“All forms of movement can be done through the lens of mindfulness. But, what is mindfulness, and why is it so important? “
- Sabrina Morici
MINDFULNESS & MOVEMENT
Yoga is not the only practice that combines mindfulness and movement. Mindfulness and movement are also combined in the practice of Pilates for proper muscle recruitment through the poses. But mindfulness is not limited to these two movement practices. All forms of movement can be done through the lens of mindfulness. But, what is mindfulness, and why is it so important?
Be Here Now
Mindfulness is the simple awareness of all the present moment offers, externally and internally. Mindfulness has been cultivated through meditation practices across the world for thousands of years. The earliest recordings of meditation come from 1500 B.C.E. in India and China. It has been used to train one not to fall victim to the stories of the mind, which can take the form of self-doubt, fear, anger, or other self-deprecating emotions. But we are not looking to rid ourselves of these thoughts or emotions. We are learning to see them from an outside perspective; to step away from being the main character in the story and simply be in the audience. This gives you power over your reactivity to the mind’s activity.
We often have our focus taken away by our thoughts. Whether in the form of a memory, a worry we have for the future, or something else – our minds have the power to take us on a journey far away from the present moment. This process creates a lot of stress on the body, mind, and soul.
When we use mindfulness with movement and exercise, our awareness tunes deeper into the body. We begin to move a bit slower, feeling each muscle being recruited for the exercise. We can feel if our body moves out of alignment and find our way back into alignment. Mindfulness allows us to have a deeper and more intense workout, better gauge when to increase or decrease difficulty, and when to rest. When our mind is detached from the strong pull of thoughts, we can be aware of important details like this. We can prevent injury, relieve stress, and so much more. As you learn to use it, the muscle-mind connection becomes stronger, not only during your workout but through the rest of your life as well.
Always On My Mind
Mindfulness draws you out of the stories of the mind and into the present moment, giving you a deeper focus on what is happening around and inside you. It is a practice where the benefits follow you for a lifetime if strengthened and practice regularly. Investing your time in mindfulness will make daily life feel lighter and easier to navigate, but don’t just take my word for it.
Try it out yourself, and let me know how mindfulness affects you!
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About the Author
Sabrina Morici
Sabrina Morici is a certified yoga and Pilates instructor at Fitness Incentive. She is also available for private and small group Pilates Reformer training.
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