Trouble relaxing specific body parts

**SeaDreamer** · 06-26-2016 08:36 AM

Hello all, during my WILD attempts and meditation, I've noticed that tension keeps creeping back into my left hand and wrist (I'm right handed). I don't do any kind of strenuous physical activity with that hand. I am reasonably good at relaxing the rest of my body. For example, I can "turn off" my legs pretty much straight away. But no matter how much I focus and breath into my left hand and wrist, the tension seems to sneak back in there within a few seconds. I have to constantly stay on top of it. The same thing happens with my face at first, but that seems to go away after awhile. Anyone else have this problem or have any suggestions for how to overcome it? It's extremely distracting! Thank you.

**AnotherDreamer** · 06-26-2016 03:41 PM

A couple things you could try!:
1. Do some strenuous physical activity! If you are having trouble relaxing your left hand and wrist, then maybe incorporate exercises that use your hands and wrists.
2. Give your hand and wrist a short massage before WILD.
3. Try tensing the muscles in your hand and wrist really tightly, hold it for a few seconds, then relax them. Then repeat if needed.
4. Focus on the sensation of gravity and weight in your hand and wrist. Feel your limb sinking downward while you imagine the tissues softening.
5. Stretch the muscles in your hand and wrist before WILD.