Mindful Movement
CHOC, now part of Rady Children’s Health, offers a range of evidence-based mindful movement programs designed to improve health and well-being, such as yoga and meditation.
Mindful movement is an activity or exercise performed with awareness, where a focus is placed on noticing and feeling what the mind and body do while engaging in movement. It can involve various mind-body practices such as mediation and yoga. These practices offer a range of health benefits and can help individuals realize their full potential.
Mindful movement is appropriate for everyone, regardless of age or ability level, making it suitable for people with different body types and health conditions. It can be adapted to meet the needs of each individual and delivered across community and clinical settings
Most people practice mindful movement to manage stress and improve health. Yoga in particular is associated with a range of health benefits, such as favorable changes in:
- Mood
- Perceived stress
- Coping skills
- Emotional regulation
- Social connection
- Physical activity
- Flexibility, balance, strength, and endurance
- Body composition
- Well-being and quality of life
- Healthy lifestyle behaviors
Even brief episodes of mindful movement can elevate mood and reduce stress. Practicing mindful movement regularly can lead to long-term improvements in well-being. These practices offer simple tools to support a lifetime of healthy choices and behaviors.
Mindful movement can be restful and relaxing, or uplifting and energizing, depending on your goals. Trying a variety of styles can help you discover which type of mindful movement works best for you.
Jennifer Barrows, PhD, RN, is a nurse scientist at CHOC with a research program focused on integrative health interventions to optimize well-being. She is a certified yoga instructor experienced in theory-based intervention design and evaluation. Please reach out to Dr. Jennifer Barrows if you’d like to share information and/or connect about integrating mindful movement into your health practice: [email protected].