06/23/2026
Our bodies often communicate what our conscious minds miss.
Tension on the back and sides of the neck is where many of us hold stress, responsibility, and mental overload. While neck tension can have physical causes, holistic and somatic wellness practices often associate this area with:
• Carrying burdens that feel heavy
• Staying “on guard” or hyper-alert
• Overthinking and decision fatigue
• Feeling torn between different responsibilities
• Holding on to outcomes beyond our control
The sides of the neck help us turn and see different perspectives. Some wellness practitioners suggest persistent tension here may be an invitation to:
✨ Consider a new perspective
✨ Release what no longer serves you
✨ Stop looking backward while trying to move forward
As you practice this simple self-massage, pause and ask yourself:
• What am I carrying that I can put down?
• Where do I need more support?
• What am I trying to control that is outside of my control?
Pair this practice with:
✓ Neck message to release tension
✓ Slow shoulder rolls and gentle stretching
✓ Deep breathing with a longer exhale
✓ Relaxing your jaw and shoulders during a walk
✓ Journaling before bed to clear your mind
Wellness doesn’t always require a special place or perfect moment. Sometimes it begins with a few intentional breaths and a moment of listening to your body—even on a bus ride home.
What is your body trying to tell you today?
