by Allie Cole, The Dot Ambassador

Happy Thursday Loves—

As we are FINALLY, starting to see the sun again and finding ourselves in a time of transition, I’ve been rediscovering what is most important to me. Lately, I’ve been finding inspiration in the power of movement; specifically, the idea that Movement is Meditation. While scrolling Instagram this week, I happened upon a post from a woman I have admired for years. She was discussing how movement can be a form of meditation. I was struck by the power of that idea: Movement is Meditation. I have always been an active person, and I never understood why in order to feel good I had to move my body. I’m talking full out dance party or a bass bumping cycle class. My loved ones like to say that I am like the Snickers commercial; I’m not me when I haven’t worked out. That’s because, I am clearer headed and better performing when I move my body. I’ve come to the realization that for me, movement is meditation.

Exercise for me is an absolute non-negotiable. For many years I thought it was because of all the health benefits that come with regular exercise, and how I have always strived to be fit and healthy. At some point though, exercise became much more than just something I have to do for aesthetics or I should do for my health; it became something I needed to survive. After all, endorphins are a powerful thing (Elle Woods reminded us of that)! In December of 2018, I walked into a cycle class for the first time. This class became the backbone of my fitness routine and was the most fun I had in years, fostering some of my most cherished friendships. Complete with blaring music, bumping base, and strangers dancing next to each other on stationary bikes, it was anything but calm.

It was in that class I became staunchly aware of how good it feels to be completely present in your body while it is in motion.

It was in that class I became staunchly aware of how good it feels to be completely present in your body while it is in motion.

This realization changed my life, because I was completely present and, through that, I found absolute clarity. I found health: spiritual, mental, and physical.

When I was presented with the idea that movement is meditation, I realized something powerful. You can find meditation and absolute peace in utter chaos. Although I enjoy quiet meditation and yoga (and incorporate both of those practices into my life when I can), I realized that there is a reason I feel an overwhelming sense of peace after I move my body. Whether it is a walk, a HIIT class, a cycle class, or good old fashioned weight training, there is something about feeling the unconditional power of exertion. The sheer clarity that comes from being fully present in your body. The mind-body connection is necessary for us to honor. No matter the movement you choose, there is a certain freedom that comes when we quiet our minds, sit in the chaos, and focus on pushing through. In this after-exercise high, I realize a feeling of pure exhilaration. It is then when I can be the best version of myself as a professional, friend, partner, and—most of all—a person.

Truthfully, I find quietness and mindfulness intimidating at times. In a world where our thoughts are always moving, pausing for a moment to be still and quiet can be difficult.

In a world where our thoughts are always moving, pausing for a moment to be still and quiet can be difficult. There is always something to worry about: your next deadline, your next meeting, what you’re having for dinner, your next gathering, what you’re doing with your life in general. 

There is always something to worry about: your next deadline, your next meeting, what you’re having for dinner, your next gathering, what you’re doing with your life in general. Sometimes stopping isn’t the way to find the peace or clarity you need. Sometimes the way to find peace of mind isn’t to change the fact that we are moving a million miles a minute, but to change the way we are moving a million miles a minute.

Movement is meditation.

May you make time to move this week in a way that inspires you. Whether it is dance, walking, running, or strength training. I challenge you to be fully present and find deep connection in yourself. Then go about your day and see how much better it goes.