Movement Lab

  Flow in Movement-Based Meditative Practices Meditation is commonly associated with sitting silently and calming the mind. But movement-based meditative disciplines like yoga, Tai Chi, ecstatic dance, and even running also aim to cultivate mindfulness and inner focus through flowing sequences of poses or steps. The principles of flow psychology align seamlessly with these dynamic meditations in motion.   Movement Meditation Practices Practices like yoga, Tai Chi, Qigong, ecstatic dance, and walking/running meditations all use physical motion to improve both mental and physical health.   Benefits include: Reduced stress and anxiety Increased mental focus and clarity Improved balance, flexibility, and mobility Heightened mind-body awareness and connection Sense of inner peace and joy Spiritual growth and self-discovery   These practices range from the slow, gentle flows of Tai Chi to vigorous Vinyasa yoga flows to free-form ecstatic dance. But ...

Legend tells of the mighty oak tree and supple willow snapping under furious storms while humble blades of grass survive by bending without breaking. Such flexible resilience epitomizes the steady serenity parents must model as young martial artists inevitably face storms of confusion, setbacks and perceived failures while charting their unique path toward progress. Convey through unflappable presence that falling provides opportunity for learning while persistent practice leads to eventual mastery.     Avoid over-attaching to rigid markers of "success" like tournament wins or rapid belt advancement which impose unrealistic expectations given children's vastly different physiological and motivational developmental timelines. Resist the nearly irresistible temptation to compare your child to others. Instead stay laser focused on their personal progress relative to their own starting line. Measure growth through a child-centered rather than comparison lens.   Refrai...

Boosting Brain Chemicals When Neurotransmission Falters   Instructors should be alert for signs of low dopamine, oxytocin, serotonin or endorphins in students. Deficiencies in these critical neurotransmitters can inhibit motivation, bonding, mood, and pain tolerance. But targeted strategies can help get brain chemicals back in balance.   Spotting Neurotransmitter Shortfalls   Lack of motivation, focus, coordination, or feelings of reward may indicate low dopamine. Difficulty trusting others and social withdrawal can signal inadequate oxytocin.   Depressed mood, anxiety, irritability, or aggression can reflect poor serotonin function. And an inability to push past discomfort may arise from endorphin deficiency.   Kids with ADHD, anxiety, depression, or autism spectrum disorders often have suboptimal neurotransmitter levels. Inquire about mental health diagnoses and medications.   Diet, Supplements, Medication   Consulting a d...

  Peak Performance Aging: A 6-Week Journey to Thriving Later   Embark on a transformative journey towards peak performance aging! This 6-week course, delivered in bite-sized weekly modules, has equipped you with knowledge, tools, and inspiration to optimize your physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Each module focused on a key aspect of peak performance aging, culminating in a thought-provoking question to ponder and integrate into your life.   Week 1: Reframing Aging – Shattering Stereotypes, Embracing Possibilities Thought to ponder:  What limiting belief about aging are you ready to challenge this week? Week 2: The Power of Mindset – Cultivating Growth for Lifelong Potential Thought to ponder:  How can you reframe a recent challenge with a growth mindset perspective? Week 3: Flow and Focus – Unlocking Peak Performance States Thought to ponder:  What activity brings you into a state of flow, and how can you ...

  Part 6: Rule-Following and Play - Shaping Moral Decision-Making in the Playful Realm   Navigating the Ethical Landscape: The Interplay Between Rule-Following and Moral Development As we continue our journey through the intricate relationship between play and morality, our focus now shifts to the crucial role of rule-following in shaping moral decision-making. Rule-following in the context of play goes beyond mere adherence to instructions; it becomes a dynamic process through which individuals explore the foundations of morality, learn about fairness, and internalize societal norms. In this segment, we unravel the layers of this interplay, examining how the characteristics of play provide a unique platform for the development of moral reasoning through rule-following.   The Essence of Rule-Following in Play: More Than Just Guidelines Before delving into the connection between rule-following and morality, let's dissect the essence of rule-following in the con...

  The Art of Parkour and Flow Parkour, also known as freerunning or urban gymnastics, is the physical discipline of navigating environments by running, climbing, jumping and vaulting over obstacles. Beyond the flashy acrobatics, parkour is very much a mental practice and learning to achieve flow is key to mastering the sport. By cultivating focus, presence, and courage, traceurs (parkour practitioners) enter immersive flow states during training and competition.   The Mental Side of Parkour Performing seemingly gravity-defying jumps and stunts requires technical skill. But seasoned traceurs emphasize that elite parkour is at least 80% mental. Managing fear, anxiety and hesitation is critical for successful flow. Traceurs use parkour to train both body and mind in seamless flow. Staying fully present and in the moment allows them to find creative "lines" through any environment.   Mindfulness and Focus Flow states depend on deep mindfulness and shutting out distrac...