Article
In Motion
Movement is so important to maintaining healthy energy levels, and it can create a powerful shift in your mood and your day. If I am not getting enough movement in my life because of travel, illness, deadlines, etc., I feel it almost immediately. My body recognizes that it is missing a needed outlet. Even small bursts of movement throughout my day help calm my nervous system and regulate my cortisol levels. We all have those days when we could easily talk ourselves out of moving our bodies. In those moments, draw your attention to how you want to feel and remind yourself that moving your body will shift your energy into a more positive place. Variety plays a big role in my personal relationship with movement. I like the challenge and the playfulness of incorporating different movement-based activities into my routine. But while I may have goals for what kind of movement or exercise I intend to do, I often adjust in the moment based on how I’m feeling. I have learned to trust my energy and know when I’m ready for strength-focused work, when I need to connect on my yoga mat and when I need to dance like no one is watching.
Charlotte Hardwick is an expert yoga and wellness instructor, and a valued friend of Blackberry, who does a beautiful job of expanding on the importance of movement within a balanced wellness journey. Charlotte encourages curiosity and invites you to explore how movement, whatever that may be for you, can renew you.
– Intro by Meghan Henley
I think many of us know that movement boosts energy, eases stress and allows better sleep, but movement also refines the quality of energy we bring to our day.
In Awakening the Spine, Vanda Scaravelli writes that “movement is the song of the body.” As I approach movement this way, I feel a real sense of gratitude for my body. Even a few moments of movement can generate not only vitality but clarity.
We are living in a world where many lives and relationships exist through screens. People are running through their days on adrenaline and cortisol, creating imbalances in the body. There is a disconnect between mind, body and heart. The medicine for this is a slow, mindful practice where we notice and can tap into the inner intelligence of the body.
The key is to begin where you are. What do you like or love to do? Movement that inherently feels good is easier to commit to, and our bodies respond best when we are kind to them. This consistency brings sustainable wellness. I have tried many kinds of movement, and I always come back to yoga. I love that I can cultivate both ease and strength – softness and focus. The commitment to dipping into the practice daily is cumulative and brings me clear eyes and a soft heart. As we allow ourselves to feel the recalibration from gentle movement, we build resilience in a world that is asking so much more of us to stay positive and hopeful. For me, seeing movement like this is a necessity, not a luxury.
How do you take the first step? Again, think about what kind of movement you really like. If nothing comes to mind, then think about what you are craving more of in your life. More strength, more community, more spirituality, more flexibility, more quiet?
Now, make a plan. What time of day can you commit to this movement? Do you need to practice at home? Do you need to get outside? Do you need motivation? If you have the luxury of time, then when do you have the most energy? Once you decide, get organized. Put your clothes out, pack your bag, buy new running shoes, get a yoga mat or make a beautiful space at home. Remember, consistency is key.
When I first started learning and teaching yoga, I got caught up in the methodology and how “good” or “bad” I was. As I get deeper into my own yoga practice, I realize the benefits of slowing down that allow me to be present in a way that I never thought was possible for my busy mind. As I tune into a slower practice bolstered with support, the physical benefits amaze me. We now have the science behind slow, mindful movement. We are literally moving energy as we build strength and flexibility.
As you begin a new year, I encourage you to see movement and exercise differently. Rather than seeing it as something you should do, think of it as something you get to do. Let it sweep the body and the mind and clear the slate for a new day. Let it shift your perspective, deepen your connection to yourself, reframe your priorities, refresh your heart and renew your commitment to self. Let movement be the song of the body.