By: Erica Hornthal, CEO of Chicago Dance Therapy
As a dance/movement therapist, I have always known that the mind and body are connected. I see it in my clients who carry scars of physical abuse, emotional abuse, tragic loss, debilitating illnesses and crippling anxiety. This tip is a reminder to pay attention to your body and know that there is a psychological component to your movement or even lack thereof.?Whether or not you consider yourself an athlete, it is beneficial to move everyday and pay attention to what your body is saying.? So what can we do to be more present to the psychological impact that our bodies endure?
- Never underestimate the power of your breath. Not only taking time to breathe, but notice how deeply you are breathing. The bodies ability to breathe can become compromised due to stress. Allowing for “breath breaks” throughout the day actually alleviates the buildup of stress and calms the nervous system.
- Check in with your physical health every day. Make sure to move your body throughout the day to see what feels good and what doesn’t. Notice aches and pains that weren’t there before. Pain is your body’s way of telling you that something is not right.
- Mental health is physical health.? There is a connection between mind and body even if you are not aware of it.? Everything you encounter emotionally, your body feels.? Take time to recognize that connections.
- Make an appointment for a mental health checkup. Make your mental health a priority. Don’t wait for a reason to see a mental health provider. Be proactive!? Call Chicago Dance Therapy for a mental health check today!
Erica Hornthal is a licensed professional clinical counselor and board certified
dance/movement therapist. She received her MA in Dance/Movement Therapy and Counseling from Columbia College Chicago and her BS in psychology from University of Illinois Champaign-Urbana.? Erica is the founder and president of North Shore Dance Therapy and Chicago Dance Therapy.? As a psychotherapist in private practice, Erica specializes in working with older adults who are diagnosed with dementia and movement disorders.? Her work has been highlighted nationally in Social Work Magazine, Natural Awakenings, and locally in the Chicago Tribune as well as on WCIU and WGN.
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