releasing tension and finding ease: a practice for nervous system regulation

For most of us, it’s draining—or even debilitating—to live in a body that’s holding tension, perpetually stuck in the fight or flight response. Instead of activating this survival mechanism only in times of true danger, our modern lives often keep it switched on unnecessarily. Everyday stressors like traffic, email notifications, and endless scrolling can trigger this powerful protection system, flooding our bodies with stress hormones designed to help us fight, flee, or freeze.

When this state becomes chronic, it can wreak havoc on our nervous system, making it harder to access the relaxation response—the parasympathetic state known as rest and digest. This imbalance can undermine our health, deplete our energy, and disconnect us from a sense of well-being.

For most of us, it’s draining—or even debilitating—to live in a body that’s holding onto habitual tension, responding to emotional triggers in ways that sabotage our health and well-being.

why do we hold tension?

Sometimes, our tension serves a purpose—it can feel protective, even comforting, like a familiar shield. In truth, many of us are attached to our tension because it gives us a sense of control or safety.

At first, the idea of releasing tension was nerve-racking for me. I remember asking myself, Who will I be if I let down my guard and see what’s underneath all my armor? If I don’t cling to my “strength,” what will be left of me?

But over time, I’ve discovered that it’s far more exhausting to live in constant tension than it is to explore ways to truly relax and reconnect with my body.

healing the nervous system through somatic practices

For over two decades, I’ve relied on a daily practice to regulate my nervous system and build resilience. But I’ve learned that my practice doesn’t stop on the mat—it extends into my everyday life. This continuity helps me cultivate the capacity to meet challenges with more ease and less reactivity.

The key to shifting out of fight or flight and into rest and digest lies in working with our body. Practices like somatic yoga, and progressive relaxation can help soothe the nervous system, reduce chronic tension, and foster our sense of safety and well-being.

When I consciously release tension, I notice the results immediately. Dissolving tension creates space—space for clarity, emotional regulation, and a deeper connection to myself. This process is vital for healing the nervous system and breaking free from patterns of stress, anxiety, and overwhelm.

I want to assure you that it’s far more exhausting to live in armor than it is to discover how to truly relax.

progressive relaxation: an 8-minute practice to reset

I’d love to share a short yet potent somatic practice that’s been transformative for me: progressive relaxation. This simple technique helps activate the relaxation response, allowing your body to feel grounded, spacious, and calm—all in less than 10 minutes.

In this practice, we’ll gently engage each muscle group by squeezing and then releasing tension, inviting your body to settle into a state of rest and digest. By combining mindful attention with physical release, we support the parasympathetic nervous system, encouraging balance and ease.

join jillian’s free friday meditation community

Ready to release tension, support your nervous system, and discover a sense of calm and connection? Join Jillian Fridays* for a free meditation practice designed to help you shift out of fight or flight and into a state of relaxation and

Together, we’ll explore simple yet powerful somatic practices to ease stress, regulate your nervous system, and feel more grounded—all in a supportive community.