Mindful Movement
In this fast-paced world, so much of what we do each day is about achieving more—getting fitter, stronger, and faster. Exercise advice usually tells us we need X number of days of cardio, and don’t forget the weight training for the full benefits!
But seriously, there just aren’t enough hours in the day to work full time, care for your family, and tick all those boxes for your health. You’re left feeling guilty that you didn’t squeeze in that workout, and even if you did have the time, the energy was nowhere to be found. It’s easy to fall into an all-or-nothing mindset that leaves you feeling defeated.
Of course, we all want to do the “Gud” things for ourselves, but what if we took the pressure off and just did what we could, right now? This is where mindful movement comes in—and trust us, it can be a game-changer!
What many people don’t realise is that slowing down has so many benefits, too. The intention and presence you bring into movement can activate healing pathways that even the most intense workout can’t touch.
Imagine if moving your body became a soothing form of self-care rather than just another task on your to-do list. That’s the magic of mindful movement. It’s all about combining physical activity with awareness, making exercise a way to nurture both your body and mind.
Mindful movement can be as simple as a slow walk, practising yoga, or even doing Tai Chi. What makes it different is the focus on how you move and how you feel while doing it. Instead of racing through your workout with your mind on the next task, you tune into every step, breath, and stretch, embracing a sense of calm and connection.
Some ideas to incorporate mindful movement into your week:
Stretching first thing in the morning—even while sipping your coffee or watching a show (yes, you can multitask and be mindful!). The point is, you can find time for this! Tune into your body. Where do you feel stiff or sore? Breathe into those areas. Gently stretch, but never to the point of pain. Notice how your body feels after and take long, deep breaths throughout.
Yoga: Flow through your poses slowly, paying attention to the areas that are stretching and activating. Deep breathing all the way!
Tai Chi/Qi Gong: These practices focus on slow, deliberate movements that harmonise breath and motion. It’s like a dance that calms both body and mind, helping you find balance and peace. There are loads of great online resources to get started.
Walking Meditation: Picture yourself strolling slowly, paying attention to each step and breath. It’s a lovely way to bring mindfulness into your day and make each walk a calming experience.
The benefits of mindful movement include:
Calms the Nervous System: When you practise mindful movement, you activate the body’s relaxation response. Your Nervous System shifts from stress mode to a more relaxed state, where you can truly unwind.
Releases Stuck Emotions: Trauma and stress often hang out in our muscles and tissues. Mindful movement helps to gently release this tension, like letting your body take a deep, refreshing sigh.
Boosts Emotional Well-being: Moving mindfully helps you tune into your emotions, leading to greater emotional balance and resilience. It’s like giving yourself a daily dose of self-care that nurtures both your heart and mind.
Enhances Body Awareness: Ever feel disconnected from your body? Mindful movement bridges that gap. By tuning into how your body feels, you develop a more compassionate relationship with yourself. It’s like learning to speak your body’s language and responding with kindness.
Reduces Stress and Anxiety: Moving with intention lowers stress levels and helps you feel grounded. It’s like pressing a reset button on your day, finding a peaceful moment of clarity.
Reconnects Mind and Body: When life feels hectic, mindful movement reminds you that your body is a source of comfort and strength, not just a vehicle for getting things done.
Remember, start small and be consistent! Notice how “Gud” you feel when you move—you might be surprised at how it ripples into other parts of your life!
Gud Stories:
From Michelle (founding member of the Gud Root):
Mornings used to feel like a blur for me—between rushing to get my toddler ready for daycare and trying to manage everything I needed to do in the day, I’d often start the day feeling drained before it even began. I knew I needed a change, so I decided to incorporate a bit of mindfulness into my daily routine, and it made a world of difference.
It all started with mindful stretching while enjoying my morning coffee. Each day, I set aside just ten minutes to sip my coffee slowly while doing some gentle stretches. I’d stretch my arms overhead, roll my shoulders, and lean into a few simple yoga poses. The key was to move mindfully, focusing on how my body felt with each stretch and breath. This little ritual turned into a peaceful moment of self-care, setting a positive tone for the day.
As I stretched, I noticed something amazing: my energy levels began to improve. My body felt more awake and alert, and my mind started the day in a clearer, more focused state. It was as if those ten minutes of stretching helped me shake off the sleepiness and get my body ready for the day ahead. I even started needing less coffee!
Then came my daily routine of walking my toddler to daycare. Instead of rushing through the walk, I decided to make it a mindful experience. We’d stroll slowly, and I’d take in the sights, sounds, and smells around us. I noticed how the fresh air and the simple act of walking helped clear my mind and boost my mood. Being present during those moments with my child felt refreshing and grounding.
Walking my toddler mindfully not only gave me a burst of energy but also made the experience more enjoyable for both of us. I felt more connected to my little one and less stressed about the day’s demands. Plus, the combination of stretching and mindful walking created a ripple effect throughout my day—I felt more energised, less frazzled, and better equipped to handle whatever came my way.
Incorporating mindful stretching with my coffee and enjoying a slow, intentional walk with my child has transformed my mornings. It’s like I’ve found a secret recipe for starting the day with a boost of energy and calm, without taking away from precious time to get other things done. These simple practices have become a cherished part of my routine, helping me face each day with a renewed sense of vitality and balance.
