Movement Creates A Calmer, Centered Self
The connection between mind and body is real folks, and it’s amazing!
Your mind is one of your most powerful tools. When you mentally feel better and less stressed, you are more productive, you can think clearly, and your whole universe just seems to be in sync. Movement can make this all possible and can reflect your well-being and mood in positive ways.
Meditative Movement
Even the simplest body movements can be highly effective in releasing tension in the mind. Think about how good it feels to take that first morning stretch. You already feel more awake afterwards, energy is already starting to flow. Get to know and feel your body. Changing postures and focused breathing (big breaths, in through the nose, out through the mouth) send signals to the brain that help reduce stress and anxiety. From simple upper body reaches, to full on planks – this not only increases flexibility and strength, but it also creates that positive energy flow. When you increase physical flexibility, your mental outlook gains flexibility too. Maybe something is not quite as severe as you initial thought, because your mind is clear and you are working on a solution.
Cardio
It feels good to move big! Sweat is cleansing. When your heart rate is high, those “happy” endorphins are released, which in turn increase brain function, lowering stress levels and risk of depression. That oxygen is flowing and your energy level afterwards increases. Physical activity also helps your mind stay sharp – it changes the brain in a way that protects thinking skills. Try going for a quick run when you can. I honestly started running as a stress release and a time to be by myself and collect my thoughts. You don’t have to run a marathon or make any certain time, but go for a little 20 minute run at your own pace. Or a walk! Walking is one of the best cardios you can do because it’s lower impact, yet your heart rate still increases. Or maybe try out a local gym or studio in your area. Maybe there is a class that interests you. Often times the first classes are free, check them out! Sometimes your insurance plan will actually cover a portion of a gym membership fee for you as well.
Kids and Movement
So this is a topic for a whole other blog post; but I’ll touch on it a bit here. No child, or adult for that matter, is designed to sit still for a long period of time. They need to move so they can be their best self. I can’t tell you how beneficial movement is for kids and how it actually helps them learn, grow, and problem solve. But, it’s a total mood lifter too! I see it in my kids all the time. If they are still for too long, and their little minds are focused on something for too long – they get moody, they get cranky, they loose attention big time. They need a mental release, they need to move and stretch. They need to get that oxygen and circulation flowing and send those signals to the brain to recharge. No joke, if my kids are at home and have been sitting for too long or looking at a screen for too long (and start getting moody) I ask them to stand up and do some jumping jacks with me. They think it’s great when the parent joins in too. If the weather is nice, I ask them to run around the back yard a few times, maybe even do some push ups (it’s true! I ask them in a loving way, of course). I explain how positive this is for their bodies and minds, and sometimes, sure, they give me some lip about it. But if I join in they’re all about it! Lead by example!
Now I’m not a doctor, but I’ve always been active as a child growing up, and have exercised back as long as I can remember. I practice and instruct barre3, and just enjoy running and staying active in general. There is so much research out there that has proven how beneficial movement can be for your mood and well-being. I encourage you to take those mental time-outs and get moving, even just for 5 minutes or maybe for an hour. Why not clear your mind and feel good, right? I’m grateful I have the ability to freely move and encourage my mind to think clearly and lift my mood.