Moving Magic

The wonderful thing about movement is that there isn’t only one way to move that is better than others. We were designed to move, and the opportunities are endless!

As we explore this theme of MOVE, this month’s invitation is to explore and find what feels great in your bones.

Here’s some of my movement story; what’s yours?

I fell in love with swimming years ago after an emotional logjam in a relationship caused severe stress resulting in two bulging discs in my back. My left leg stopped working, and I was in constant pain from hip to toe. I couldn’t sit, I couldn’t stand, and anxiety was constant.

I was living in India at the time, studying and practicing yoga. Seeing the layers of issues that were contributing to my condition, my teacher wisely directed me to move to Mumbai to rest and swim. I found an awesome pool in the section of Mumbai where I lived and started.

In the beginning, I would just float. When submerged in water, our bones and muscles are somewhat free of the constraints of gravity, so the pain in my back and leg diminished. Gradually, my leg began to work again, and I started to swim in earnest. As my body recovered, the mental and emotional conditions that caused the injury began to surface.

Vigorous exercise causes the body to release endorphins that bind with neurotransmitters in the brain to reduce pain symptoms. They help reduce stress, boost immunity, slow the aging process, and create a sense of euphoria.

Like magic, this elevated feeling restored my ability to accept and process the hurt and sadness from a troubled relationship. Within 6 months, I was at peak fitness and happy. I learned that moving can heal the body, the mind, and the heart.

Swimming continues to be an integral part of my wellness practices giving me the ability to move through physical, emotional, and mental challenges as my life unfolds. When things start to back up now, a little voice in my head says, “get in the pool.” And the magic begins again.