When the word “relaxation” is used to denote the letting go of excess tension, then it conveys a proper idea. For most people, however, it denotes an over-slackening of the muscles and tissues. The word ‘collapse’ could, indeed, be substituted. This is a very harmful condition and, in my opinion, far worse than the excess tension that it replaces. It is a pity that ‘relaxation’ has become so popular.
Many years ago my boxing trainer delivered himself of this piece of wisdom: “Relaxation, boy,” he said, “there isn’t such a thing. You’re only relaxed when you’re dead, and then rigor mortis sets in very soon. What is needed is a due tension of the muscles.” … When you have this due tension, which, remember, will continually alter during activity, you may call it relaxation or what you will.
Patrick Macdonald (“The Alexander Technique As I See It” – Notebook Jottings p11)