Health Club Articles

Let Your Body Be Your Guide - Creating Harmony and Balance Through Movement

Eastern cultures have been aware of the mind/body connection for millennia. More and more I see Westerners becoming conscious of this connection and expressing it in their lives. Thoughts do influence the physical body, however it works both ways: movement has an influence on thoughts and feelings too.

When you make movement an integral part of your daily routine, you begin to open pathways in your body that stimulate you mentally and emotionally, as well as physically. Through movement your body automatically releases exactly what it needs (think stress and toxins), in the exact dose needed to bring you back to harmony and balance.

Trust your body. It has all the tools it needs to heal itself if you give it the opportunity. Let the following serve as guidelines to enhance your experience as you exercise and train your body in any movement:

1. Create an attitude of joy. Give your body an assist as you work through your fitness routine - or any other routine. The body accepts whatever emotion you express, and as a result you become that which you hold in your mind. Joy is a very powerful and positive emotion!
2. Be kind to yourself. It's unproductive to compare yourself with others, especially when you're working out. Follow your own path and be grateful for where you are on your wellness journey. Remember that the past does not dictate the future, and this moment is as it is meant to be. As you adopt kindness toward yourself, begin to think of your exercise routine as a gift you give yourself to promote balance and harmony.
3. Stay in the moment. It's all about the journey. Focus on each movement and stay conscious of your technique. It will bring about change faster and with more joy.
4. Be the best you can be. One of the few things you have control over is the habits and behaviors you engage in for your personal well-being. Positive action is a form of love that fosters a more balanced you. But it doesn't stop there. Your choices influence all those around you. By making exercise and movement a priority in your life, you raise the level of well-being of friends and family too.

My goal at The Body Architect has always been to create an environment in which you can learn these principles and put them into practice. I wish you all continued success as you consciously explore your own movement and how this practice can shape your life.