Movement as a way to connect with your body and emotions from "summary" of The Joy of Movement by Kelly McGonigal
To truly understand the power of movement, we must recognize its ability to connect us with our bodies and emotions. When we move, we are not just going through the motions - we are engaging with ourselves on a deeper level. Through movement, we can tap into our physical sensations, our breath, and even our emotions. It is a way of tuning in to what is going on inside us, allowing us to become more present and aware of our own experience. One of the most profound aspects of movement is its ability to help us process and express our emotions. When we engage in physical activity, we are giving ourselves permission to feel whatever we are feeling - whether it is joy, sadness, anger, or fear. Movement allows us to release pent-up emotions and energy, creating a sense of release and relief. It can be a powerful tool for expressing emotions that may be difficult to put into words. Additionally, movement can help us gain insight into our bodies and minds. As we move, we can become more attuned to our physical sensations and how they relate to our emotional state. For example, we may notice that our shoulders tense up when we are feeling stressed, or that we feel a sense of lightness and ease when we are happy. By paying attention to these cues, we can learn to listen to our bodies and respond to their needs more effectively. Moreover, movement can be a way of processing and working through difficult emotions or experiences. When we engage in physical activity, we are providing an outlet for our emotions to be expressed and released. This can help us move through challenging times with greater resilience and grace. Movement can be a form of self-care, allowing us to nurture and support ourselves through movement and expression.- Movement is a powerful tool for connecting with our bodies and emotions. It allows us to tune in to our physical sensations, express our emotions, gain insight into our inner experience, and process difficult emotions. Through movement, we can cultivate a deeper sense of self-awareness and self-compassion, enhancing our overall well-being and joy in life.
