Lucy considers intuitive movement for self-care
We know that exercise is good for our bodies and our mental health but maybe we can reframe the way we think about movement in terms of our physical and emotional wellbeing. There are benefits to be had from movement no matter the size or speed and self-care should feel restorative or energy giving, not feel like a chore or something that depletes us!
We can carry unprocessed feelings in our bodies either from the past of even from our day which then take their toll on our energy levels, affecting our ability to take care of ourselves or fully rest. This also happens when our nervous system has activated into a fight, flight or freeze response, and can show up in many ways, such as feeling anxious, restless, experiencing pain or digestive problems, affecting sleep or not feeling able to get out of bed.
I suggest checking in with yourself in the morning, throughout the day, and in the evening: How are you feeling? How’s your energy? How’s your thinking? Is there any tension or numbness in your body?
Tuning in to how our body feels and intuitively responding with the care it needs can release tension and stress, unblock emotions, and provide soothing.
Here are some movement ideas to think about incorporating into your day:
- Gently turn your head from side to side, slowly let your head fall back and then forwards dropping your chin – but only go as far as is comfortable.
- Raise your shoulders up towards your ears and then let them drop back down – repeat as feels right.
- Shaking – you can do this standing up, shaking your whole body, or sitting down by just shaking out your arms, hands, and torso.
- Whilst sitting, stretch out your legs, flex and point your feet, rotate your ankles and wiggle your toes.
- Clench and release your hands, spreading your fingers wide and feeling a release.
- Stand with legs relaxed and hip width apart and swing your arms from side to side around you, allowing your torso to follow the movement.
- Dancing – this can either be fast and energetic (can include shaking here!) or gentle swaying and feeling connected to your body and the music.
- Walking – outside is great where you can also connect with nature but sometimes just remembering to get up and move around the house can be good.
- Butterfly hugs – crossing your hands over your chest and then slowly tapping them alternately. This can be followed by gently but firmly stroking your hands down from your shoulders to your hands, giving yourself comfort.
