Author: Claire Meniktas
Movement is such an important part of our daily lives and arguably, after Covid-19, it has become even more essential. Very few of us are professionally trained or practicing dancers, but that doesn't mean we don't like to move, and it surely doesn't mean we shouldn’t. Movement is healing. Whether you are struggling with mental health issues, a physical injury, or a chronic condition, allowing your body to freely exist and move within time and space is a therapeutic experience. The breadth of situations that dance and movement therapy can help alleviate, is truly incredible and shows it really can be beneficial for everyone.
Dance and movement has been an outlet for me for as long as I can remember. Whether it be a full blown dance party or simply swaying to a song I love, movement can both calm me down when feeling overwhelmed, and open me up when anxious or tense. It may seem like a very simple answer when faced with some of life's complicated problems, but its affects, for me and many others, have proven to be next to astounding. In life, we are often restricted in both how we think and behave, in ways trying to fit a mold. Movement helps break those barriers and return to your sense of self. Being alive is beautiful, and what better way is there to celebrate life than to dance, move, show, and experience how truly joyful life can be.
Plus one is a wonderful organization that is dedicated to helping others, and many of the ways in which they do so is by getting people to move. By allowing and giving people a space to feel safe and truly work to find strength, Plus One is changing lives. If you are ever feeling stuck, whether that be within yourself, in life, your career choices, or otherwise, just move your body and dance. Although trivial sounding, it is an activity that can open your mind, remind you of your capabilities, and ultimately leave you feeling empowered.
Sources:
White Swan Foundation. “Understanding Movement Therapy.” White Swan Foundation, 28 Sept. 2015, www.whiteswanfoundation.org/mental-health-matters/understanding-mental-health/understanding-movement-therapy