The Real Benefits of Movement
We all hear that exercise and moving our bodies is good for our health but as I toil through a workout I sometimes begin to wonder - what am I actually gaining from this? Sure, we all want to look and feel our best - but the movement is so much deeper than those surface-based intentions. To me, here are the real benefits to movement:
1. It is scientifically proven to improve our mood and state of mind.
Moving your body has its benefits, it releases those happiness-inducing endorphins. Through daily movement, somatic or otherwise, our mood can be improved for the long term. Even better if we’re listening to music as it releases a good dose of serotonin!
As a certified yoga instructor, I cannot rave about the benefits of somatic movements enough! Somatic experience is a therapeutic way of moving that is a heart-centered approach. If you are curious about learning more about the psychological and emotional benefits, check out my blog that goes a little deeper into somatic experiences and what they are!
2. It creates opportunities for socializing with others.
As we enter into a (more or less) post-pandemic world, it is so important that we re-familiarize ourselves with others and “get back out there”! However, sometimes it’s easier said than done. Isolation is at an all-time high and working remotely is quickly becoming the new norm so the question now is how do we meet people and make new friends? One of the best answers I can think of is through your hobbies. There are so many outlets, art, reading, activism, and physical activity. There are dance groups, hiking groups, yoga, and pilates. Try to get out of your comfort zone, meet someone new, and move your body a bit while you do.
3. It is a useful creative outlet and can connect us to our roots.
No one said ‘movement’ had to be going to the gym and repetitive cardio. Dance is one of the best forms of exercise for us because it really is so much more than exercise. Remembering a choreography can even strengthen your memory! Dance-based activities not only can connect us to communities and to history, but they can also be a creative outlet for you to release your stress and ideas into. Dive deep into what dances hold significance for you and think of how much you can learn. Dancing can be a vulnerable activity but it can also be so empowering.
If you would like more inspiration, see my other blogs for other moves you can make for your well-being!
4. It shows us what our bodies are truly capable of.
We often never know our limits until we test them. Whether we are reaching a fitness goal, changing up our lifestyle, or simply trying something new, movement is one of the best ways to challenge yourself. We use our bodies every day in some way; walking to work, carrying our shopping and grocery bags, etc. However, our bodies are capable of so much more. If you don’t think you could finish that hike, lift that weight, or play that sport, get ready to surprise yourself. With some time and motivation, we are capable of doing anything.
Movement can help get our minds off our worries and stressors. Another activity that I like to do to give myself peace of mind is taro reading. With that in mind, I am excited to announce that this August 2022, I will be teaching a 4-week online course on the Basics of Tarot Reading!
It will cover everything you will need to know to go from an absolute beginner to an experienced medium. In this class we will discuss:
The Basic Principles of Tarot
The Major and Minor Arcana
How to interpret the symbolism of these mystical cards
How to use tarot to help you in your everyday life
Pre-register for my course now and receive a free gift! Join our growing community of people seeking to awaken their power through tarot!
