# Triangle of Tension Meditation: Releasing Neck and Shoulder Stress

An episode of [The Daily Meditation with Brother Richard](https://invisiblenetwork.ai/podcast/1861284240), 22 Oct 2026, 9:24.

Audio: https://sphinx.acast.com/p/open/s/693ebc1df3a6f9e20ac00b64/e/6ad9f2380456e4abe74c290e/media.mp3

In this meditation, I invite you to explore what I call the triangle of tension: the area extending from the base of the skull, down through the neck and towards the shoulder blades. Many of us carry stress and physical tension in this part of the body, often without realising how much it affects our comfort and ability to relax. Beginning with awareness of the breath, we gently explore these areas of tension through simple shoulder movements, mindful breathing and visualisation. As we imagine the muscles loosening and tension flowing away, we create space for greater relaxation and ease throughout the upper body. This is a practical meditation that you can return to whenever you want to bring a little more awareness and relaxation to the neck, shoulders and upper back. Chapters: 00:00 – Introduction: The triangle of tension 00:34 – Opening bell 00:49 – Entering meditation and settling the body 01:09 – Becoming aware of the present moment 01:29 – Noticing tension and discomfort 02:01 – Relaxing the body through the breath 02:15 – Breathing out stress and worry 02:50 – Understanding the triangle of tension 03:04 – Locating the three points of tension 03:42 – How everyday activities create tension 03:57 – Beginning the shoulder relaxation exercise 04:23 – Raising and releasing the shoulders 05:00 – Noticing the difference in your shoulders 05:14 – Breathing through the neck and shoulder blades 05:41 – Imagining the muscles slowly unwinding 06:06 – Checking for remaining tension 06:31 – Gentle movement of the shoulders and arms 07:01 – Visualising warm water flowing over the muscles 07:24 – Allowing stress and stiffness to flow away 07:47 – Feeling the neck and shoulders relax 08:10 – Returning awareness to the breath 08:34 – Gently moving the body 08:49 – Closing bell Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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