By Pauline Villanueva
What is mindful movement?
If we were asked that question, many of us would probably come up with the usual answers: yoga. Tai chi. Qi gong. Maybe we’d say going for a walk, running, or even some form of dance. But how many of us would say taking five deep breaths? How many of us would say walking (or maybe chasing after) our dogs? How many of us would say playing with our kids?
The answer is all of these can be mindful movement. At its core, mindful movement is simply a matter of being aware of your body and your surroundings. It is about being present as you move, rather than letting your thoughts wander to things that have happened in the past or plans for the future. And while certain types of movement, such as yoga or tai chi, lend themselves well to staying present, the truth is any physical activity can be considered mindful movement.
The benefits of mindfulness are well-known, as are the benefits of physical activity. When the two are combined, it creates an even more potent strategy for decreasing anxiety and stress, while increasing your own personal well-being. Furthermore, studies have shown that mindful movement may be especially helpful for those of us who feel as though we don’t have time in their day-to-day lives for a full fitness routine.
Here’s an example: the next time you walk to your car, instead of perhaps staring at your phone, take a moment to pause and look around you. Notice your surroundings. How does the air feel on your skin? What does it sound like when your feet hit the ground? Engage your senses: what do you see, what do you hear, what do you smell? You might even incorporate some deep breathing. A few minutes each day can have a powerful impact on your mental health.
This week’s focus on mindful movement is meant to highlight and illustrate different ways you can incorporate mindful movement in your everyday life, whether it’s through a yoga class, by checking in and listening to your body as you go through a workout, or even just by taking some time to dance in your office because you hear a good song on Spotify. We want to dispel the myth that mindfulness has to look or be a certain way. Instead, find what works for you in your routine and incorporate it in that way, rather than forcing yourself to do something that doesn’t feel comfortable and ends up making you more anxious and stressed. We’d love to see what you come up with!