LET'S GET PHYSICAL

Mental health therapy that moves!  Often our idea of counseling can be that of sitting down with a stranger and being asked to pour out a long history of past events.  There is some truth to that image at times.  But counseling approaches can also take a more physical turn.

It is not uncommon for certain emotions to be carried physically.  Neck, shoulder, and back pain can be caused by muscle tension due to stress and/or anxiety.  Grief is sometimes felt physically in the stomach or heart.  So it makes sense that a therapy approach which includes physical movement can be helpful.

Here are some ways that being physical can help provide therapeutic mental health relief.

As an Anger Release – work out, go for a run, scream into a pillow or private space.  (Caution:  Be aware of your emotional levels.   The goal is to decrease or burnout overwhelming anger.  If anger increases, then pause and reconsider this suggestion.)

Dance Therapy – Put on a song with an upbeat melody that makes you feel good.  Then dance like no one is watching!  Music and movement combined will release emotions and energy.  You can have a dance party all to yourself!

Walking – Walking is scientifically proven to reduce symptoms like depression, anxiety, insomnia.  Walking outside boosts your vitamin D levels and increases those benefits.  A nature walk includes mindfulness to increase awareness of the world around you.

Exercise – Whether you join a gym or log-in to an app, regular exercise provides an excellent brain boost.  The physical benefits of an exercise program include mental health benefits.  And if you join a exercise group there are social benefits connected to that!  It is certainly a win.

Or if you are feeling emotionally unsettled, but can’t use the ideas above, change your position.  Sit up straight, lengthened your spine, breathe from your belly.  Simply repositioning your physical posture can be helpful as an aid to manage emotions.