Movement

The body is a route through which we can engage with, know and feel connected to ourselves, others and the world around us

Movement that is carried out with care and within safe boundaries can help with:

• Calming the mind and body
• Physical health
• Stimulating brain chemicals that elevate mood
• Thinking, learning, and memory
• Interacting with others and the world
• Communication and expression
• Rest and sleep
• Improving alertness and increasing energy
• Reducing stress

Maximising physical health creates the optimum conditions for mental health. Movement affects all systems of our body, from circulation to digestion to metabolism to immunity. With movement, our bodies regulate hormone activity, detoxify and respire. Movement promotes chemical changes in the body and stimulates neural pathways which promote healing and boost immunity. Studies have demonstrated that regular activity builds muscle and bone, reduces fat, increases aerobic capacity, lowers blood pressure, and improves cholesterol levels.

The health benefits of movement are not limited to the body

Movement also supports brain function by supplying oxygen to brain cells and enhances cognition by boosting neural connectivity. For example, studies show that children learn better, behave better and display better social skills when they have regular opportunities for movement throughout the day

Movement and posture can cultivate greater awareness of our body, of who we are, the way we are seen by others and the way we interact

When you move or touch a part of the body you increase connections to the brain and increase awareness of that area thereby developing proprioception, which is our sense of where our body is in space.

Posture can affect mood and mood can be altered by changing posture

Good posture, which for most is when the spine is erect and in good alignment and when we are not slumped or hunched over, has been associated with higher self-esteem, less social fear and fewer negative emotions. Good posture can also increase testosterone, which makes us feel more confident and decrease cortisol, a hormone associated with stress. Sitting in a collapsed position makes it more likely that negative thoughts and memories will arise, while sitting in an upright position makes gives rise to more positive thoughts and memories.

Research and evidence on movement