What is ‘Mindful Movement’?

This is all about re-thinking how we look at exercise. We’re all aware that we should be exercising in order to look after our health, and many people look at exercise as something they ‘should do’. But this means it can often turn into something we dread, or force ourselves to do, and we end up being hard on ourselves if we miss a workout. This negative energy causes us to dread it even more, and makes it almost impossible to maintain any kind of consistency. When you shift your mindset away from viewing exercise as a chore, and start moving mindfully, not only will you feel better mentally but you’ll probably also notice better results.

Mindful Movement is about tuning in and listening to how your body feels, and moving in a way that feels right for your body that day. It’s not about viewing exercise as a way to burn calories, but more about moving to keep your body happy and your mind at ease. It’s not about doing hour-long high intensity gym sessions 5 times a week, that leave you feeling burnt out. And it doesn’t even have to be formal exercise. This shift in mindset should allow your daily movement to become more enjoyable, less stressful, and a way to look after your mind and body at the same time. When you start to see movement as a form of self care, and something to enjoy rather than something to dread, you will be more likely to create habits that last.

So start by listening to your body, some days it’s going to feel like doing a spin class, some days you might need a stretch, and other days a short walk might be enough. But it is so important to take time for movement every day, even if it’s just a few minutes of stretching your body will thank you for it. Then check in with how your body feels afterwards, do you feel confident and energised, or fatigued and drained? Do more of what makes you feel good, and pay attention when your body is telling you to slow the pace.

My favourite ways to move are Pilates (obviously), this one goes without saying. but I love Pilates because it requires you to solely focus on the movement at hand. It gives you a break from everything else that’s happening in the world and allows you to really clear your mind. It’s challenging enough to keep it interesting, and to see results from the sculpting and lengthening of your muscles.

For me, swimming is another favourite way to move mindfully. And preferably outside, as a way to connect with nature. It feels like freedom, and its a great opportunity to feel like you’ve really got away from everything. The pace can be fast or slow, so depending on how you’re feeling it could be a great workout, or time to relax and switch off from your day.

Taking daily walks. This is great because you can do this literally anywhere and for any length of time, depending on where you are and what you fancy. When I’m travelling I find that walking is the best way to explore a new place, wandering around cities or hiking scenic trails, this is always when I get the most steps in. Or if I’m home I love taking an evening stroll around sunset, it’s the most beautiful time of day, the way the light shines and makes the surroundings look their prettiest. Getting a few steps in makes me feel less guilty about being horizontal the rest of the evening!

I also enjoy the occasional HIIT class, when you leave having had a great sweat and feeling full of endorphins. But I know this can also be quite a high stress environment for the body so I tend to do this less often than low impact exercise.

Mindful movement is about doing more of what you love, being aware of how your body feels, and creating healthy habits by moving every day. Enjoy the movement, don’t worry if you need to stop, or if you fall over when trying to hold a balance, just smile to yourself and remember the most important thing is that you are moving!