Due to its strong influence on the development and persistence of chronic contraction, I will examine in more detail the process of suppressing the urge to cry. A similar pattern can be observed with all negative emotions. Crying begins when increased pressure develops on the underside of the respiratory diaphragm, as a result of rising energy in the abdominal cavity, which has not been redirected into action.

The following description of the process leading to crying is simplified. In response to a change in internal state or external pressure, we react by increasing the tone of the lumbar back muscles, glutes, and the back of the thighs. Chemical processes are converted into biological energy, creating the conditions for anger. This raises internal pressure in the abdominal cavity.

Such a state enables us to react to impulses and situations that disturb, obstruct, or threaten us. If we cannot influence them through anger—meaning we are prevented from responding with a sympathetic reaction such as fight, persistence, or flight—or if attempting to do so brings a negative response, we must limit the expression of anger.

We do this by shortening the abdominal muscles, diaphragm, and the front of the thighs, which we perceive as fear. A prolonged period of fear and increased internal pressure must occasionally be released in a more socially acceptable form than anger—through crying.

Crying in a child usually evokes compassion and mercy, but if the child cries too often, this can trigger resistance in the environment. This resistance creates in the child a need to suppress the influence on others through crying, which leads to the development of chronic patterns of muscular tension. Improper posture, movement, and breathing are then not far behind.