A Body in Motion

Newton’s first law tells us that an object in motion stays in motion, and there is no better analogy for the human body. Movement is vital to the health and wellbeing of our bodies, minds and spirits. Everything from subtle movement to explosive, athletic movements stimulate the body’s innate ability to heal. In Chinese medicine, there is the notion that where there is stagnation, disease develops. Movement helps with circulation, it pumps the lymph and moves the fluids of the body, lubricating our joints. The movement of the breath can calm the mind. It moves the diaphragm, which in turn massages the abdominal organs. We are truly a dynamic moving organism.

Stages and phases of life require different types of movement, but the idea is simply to keep moving in whatever way you can. Breath work helps with cardiovascular and respiratory wellness, as well as aiding mental health, by preventing emotions from getting stuck. A variety of exercise, from cardio to strength-based movement, helps keep the ligaments and tendons healthy, while also keeping the body strong and promoting blood flow. Myofascial release and stretching keep the fascia healthy and gliding smoothly, which in turn helps unlock and relax the muscles, promotes circulation and decreases inflammation. Even when it comes to the brain, novel movements keep the brain and body guessing, which translates to a more resilient mind and body. However you can, invite movement into your life as often as possible and keep it going.

– Dr. Jill Beasley, Blackberry Mountain Holistic Health Specialist