Meditation And Movement: Why Your Body Wanders

Many people experience spontaneous body movements while meditating. These can include shaking, head movements, twitches, and even larger movements. While this can be surprising or concerning for some, it is primarily the result of two factors: the release of tension from deep relaxation and an increased flow of energy in the body's energy field, which can cause involuntary movements. These movements are considered normal and are not something to be afraid of or fight against. Instead, one should simply allow them to happen and not resist or encourage them. With time and practice, these movements will begin to subside as the body becomes more accustomed to the meditation practice and deeper relaxation is achieved.

It's a release of tension from deep relaxation

When your body moves during meditation, it is usually a result of two things: the release of tension from deep relaxation, and an increased flow of energy in your body's energy field.

The release of tension is the most obvious cause. When the body is deeply relaxed, the muscles start to relax, and this can result in twitches and small movements, such as a thumb jump, or larger movements like the head turning. This release of tension is a natural response to the deep rest and stillness that the body experiences during meditation. It is important to note that these movements are normal and should not be a cause for concern.

Allowing these movements to happen without trying to manipulate or control them is crucial. Just as we allow thoughts to come and go during meditation, we can treat these movements in the same way. However, if the movements become too strong or disturbing, simply opening the eyes can help bring you out of the deep meditative state and the movements will naturally subside.

It is worth noting that these spontaneous movements during meditation are often referred to as "kriyas" in yoga. They can take many forms, including changes in breathing, eye gaze, hand movements, and more. Some people believe that these kriyas are the body's natural way of attempting to bring the body, mind, and soul into balance, ultimately leading to a state of peace and bliss.

By relaxing the body and allowing these movements to occur, you are encouraging a deeper state of relaxation and surrender, which can lead to a more profound healing experience.

Increased flow of energy in the body's energy field

Involuntary body movements during meditation are quite common, and there are a variety of reasons why this might happen. One of the reasons could be the increased flow of energy in the body's "energy field" or "aura". This is an esoteric explanation, but one that is worth exploring.

Deep meditation can open up energy pathways, and as more energy starts to flow, it can encounter blocks in the body's energy field. As this energy works to dissolve these blocks, the body may start to move spontaneously—shaking, twisting, or turning. This is because any change in the energy field is reflected in the physical body.

The experience of these movements can vary from person to person. For some, it may be a subtle sensation, while for others, it could be more intense. It is important to note that these movements are a natural part of the meditation process and are not something to be afraid of. Allowing these movements to happen without trying to control or manipulate them is key.

If the movements become too strong or disturbing, simply opening your eyes can help bring you out of the deep meditative state, and the movements will gradually stop. Taking a gentle approach, slowly coming out of meditation, is recommended.

It is also important to be aware of any unusual movements outside of meditation or any other symptoms. In such cases, consulting a healthcare professional is always a good idea to rule out any underlying medical conditions.

While these involuntary movements may be unexpected, they are a sign of the body's natural release of tension and the flow of energy. Embracing these movements without judgment or fear can lead to a deeper meditation experience and a greater sense of relaxation.

A sign of the upward movement of kundalini energy

Involuntary body movements during meditation are not unusual. Swaying or rotating can be indicative of the upward movement of kundalini energy. However, it is recommended not to dwell on or analyse these movements. Instead, it is better to relax and not emphasise or encourage continued bodily movements. The deeper one meditates, the less body-conscious one becomes, and the more the body becomes inert.

Kundalini energy is a subtle energy force in the astral body. To remain centred, one must relax the body and muscles and draw that energy into the centre of the subtle spine. This practice of meditation is an art that must be approached sensitively.

The upward movement of kundalini energy can be facilitated by consciously relaxing the body and testing how long one can remain motionless without any bodily movement. This cannot be achieved through force of will or muscular tension, but rather through deeper and deeper relaxation.

Meditation is a practice of "upward relaxation into superconsciousness". By relaxing the energy in the body and muscles and drawing that energy into the centre, one can raise that energy upward from the heart to the point between the eyebrows, which is known as the seat of enlightenment.

Allowing these spontaneous movements during meditation can lead to deep healing, improved flexibility and strength, and enhanced creative abilities such as singing and learning mantras. It is a natural healing mechanism that brings the body, mind, and soul into balance, resulting in physical and mental healing and the development of one's potential.

A natural response, the body is accustomed to moving

It is not uncommon for people to experience spontaneous body movements while meditating. These movements can be in the form of shaking, head movements, twitches, or even larger motions. While it may be surprising or concerning for some, these movements are typically the result of two main factors: the release of tension from deep relaxation and the increased flow of energy in the body's energy field or "aura".

The release of tension is a straightforward explanation. When the body achieves a state of deep relaxation during meditation, the muscles start to unwind, leading to twitches and small movements. However, it can also result in more noticeable motions, such as the head suddenly turning. This release of tension is a natural response, as the body is accustomed to being in motion unless we are asleep.

In some cases, the movements may be attributed to an increased flow of energy in the body's energy field. This explanation is more esoteric, but individuals may sense this movement as an association with "energy". When an individual reaches a state of deep meditation, certain energy pathways are opened, and as a result, energy flow increases and can encounter blocks. As the energy works to dissolve these blocks, the body may spontaneously shake, twist, or turn, reflecting what is occurring in the energy field.

It is important to note that unless the movements are causing discomfort or disturbance, there is no need to intervene. Allowing the movements to occur spontaneously without resistance is recommended. However, if the movements become too strong or disruptive, opening the eyes can help to gently bring one out of the deep meditative state and naturally lessen the movements.

These involuntary movements during meditation are not something to be overly concerned about. With time, practice, and deeper relaxation, they will typically subside. It is also worth mentioning that if unusual movements occur outside of meditation or there are other symptoms of concern, seeking advice from a healthcare professional is advisable to rule out any underlying medical conditions.

A sign of the nervous system being in a relaxed state

Involuntary body movements during meditation are often a result of the release of tension from the deep relaxation of the body and the increased flow of energy in the body's energy field. These movements can be interpreted as a sign of the nervous system being in a relaxed state.

When the body enters a state of deep relaxation during meditation, muscles start to relax, and this release of tension can manifest as twitches, shakes, or larger movements. This is a natural response as the body releases built-up tension and fatigue from the muscles and tissues. Allowing these movements to occur without judgment or manipulation is essential for a meditative practice.

The increased flow of energy in the body's energy field, or "aura," can also contribute to spontaneous movements during meditation. As meditation opens up energy pathways, the body may spontaneously shake, twist, or turn as energy flows more freely and begins to dissolve blocks or "knots" in the energy field. These movements are a reflection of what is happening in the energy field and can be a powerful tool for healing and self-discovery.

For some, these involuntary movements during meditation are indicative of a state of "yoga" or union with the divine. This state requires an empty mind and detachment from emotional phenomena, including fear, doubt, or excitement. Allowing the movements to occur without resistance is crucial, as true yoga requires trust, faith, and surrender.

Furthermore, these spontaneous movements can be a sign of the nervous system being in a relaxed state for the first time. When the nervous system is calm and the mind is relaxed, the body's natural healing mechanism, or "yoga," can begin to bring the whole being into balance. This can result in improved physical and mental well-being, enhanced flexibility, and a sense of peace and bliss.

While these movements are generally harmless, it is important to consult a healthcare provider if unusual movements persist outside of meditation or if there are any other symptoms of concern. Overall, embracing and allowing these movements to occur without judgment is an essential aspect of meditation and can lead to a deeper sense of relaxation and healing.

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