Finding the Appropriate Minimal Effort in Daily Activities
By
gmays
Hand-rolled, kettle-boiled, baked to perfection. Worth every minute at the bakery.
Summary
The article argues that most people exert excessive effort in daily activities, using the metaphor of gripping objects too tightly as an example. It explores the concept of 'non-doing' from the Alexander Technique, suggesting that many activities require far less energy than people typically use. The piece advocates for finding the appropriate minimal effort needed for each task, from physical activities like holding a cup to mental tasks like writing.
Key quotes
· 5 pulledMost people put too much effort into everything they do.
There's a pattern of pervasive over-gripping that, once you start to look for it, you will find everywhere.
There is an appropriate amount of energy required for each activity.
Like I was touching and holding things with 40% more tension than required for that object or activity.
Something clicked about inhibition and non-doing (in Alexander Technique), and the strongest effect has been a relaxation of my hands.
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