Mindful movements are a mind-body approach to exercise and are designed to be accessible to as many people as possible. Far from being another exercise program, Mindful Movements are for all those wanting to add a gentle but physical element to their daily life.
What is Mindful Movement?
Mindful movement can be completed sitting, standing or laying down and these sessions will include elements from each area. All the movements are adaptable so suitable for all ages and ability. For example if you are unable to get up and down from the floor then the sitting or standing completing the movements will be preferable.
The Benefit
Based on the Qigong and Tai Chi forms of mediation the movements help to reduce stress and tension and gently energize the body and quieten the mind
From a scientific perspective;
Meditation is a state where the brain waves slow down.
Brain waves are categorised into four types each with a different wave pattern that can be measured on an EEG (Electroencephalogram).
- Beta ( 15 – 40 waves per sec.) This is our awake and active state and is associated with fast, logical thinking and high levels of alertness
- Alpha ( 8 – 15 waves per sec.) Our relaxed peaceful, creative state of mind associated with light meditation, concentration and enhanced learning capability
- Theta ( 4 – 8 waves per sec.) This state occurs in deeper relaxation and meditation and also in light sleep and dreaming. This is a very receptive, intuitive state where inspiration and insight occur.
- Delta ( 0.5 – 4 waves per sec.) The state of deep, dreamless sleep and deep mediation. Delta is associated with the unconscious mind, and usually only experienced meditators reach this state.
Our bodies heal and regenerate when the brain is in Theta and delta signal frequencies, and this is one reason that high –quality sleep is essential to our health, Meditation acts in a similar way to quality sleep but while we are awake.
In addition, there are specific physical benefits associated with each of these mindful movement practices. Moving mindfully – slowly- with your breath -while paying attention—brings health and happiness. You will have a new quiet energy, feelings of contentment and a clarity of mind that comes with enhanced intuition. In addition the ancients believed these movements calm your mental and emotional being AND—give long life.