Releasing through movement

Learning ways to connect to your creative self through movement.

“What I’m after isn’t flexible bodies, but flexible brains.

What I’m after is to restore each person to their human dignity.”

–Moshe Feldenkrais

For many artists and creatives we think that it all lies in the intellectual, the thinking rather than the being.  But really the body plays a big part in our creative practice.Whether we need to release tension at the end of the day or just get the blood going to feel freer.

We all know when we sit on the sofa, binge watching a series that  we feel flat, uninspired. I am definitely guilty of favouring Netflix but knowing that the fresh air of that 15 minute walk in my local park with yourself almost certainly will energise me.

By exploring the physical plane we can find ease in the body, which will, in turn, help keep those creative vibes flowing.  We can see the effect very clearly in the process of somatic therapy - a form of psychotherapy that uses movement to release trauma. This same principle can be used in a daily practice and the great thing about it is that it doesn't have to be "exercise" - it can be a kitchen dance party to your favourite playlist, that walk in nature before work, a 20 minute stretch or yoga class before bed. If approached as a way to feel into your body, to try and be present during the movement we can certainly see immediate benefits. 

As this process becomes more familiar you will learn which forms of movement work best for you. It has to be enjoyable- basically it’s better to move daily for ten minutes than kill yourself at CrossFit once a week!

But it can also be a process through which you can release emotions to allow space for your creativity.  For some people the creative process itself can be a very effective outlet but if that's not for you maybe a jump up and down to Tina Turner (my favourite Proud Mary always does the trick) will be the one. 

How can you make it about the intention rather than the action? Setting that intention at the beginning, to ground yourself, can be as helpful as the movement itself.  We know that the brain has the ability to mould and remould itself through neuroplasticity - so if you reaffirm your movement intentions daily the benefits will be far greater than your physical efforts.

Some tips I found helpful when trying to connect and move with my body in a more intentional and present way:

i.Listen to music that elevates your mood or alternatively makes you feel meditative (eg. binaural beats)

ii. Dance when no-one is looking - set a timer for ten minutes and go for it. Maybe try closing your eyes!

iii. Take a walk in nature - ideally with no phone or headphones.

iv. Take a yoga class - there are lots of different types from Vinyasa to Kundalini so whichever resonates with you the most.

v. Go for a run - but maybe try and new route.

Let me know if you find the moving helps with your creative process?