking, hyper-responsive muscles, benefit from letting go. However, hypo-responsive muscles have moved into a more collapsed state that does not benefit from releasing, as there is nothing to be released. The protection in those muscles is a distancing vs. a holding on. Inviting hypo-responsive muscles to soften encourages them to further move into collapse, i.e. further away from balance.
Those parts of ourselves that have gone away need kind encouragement to return. Working with dosage is a key aspect in the work. Gently inviting more aliveness to increase the capacity for holding onto energy is crucial. The question is: What is missing? What is not present? And then to listen to the silent voices within. I’d love to hear your reflections on your missing parts and the areas in the body that tend to go away.
5 Comments
20/10/2023 09:43:23 am
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31/12/2023 05:52:19 pm
Reading this reflection on hypo- and hyper-response resonates deeply with my own yoga journey. I've often found solace in the practice of letting go, but your insights highlight the importance of a more nuanced approach. It's intriguing to consider the muscles that may have lost their vitality and need gentle encouragement to reawaken.
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6/5/2025 03:05:45 pm
How do you recommend practicing this balance in a way that doesn't overwhelm hypo-responsive muscles?
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Harry Ward
12/5/2025 07:41:29 am
This is such a thoughtful reflection on the balance between hypo- and hyper-responsive muscles. It's easy to focus on releasing tension, but as you mentioned, some muscles need a different kind of attention – one that invites them to regain their strength and presence. I appreciate how you emphasize the importance of listening to our bodies and gently encouraging the return of energy where it’s been lost. It’s a reminder to approach our practice with sensitivity and awareness. For anyone seeking more wellness guidance, SheMed Website has great resources to help nurture both body and mind!
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Harry Ward
17/6/2025 11:09:34 am
Very thoughtful explanation! It's a great reminder that not all tension needs release — sometimes we need to bring energy back where it's lacking. I’ve also found helpful insights on my wellness journey from SheMed (https://www.shemed.co.uk) — they share great tips for balance and health.
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