As previously described stress can manifest itself in many ways in our minds and bodies. We are all individuals with different and varying life experiences and have our own ways of responding to stress. Perhaps the next step we should take is to find out where in our bodies the stress is causing tension.

To begin, find 15 minutes in your day when you can sit quietly and not be disturbed. It helps if it is “the best time of day” for you. There is a theory that we all have a “best time of day” when we can concentrate better and achieve results. Personally I have to admit that this can change from day to day but, as I said, we are all individuals! Get comfortable. Sit relaxed in a chair or lie on a bed or couch.

Start by closing your eyes and breathe with a steady rhythmic motion. Don’t worry if this stage is the best you can achieve at your first attempt. This is not a race you are trying to win; it is the first step on the ladder to a better understanding of how and where stress is affecting you.

When you feel ready, start concentrating on each part of your body in turn. Again, you may find this difficult as all you can sense is your body as a whole- give yourself time.

As you work your way down, take notice of any feeling of tension. A key area for me is my neck followed quickly by the shoulders. The next key area for me is abdominal. This seems to also cause some tension in my thighs. Have you reached your toes? Why not work your way up again, you may find that some of the areas you noticed on the way down actually feel a little more relaxed now.

You have taken an important step in recognising that your body is holding tension and more importantly where you are holding that tension and have to concentrate your efforts to release.