Based on the title of my blog, you might think it’s focused on yoga, tai chi, or some other form of gentle movement often associated with mindfulness. While all of these can be beneficial, mindful movement can include much more.
As a runner, I have struggled with an Achilles tendon injury for years. There have been times when I had to forego running altogether for several months at a time. After diligently doing things to heal, I have been able to resume running. When I have had to take breaks, I had to remind myself to start slowly and to gradually increase my distance. This is not and has not been easy. I have re-injured myself from going too far too soon and from not being mindful when moving my body. I have been back to running for a couple years with little trouble, though I must constantly remind myself to be mindful while running.
I recently started training for a marathon, a bucket list item before I reach the ½ century mark later this year. Even though I have a training plan/schedule, I also have to be flexible and listen to my body, particularly my left foot/heel as I am increasing my distance. I am keenly aware of how my usual state feels and when I notice it becoming altered, I must stop running and walk for a bit to give my muscles and my heel a rest from the repetitive running movement. I do this so I do not re-injure myself due to poor body mechanics. By being mindful of my stride length, of how and at what point my foot hits the ground, of the terrain, of my posture, and of my pace, I can continue running injury free.
Another part of mindful movement is paying attention to or noticing what’s happening around you at any given moment. Since I run primarily on the road, paying attention always, is imperative. By staying in the present moment, I am more aware of potential hazards, like holes in the road, icy patches, and speeding or distracted drivers. I also get to take in more of the scenery and beauty of the terrain. There is nothing better than running up a hill and then pausing to take in the view before heading down the other side. I notice different sounds, like cars in the distance or the wind picking up as it blows across the fields or through the trees and finally on me.
You may be thinking, yeah, yeah, yeah, so what does this have to do with mindful movement? Well, mindful movement can be practiced ANYTIME you are moving!
Here are three easy steps to practice moving mindfully:
1. Notice what is happening in the body.
2. Recognize what is on your mind – notice troublesome thoughts we cannot stop. Recognize habitual patterns.
3. Accept that feelings and thoughts are impermanent and just passing through. Allow them to be in the space you are noticing. Allow yourself to feel what you feel.
If you find resistance – just notice how that feels with a sense of kindness to yourself. Breathe into the blockage or difficulty with a sense of softness.
If your mobility is limited, notice what movements you can do with ease. Try to capitalize on movements that are OK for you, even circling your arms, hands, or feet, or flexing the wrists. Allowing, acceptance and kindness are key to any mindfulness practice, still or moving, sitting, laying down or standing.
How do you move mindfully?
Written by Misty Harmon, Family and Consumer Sciences Educator, OSU Extension, Perry County
Reviewed by Jami Dellifield, Family and Consumer Sciences Educator, OSU Extension, Hardin County
Sources
Calechman, S., Bradley, C., Graham, L., Staff, M., Pratt, M., & Lagunju, O. (2022, February 4). Getting started with Mindful Movement. Mindful. Retrieved February 18, 2022, from https://www.mindful.org/getting-started-with-mindful-movement
Calechman, S., Bradley, C., Graham, L., Staff, M., Pratt, M., & Lagunju, O. (2022, February 4). Getting started with Mindful Movement. Mindful. Retrieved February 18, 2022, from https://www.mindful.org/getting-started-with-mindful-movement/
Dreskin, M., Smith, S., & Kane, D. (Eds.). (n.d.). The benefits of Mindful Movement. What Is Mindful Movement and What Are Its Benefits? | Mental Health & Wellness | Kaiser Permanente. Retrieved February 18, 2022, from https://healthy.kaiserpermanente.org/health-wellness/mental-health/tools-resources/mind-body-wellness/movement-benefits
Renner, B. (2019, February 13). Mindfulness meditation too boring? try mindful movement to shed stress, anxiety. Study Finds. Retrieved February 18, 2022, from https://www.studyfinds.org/mindfulness-meditation-mindful-movement-stress-anxiety/
Seery, J. (2022, January 31). Mindful movement. Mindfulness Association. Retrieved February 18, 2022, from https://www.mindfulnessassociation.net/weekly-challenge/mindful-movement/
Work Well NYC. (n.d.). Improving Mind-Body Wellness Through Mindful Movement. https://www1.nyc.gov/site/olr/wellness/wellnesshome.page. Retrieved February 17, 2022, from https://www1.nyc.gov/assets/olr/downloads/pdf/wellness/improvingmindbodywellnessthroughmindfulmovement.pdf
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