Yoga need not be your movement preference, but for those of you who have experienced a class or two, it certainly provides an example of how exploring a physical edge of work (the boundary in movement that cannot be crossed without injury or duress) will increase your tolerance for sensation. When you engage in an experiential process that requires you to endure physical exertion, your level of tolerance for the physical experience will increase only over a matter of time. Eventually, as your tolerance for the physical sensation improves, so will your emotional tolerance in withstanding the practice. After all, the mind and body are one. Practice building strength in your body and you will feel strong in both body and mind. Practice tolerating sensations and even the most sensitive of us can become masterful. So, integrating movement does more than keep you physically fit—it improves emotional regulation, reduces impulsivity, and diminishes stress. 

 

In addition, movement is expression. Since we communicate through movement significantly more than we do through talk, then incorporating movement into a therapeutic relationship offers opportunities to express what words cannot. In fact, exploring nonverbal communication is helpful for addressing interpersonal relationship conflicts, increasing pro-social behavior, and improving self-awareness. Learning to use your body in a more efficient, attuned manner not only strengthens our ability to be more present and grounded in relationships with others, but it also dramatically improves the relationship we have with ourselves.

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Movement of the body creates the experience of the mind—and, in a similar fashion, the quality of the mind manifests in the movement of the body.

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Movement is therapeutic, but this is by no means similar to your doctor looking at your blood work and telling you, “You need to exercise.” Movement is powerful, it is healing, and it is specific. As a movement therapist, it is my job to help you determine what type of movement best serves you—whether it is attending a local yoga class, joining a gym, experimenting with rock climbing, boxing, dance, or martial arts—the direction depends on how it serves you and your body. Movement can also be part of the therapy process. The Movement + Mindfulness + Medicine office is equipped for the assessment and design of at-home movement processes for those who first need to find comfort in their bodies before seeking activities in the community.

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