Unlocking the Power of Movement for Mental Clarity and Growth
Written on
The Significance of Movement
This morning began with a disappointment—a text from my client canceling our scheduled session. I had awoken early, eager to meditate and prepare for the day ahead, only to find my plans disrupted. My entire day revolved around this meeting, which included time for writing, a gym session, and a few phone calls. Losing this pivotal part of my day left me feeling off-kilter.
Engaging with clients adds immense value to my life. When appointments are missed, I feel a void where joy and connection should be. Writing, while fulfilling, can often feel isolating. Unless part of a collaborative team, the act of writing can be solitary, and the energy I gain from interacting with clients is irreplaceable. Helping someone on their journey is immensely gratifying.
The absence of this interaction leaves me feeling less productive, as though I haven't fully realized my potential for contribution. I yearn to express myself completely.
An intrinsic part of me thrives on teaching, similar to how writing invigorates me. That's the underlying reason for my disappointment when sessions are canceled—I feel as though my purpose is being interrupted.
This may seem exaggerated, but the satisfaction derived from effective teaching is profound. Sharing valuable knowledge that can positively impact others is a remarkable experience. Without my client this morning, I found myself at the keyboard much earlier than usual, reflecting on the conversations we could have had.
This particular client enjoys delving into topics like philosophy, psychology, and spirituality during our self-defense training. Combining these discussions with physical training feels heavenly. I need to work with individuals who are captivating enough to engage with deeply; merely teaching the mechanics of punching and kicking would bore me. Meaningful conversations during intense workouts enhance the experience.
Engaging in dialogue while physically exerting yourself alters your perspective on personal challenges. When anxiety is transformed into physical activity, it allows for clearer evaluations of situations. The adrenaline and cortisol that accompany anxiety are redirected into the workout, creating space for more honest communication free from the tension that often constrains us.
Finding Clarity Through Physical Expression
In one memorable therapy session, my therapist encouraged me to express my feelings through a unique exercise. He provided me with a wiffle ball bat and a set of pillows representing my parents, instructing me to hit the pillows while articulating my emotions. Initially reluctant due to my love for them, I eventually let go of my hesitations, striking the pillows more forcefully as my frustrations poured out. This cathartic release culminated in tears, leading to newfound clarity beneath the exhaustion.
This is the essence of what I aspire to offer my clients—a chance to uncover deeper, more authentic parts of themselves through physical activity.
When individuals can freely express themselves physically, internal barriers dissolve. The tension that previously stifled them dissipates, opening the door to vulnerability and honesty.
Unexpressed physical energy cannot remain dormant indefinitely. Psychological burdens can weigh heavily, but without positive outlets, this pent-up energy can lead to self-destructive behaviors. Athletes and artists, in particular, require avenues for expression; otherwise, their non-conformist energy may become overwhelming, resulting in negative actions.
The Rise of Destruction Therapy
In recent years, businesses have emerged where individuals can unleash pent-up energy by destroying objects. Equipped with safety goggles and sledgehammers, patrons are invited to demolish everything from microwaves to furniture for relief.
I often wonder how these individuals would feel about their emotions after such an experience. Would their perspective shift? Would they feel more compassion and empathy? Engaging in destruction could lead to newfound insights—if they can reflect before their adrenaline levels normalize.
Releasing what we interpret as anger or aggression often reveals underlying fear. Once fatigue sets in, that fear becomes more visible and manageable. After rigorous physical activity, logical thinking can replace emotional responses.
One of the most challenging experiences before or during athletic events is an adrenaline dump. When athletes warm up too soon or experience excessive anxiety, adrenaline levels can spike prematurely, leading to a subsequent crash when they need it most. This leaves them feeling sluggish and disconnected.
However, this state can also be an opportunity for reflection and conversation. With lowered defenses, individuals may find themselves more receptive to new ideas and suggestions.
Many perceive workouts purely as a means to maintain fitness or as a fun pastime. However, the potential for exercise to facilitate deep introspection and emotional expression should not be overlooked.
The first video titled "Simple Exercises to Move More Throughout the Day with Physical Therapist Peiting Lien" highlights how integrating movement into daily routines can enhance both physical and mental well-being.
The second video, "A Physical Therapist Demonstrates a Simple, Effective Body Weight Exercise Routine," showcases an efficient body-weight workout that can be done anywhere, emphasizing the importance of physical activity for overall health.
Engaging in post-workout reflection can yield insights that are only visible when sweat is pouring down. This journey not only builds physical strength but also nurtures emotional resilience.
Sign up for my monthly newsletter! Visit my website, InternalJiuJitsu.com for exclusive content. My new book, Brokedown Sensei: How I Fought Trauma and Bipolar Disorder From The Outside In, is now available on Amazon. Don't forget to check out my Mental Wellness Workbook, a valuable tool for starting your journaling journey, also available on Amazon. Additionally, my full virtual talk titled "Nuclear Fusion, Trauma Recovery and The Hero’s Journey" is available on the InternalJiuJitsu YouTube Channel.