Mindful Movement

My work with young people and their wellbeing began when I trained to teach yoga and meditation with a wonderful organisation called, Calm for Kids. I love teaching yoga and seeing the enthusiasm children have for learning the poses (asanas) and the breathing (pranayama). The end of every session always involves some relaxation, usually to lovely calming music!

At the end of each term the children have the opportunity to self-evaluate their learning and I am astonished when generally 100% choose relaxation as their favourite part of their class.

This observation about the essential need for relaxation among young people that was one reason I decided to train to teach mindfulness. And I have used more and more mindfulness in my yoga classes. Yoga philosophy tells us that the vital function of stretching is to enable us to sit and meditate; and we focus on the breathe to bring attention inward during meditation.

But moving in a mindful way is different from just stretching. And there is more to it than yoga. Following a period of illness I was unable to do to yoga and instead attended classes in tai chi. It was a revelation to learn this gentle but powerful form of qiqong (pronounced "chi-gung"). It had a positive effect on my physical recovery and fed my passion for mindful movement.

There are many wonderful books, websites, apps and You Tube posts about it. See Resources. You can watch videos and listen to expert teachers, but a few suggestions below may be helpful.

Walking mindfully can clear your head and will connect you with your body and the ground beneath you. Taking slow-motion steps, follow the breath and focus on the sensations as you lift and place each foot. Notice how the balance and perception change. Try taking 20 steps.
Illness or disability may mean walking is not possible - moving any part of the body with awareness is just as good for us. Raising the arms or moving the head gently and slowly, bringing attention to any and all subtle changes.
Stretch with awareness of your breath and heartbeat. Notice the chest and belly moving. Reach up or to the side in any way that you choose. Slow the movements right down and notice how the body feels.
Consider joining a local class in yoga, pilates, tai chi or qiqong. It's a great way to meet like-minded people and a weekly commitment can sustain your practice.
Any movement or action done with mindful awareness can be transformative. Try it and see what happens!

" Drink your tea slowly and reverently, as if it is the axis on which the earth revolves - slowly, evenly, without rushing toward the future; live the actual moement. Only this moment is life." - Thich Nhat Hanh