We’ve all heard the old adage, “move your body and your mind will follow”. There is a reason we’ve all heard this before and that is because it’s true. Science has shown that the mind-body connection is a powerful one. Scientists around the world have been studying the effects physical activity has on mental abilities and the results are astounding. Without getting too academic, because this piece is about action, know that movement is incredibly important in invigorating that big piece of equipment that sits on top of your neck – the brain!
As we’ve all felt after chasing after the bus, catching up with our kids or walking quickly down the street when we are late for a movie, an increase in movement leads to an increase in breathing, an in increase in heart rate and sometimes a little sweating. On the inside, the muscle movement and breathing is helping to pump more oxygen rich blood through your body. The increase in blood flow delivering much needed oxygen to all parts of your body while helping to eliminate waste. When you move, your brain gets more oxygen – fuel for thinking. It’s no wonder that some of the best ideas come during a run or in yoga class.
Now that we have a general overview of the physiology let’s also talk about the mental aspect of movement. Have you ever had one of those days where you sat at your desk staring at your computer trying to solve a problem with no success? Or spent the day feeling brain dead and unable to remove yourself from bad TV because somehow the more you sat there, the more you felt drained? Part of that is the physiology we just discussed but the other part, I believe, is a change in environment and hence a change in perception. A creative brain needs creative environments. I don’t mean going to an art museum, although a great idea, but I do mean getting out of your typical environment (home, office) and soaking in a new one. This can be walking around your neighborhood, going to the gym, taking a break to go to the library, etc. I find the change in visuals lead to a change in thinking.
This is why MOVE is part of the 7 tenets of innervations. We all must get up and move for the health of our bodies and our brains.
Even if you sweat it out at the gym every day, moments of movement during work or at home can be a very powerful ally in opening up your mind and body. Here are a few simple ways to get the blood pumping and the braining thinking that can be done anytime, anywhere!
1. Downdog: My favorite yoga pose. Spend 10 full breaths in this pose for a little invigoration. If you can, do an entire sun salutation.
2. Walk: go to the printer, the mailbox or down the street. Carve out 5 minutes for walking every 60 -90 minutes in your day. Your brain and your energy level will thank you.
3. Doorway stretch: Use a doorway as leverage to stretch out your chest. Place forearm against doorway and gently twist. For a leg stretch, hold on to door with one hand and grab your foot behind you with the other. Gently stretch your quads (front thigh). Do a deep bend, hinging at the hips for a deep hamstring (back thigh) and back stretch
4. Clean, do dishes by hand, vacuum, go get the mail, garden, walk laundry up and down stairs. There are plenty of ways to add movement to your day!
5. Walk the dog. If you have a dog there is really no excuse for going around the block a few times a day.
6. If you want to walk and enjoy new scenery I suggest any type of museum, the zoo or even the mall. You never know what you’ll see!
Dream big. Dream often. Sweat a lot!
Tags: creative exercises, creative play, creativity, denver moms, exercises for imagination, imaginibbles, innervate, innovation, parenting activities, right brain exercises, tamara kleinberg
