A practice day with crowded heads
Why moments of silence and tranquility are so important
Last week I had a practice day where a surprisingly large number of clients came in with the same complaint: a congested head. Thoughts that just won’t let go, restlessness inside, and a tense feeling in the body.
It was such a day when it became clearly visible how the energy of the season is reflected in what people experience.
We are in the middle of spring. A period when the energy in nature increases. We get back into motion, go outside and feel inspired to take action. For many people, this feels light and positive.
But not for everyone. Some people experience fatigue in the spring. Others notice that their minds become more restless, as if thoughts no longer have a break.
To better understand this, it helps to look at two basic concepts from Eastern medicine: yin and yang.
Yin and yang describe the movement of our life energy. They form the basis of treatments such as acupuncture and shiatsu. Yin stands for tranquility, silence, and turning inward. Yang stands for movement, activity, and going outward. These two are not seen as separate entities. Together they form a whole and maintain balance.
In the spring, the yang energy increases. That is a natural and healthy movement. But the yang cannot exist without the yin. To remain balanced, activity always needs a foundation of rest.
When that peace is lacking, the balance is disturbed. The energy rises as if too much to handle. This can manifest itself in restlessness, a full head, and thoughts that keep coming and going.
What does shiatsu do
Complaints of this kind often respond well to shiatsu. The treatment aims to rebalance yin and yang.
Sometimes it starts very simply. By touching you are again in contact with your body. Your attention somehow descends from your head into your body. Just that alone can cause your thoughts to become calmer.
From there, shiatsu continues. By applying pressure to specific energy channels, the underlying imbalance becomes noticeable and the energy can reorganize itself. Yin and yang come closer together, creating more harmony and balance.
What you can do yourself
If you notice that you experience more restlessness or a fuller head than usual during this period, it helps to consciously seek moments of silence.
Just as yang needs yin to stay balanced, you need rest to be able to be clear and creative.
Without silence, there is no room for real movement. Without rest, there is no sustainable action.
By pausing from time to time, you give yourself the opportunity to return to your center. And from there, a different quality of action arises naturally.