Strained tension
Tense
Also known as uptight
Strength 2 of 4
Held tight and braced, as though ready for something difficult, with muscles gripping even when there is nothing yet to do.
In the body
- Shoulders drawn up towards the ears
- A clenched jaw
- Breath held or shallow
Needs behind it
When these needs aren’t met
Softer and stronger
Often confused with
Stressed
Tense is tightness held in the body, bracing for something; stressed is the pressure of more demands than feel manageable, which often brings that tightness with it.