Move the Body, Quiet the Mind
It’s easy to see movement as exercise, which doesn’t always sound appealing – especially when we’re overwhelmed, anxious, or depressed. But science shows that movement is one of the most effective ways to overcome those struggles and regulate the nervous system when life feels heavy.
Why It Works
Movement changes your chemistry. As your heart rate rises, your brain releases endorphins, dopamine, and serotonin (the same feel-good chemicals many antidepressants aim to balance.) At the same time, cortisol, the stress hormone that keeps you tense and wired, begins to drop.
(Cortisol reduction, in my experience, is a lifelong project and probably a post of its own.)
Beyond the science, something deeper happens when we move consistently. As those chemicals rebalance, clarity sets in. It feels right. It feels like relief. Isn’t it amazing that a simple walk around the block can shift so much inside us?
Start Small, Stay Honest
Going all-in on a “new you” often leads to burnout. The real key is slow, steady progress. Build a routine you can actually maintain, not one you dread.
Start small. Stretch. Walk. Breathe. Every bit counts. I’m a big believer in getting outside and unplugging whenever possible. My son and I take walks around local parks and ponds, and we’ve found some great trails that clear our heads and reset our energy.
A Call to Action
Next time your mind feels cluttered or the weight of life sets in, move your body – then pay attention to how your mood shifts.
Sometimes healing doesn’t start in the mind. It starts in motion. One small action can change your chemistry, your outlook, and maybe even your day.
If you’d like to dive into this topic deeper, I highly recommend the book “Move the Body, Heal the Mind” by Dr. Jennifer Heisz. It’s got some great stories and examples of how powerful movement can be.
“Every new beginning comes from some other beginnings’ end.”
⁃ Seneca
Written By Daniel Radabaugh & Derek Boyd
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