Moving our body is called a 'bottoms up' approach to change i.e. we start with the body, and it changes the way we feel. Therapy/counselling/coaching is a 'top down' approach i.e. we start with our feelings, and it changes our body/life. Our approach to change is BOTH bottoms up AND top down - and that means they meet in the magic middle.
Now, have you ever noticed how a scent, a song, or even a gesture can transport you back to a moment in time? This phenomenon illustrates the body's memory, where experiences—especially emotional ones—are etched not just in our minds but also in our physical selves.
The Wisdom of Our Bodies
Our bodies are marvelous repositories of memory. Each movement, each posture, can tell a story about our experiences, joys, and even traumas. For instance, think of the way you may tense up during a stressful moment or how a sense of relaxation washes over you when recalling a happy memory.
These physical responses happen before we even have a chance to process them mentally; they are instinctive reactions encoded in our bodies.
Within the realm of Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy, there's a beautiful concept pertaining to how different parts of ourselves respond to our emotions. IFS teaches us that we possess various "parts," some of which may be carrying burdens from past experiences or traumas. These parts can influence our physical posture and movement patterns. For instance, a part that feels anxious may cause you to hunch over, while a part that feels confident may have you standing tall with your shoulders back.
Emotions Drive Movement
When we understand our emotions and their connection to our physical state, we can start to cultivate a greater awareness of ourselves. Let’s take a moment to delve into how this awareness can be transformational.
Imagine you’re at a social gathering and suddenly feel overwhelmed. Perhaps a part of you, anxious and shy, urges you to retreat or blend into the background. This is a representation of how emotions can inform our movements, dictating whether we engage with the world or withdraw from it. Recognizing these moments is essential. When you become aware of your body's language in response to emotions, you can begin to make choices that better serve your overall well-being.
A Comforting Practice to Try
Here’s a simple yet effective practice you can incorporate into your daily life to enhance your awareness of the connection between body and emotion. It’s called “Body Scan with Emotion Check-In.”
1. Find a Comfortable Space: Sit or lie down in a comfortable position. Allow your body to relax.
2. Close Your Eyes: Take a few deep breaths. Inhale deeply through your nose, hold for a moment, and exhale slowly through your mouth.
3. Scan Your Body: Starting from your head down to your toes, gently scan each part of your body. Notice any areas of tension or discomfort. Take your time with this, and shift your attention away/outside as needed.
4. Check Your Emotions: As you reach each part of your body, ask yourself: “What emotions am I feeling here?” If you notice tension in your shoulders, for instance, take a moment to explore what might be contributing to that. Perhaps there’s a feeling of stress or pressure weighing you down.
5. Invite Compassion: As you identify these emotions, invite compassion into the space. Acknowledge these feelings without judgment. Thank your body for holding onto these memories, understanding that it’s doing so to protect you.
As you engage in this practice, remember that emotions are an integral part of being human. By nurturing a connection with your body and its memories, you open a pathway for healing and understanding.
Embrace the dance between your emotions and your movements, and allow yourself to experience the warmth of compassion for all parts of yourself.
Want to find out more about how your mind and body are connect or try IFS? Take a peek here of how to explore more.
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