Mental health is not just the absence of mental illness; it encompasses emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It affects how we think, feel, and act, influences how we handle stress, relate to others, and make choices. Yet, despite its significance, mental health is often sidelined in discussions about overall well-being.
In a fast-paced world where stress is often an unwelcome companion, the importance of mental health awareness cannot be overstated. While conversations around mental health have become more prevalent, there's still much ground to cover. We are about to close Mental Health Awareness Month and much as been discussed in the global sphere – and yet we wonder, how much does the narrative around it all truly change?
The powerful connection of movement and mental strength
Movement is a potent ally in the quest for better mental health. This year’s Mental Health Awareness Month tackled in many ways this particular nexus, the one between movement and mental wellbeing, hence we are picking up the ball here. Whether it's brisk walking, yoga, dancing, or hitting the gym, physical activity has a profound impact on mental well-being. It allows for increased awareness, offers spaces for self-expression, self-care and decompression.
Mental benefits of regular movement
1. Stress Reduction:
Physical activity triggers the release of endorphins, neurotransmitters that act as natural painkillers and mood elevators. This flood of feel-good chemicals helps alleviate stress and anxiety, promoting a sense of calm and well-being.
2. Mood Enhancement:
Regular exercise is linked to improved mood and reduced symptoms of depression and anxiety. Engaging in physical activity stimulates various brain chemicals that leave you feeling happier, more relaxed, and less anxious.
3. Cognitive Function:
Movement isn't just beneficial for the body; it's also a boon for the brain. Exercise promotes the growth of new brain cells and improves overall brain function, including memory, concentration, and cognitive abilities.
4. Social Connection:
Many forms of movement, such as team sports or group fitness classes, provide opportunities for social interaction and support. Building connections with others can boost self-esteem, reduce feelings of loneliness, and foster a sense of belonging.
Movement Matters
Whenever I feel contracted, challenged, anxious, movement is one of my key tools to immediate betterment. I move my self into nature, embrace the movements nature offers and let her be mirrored within my own body.
Movement can be anything – swimming, slow, gentle yoga, simply rolling around on my mat, dance, stomping, running, working out, long walks, short walks, spirals with my spine. Deep listening encourages us to understand what we need. And there is always a way to come to movement.
Moving Towards Better Mental Health
As we strive to raise awareness about mental health and promote well-being for all, one way we can look at it is through the angle of the power of movement. By embracing physical movement as a cornerstone of mental wellness, we can cultivate happier, healthier communities where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. Together, let's take a step – or a dance – towards a brighter, more mentally resilient future.
Other ways to consider outside of movement are ways to remind ourselves about rest, nurture, mindful presence and a healthy community. The idea of moving beyond the body for a brief moment and into the spiritual world invites in the opportunity for special tokens or talismans, to carry with us when movement is not possible. These talismans are here to remind us of who we truly are, when things get wobbly and being with both feet on earth is hardly enough. This selection couldn't be more fitting.
'One Day at a Time' Ring
'Gentle Devotion' Necklace
'Live by The Truth' Earrings
'Through It All' Ring
'From Darkness To Light' Ring
