Do you ever find yourself stressed while trying to navigate through the hustle and bustle of life? You’re not alone. Many of us find ourselves overworked and overwhelmed while in the pursuit of work-life balance.
To help remedy the uncontrollable stresses of a fast-paced life, Dr. Brenda Jefferson highly suggests the calming benefits of Mindful Movement, which is best described as purposeful and deliberate physical activities.
“From the serene flow of Yoga to the graceful motions of Tai Chi, it serves as a way of connecting the mind and body,” Dr. Jefferson tells BrownStyle Magazine exclusively. The motivational speaker and author of Praise Him While You Wait adds, “It’s more than just a series of exercises, it embodies a holistic approach to well-being, offering a sanctuary where self-awareness, relaxation, and empowerment meet.”
Who Can Benefits From Mindful Movement?
Mindful Movement differs from traditional exercise by placing greater emphasis on the mind-body connection, fostering self-acceptance, and reducing the risk of injury.
If you thought that Mindful Movement was only for those more spiritually inclined, you couldn’t be further from the truth. According to Dr. Jefferson, the wellness practice is for anyone who wants to find peace of mind. She notes it can be particularly beneficial for women, as it allows us to gently ease away from the burden of cultural constraints, societal expectations, and personal hardships to find inner peace.
It can also be tailored to an individual’s preferences and beliefs. “By showcasing its versatility, we can encourage more people to add this practice into their way of life,” she notes, adding Mindful Movement provides a safe space for women to explore and heal from physical and emotional challenges.
“Mindful Movement offers an effective way to manage stress among Women of Color,” Dr. Jefferson shares. “Through mindfulness practices, people learn to navigate stressors with more ease while improving mental well-being. It provides practical techniques to cope with daily pressures, build resilience, improve self-esteem, and promote emotional resilience.”
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How To Get Started With Mindful Movement
Though Mindful Movement might sound like a pricey new fad, we’re here to dispel any worries. It doesn’t require expensive equipment or memberships. There are plenty of ways to start your Mindful Movement adventure without spending a single penny, according to Mindful.org.
“Online resources, free classes, and community initiatives can make it accessible to women regardless of their financial circumstances,” Dr. Jefferson informs us. “The key is to explore available options and find what works best for your budget and lifestyle.”
She also encourages us to start small with simple practices like deep breathing or stretching. “Explore online resources or local classes to find what resonates with you,” she adds.
Below, check out some of the exercises we found on YouTube to help you on your journey.
Breathing Exercises
Breathing exercises are not the same as sitting meditation, where we study our breath at rest. With Mindful Movement, we intentionally lengthen our breaths to quiet our parasympathetic nervous system or briefly shorten them to refocus and renew our bodies.
Walking Exercises
The main difference between walking normally and engaging in a walking meditation is that the objective is to become calm. During this time, we make an effort to walk with full awareness. This may manifest as paying attention to our breathing or becoming more aware of the ground beneath our feet. We return our thoughts to the present feelings when they wander.
Stretching and Yoga
Let go of stiffness, tension, and heavy emotions by practicing yoga and stretching. Our bodies and minds both experience discomfort. By practicing mindful movement, we let go of the day’s distractions and find peace in the moment.
30 Minute Workouts
Exercise is another way to practice mindfulness if you want to let off steam. Exercise can help us become more aware of our bodies, connect our breathing, and live in the present moment while also strengthening and nourishing our muscles.
Remember, Mindful Movement is a journey. Embrace the process, be patient with yourself, and most importantly, make it a part of your self-care routine. You’ll discover its amazing benefits along the way.
