Muscle tone is the potential energy stored in our muscles, manifesting as a constant and variable tension both at rest and during movement. When we are at rest, this tone helps us maintain an appropriate posture for each action we undertake.
Three types of sensitivity influence muscle tone:
- Interoceptive: Sensations coming from internal organs.
- Proprioceptive: Related to muscles, bones, and joints; it allows us to perceive our positions and movements in space.
- Exteroceptive: Sensations received from the environment through our senses.
There are three states of muscle tone:
- Rest: The natural state of muscles, balanced with gravity. An example of this would be meditating.
- Posture: The tone necessary to maintain a position in responding to a specific situation.
- Action: The tone required to perform a movement, ensuring it is effective, economical, and efficient.
Exercise to Distinguish Types of Muscle Tone
To experience and distinguish these three types of tone, sit cross-legged on the floor. Let’s begin with a conscious breath: inhale deeply, hold the air, and exhale slowly.
Pause and feel the stillness. Then, place your hands on your legs, keep your back straight, and start making circular movements with your head, first to one side and then to the other.
Now, move your shoulders forward and backward, feeling the motion. Take another pause and enjoy the quiet.
Stretch your arms in an “O” shape: reach your arms to the right, return to center, and then to the left. Finally, tilt your head downward and gently shake your hands.
Bring your head back to the center and shake your hands once more. Return to a centered position, inhale, hold the air, and exhale.
This exercise will not only help you become aware of your muscle tone but will also allow you to explore the connection between your body and mind.