Mindful Movement
At first glance, dance may seem only a physical discipline, but the mind indeed has a lot to do with learning, endurance in a complicated world, and, of course, mental health.
To understand how mindfulness and dance can be deeply connected, let’s first define what’s not:
- It’s not leaving the mind blank.
- It’s not escaping pain.
- It’s not suppressing emotions.
- It’s not a control technique.
- It’s not a relaxation technique.
- It’s not positive thinking.
Mindfulness is a technique that allows you to improve your quality of life by learning to change the relationship you have with your thoughts and emotions. Getting to regulate aspects such as anxiety or depression through the practice of various meditative techniques.
The definition I feel that suits better is that mindfulness is being present and living in the present moment.
Applying Mindfulness to Dance
Let’s now review the basics of Mindfulness and its application in dance.
Live in the Being and not in the Doing: the Doing mode represents a conceptual cognitive functioning while the Being mode is based on direct experience. Approach dance from this point of view, don’t think or imagine movement as something external to you; be the movement. Live the experience of moving.
Don’t judge: often we are the ones who negatively criticize our technique or movement. This will not allow us to move forward. Look at your qualities and weaknesses more neutrally and scientifically, without adding interpretations or judgments.
Patience: if our mind is constantly preoccupied with achieving future goals, it will be agitated and not focused on the present. Accept the time that each learning process needs and that it cannot be accelerated.
Trust: teachers are guides who accompany us in the learning process but each individual must trust himself and his abilities to deepen the teachings.
Do not fight: the effort in the dance must be persevering and constant, but not violent or exhausting. A kind attitude towards oneself is key in the training of the mind. Not getting angry in the face of difficulties or resistance is essential to enjoy the dance.
And now what about you? Do you apply Mindfulness in your daily life?
We would love to know about your experience!
Feel free to leave a comment below, contact us, or maybe share a video of your Mindful Movement practice on Instagram tagging us @create_mindfulness