The practices I love to guide most go beyond the traditional labels of yoga and meditation… it’s more about moving, breathing and reflecting together, taking time to feel into the body and release stagnant energy, wherever it may be stored from stress or built-up emotional tension.

In releasing tension from our physical body, we learn to free our emotions. In releasing our emotions, we free up our physical body. The mind is often healing in a natural way, when we take time to balance our nervous systems.

Over the past decade, I have been learning from osteopaths, acupuncture and TCM practitioners, physiotherapists and movement coaches. I read neuroscience books to better understand the brain, and am often discussing with peers and friends how talk therapy can be enhanced and supported with regular movement practices.

Many years ago, someone asked me, if I believe we have a body, or if we are our body? I’m still wondering what my answer is… but what I do know, is that my body needs love just as my mind does. They often flourish most, when they are tended to at the same time.

Questions I like to offer at the end of a mind-body practice:

1. How does your physical body feel?

Notice whether anything has changed in your muscles, joints, sensations overall. Does your sense of physical tension or relaxation feel different?

2. How is your mood?

Observe whether any emotions from the beginning of the practice have shifted or moved through you.
3. How is your mind?

Become aware of the quality and the pace of your thoughts. What has changed? What would you like to carry with you into the rest of your day?

If you’re interested in a mind-body practice for yourself or a workshop for your team, please get in touch. Email hello@stephcusackyoga.com for details.