Bend So You Don’t Break

TLDR: Research from different fields suggests significant interconnections between physical flexibility, mental flexibility (cognitive flexibility and psychological flexibility), and emotional flexibility (emotional regulation and well-being). Practices that promote one type of flexibility often positively influence the others, highlighting the importance of a holistic approach to well-being.

1. Physical Flexibility and Mental Flexibility:

• Studies on older adults: Research indicates that physically active older adults tend to have greater variability in brain activity at rest, which is associated with better cognitive performance, including mental flexibility. This suggests a link between physical fitness and cognitive function.
• Mind-body practices: Activities like yoga, Tai Chi, and Pilates improve physical flexibility and also incorporate mindfulness and meditation, which are known to enhance mental clarity and cognitive flexibility. These practices emphasize the interconnectedness of the mind and body.
• Neuroplasticity: Physical activity is known to promote neuroplasticity, the brain’s ability to reorganize itself by forming new neural connections. This could potentially contribute to enhanced cognitive flexibility.

2. Mental Flexibility and Emotional Flexibility:

• Psychological Flexibility: This concept, often used in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), refers to the ability to adapt to situational demands, shift perspectives, and persist with values-driven actions even in the presence of difficult thoughts and emotions. It is considered a key aspect of mental health and well-being.
• Emotional Regulation: Mental flexibility is closely related to emotional regulation, which is the ability to manage and respond to emotions effectively. A flexible mind allows for a wider range of coping strategies and the ability to choose responses rather than being overwhelmed by emotions.
• Mindfulness: Practices that cultivate mental flexibility, such as mindfulness, also improve emotional awareness and regulation by allowing individuals to observe their emotions without judgment and react more skillfully.

3. Physical Flexibility and Emotional Flexibility:

• Stress Reduction: Physical activity and improved flexibility can reduce stress and muscle tension, which can have a positive impact on emotional well-being. Stress often leads to rigid thinking and emotional reactivity.
• Body Awareness: Practices that enhance physical flexibility, like yoga and body scan meditations, can increase body awareness and the ability to recognize the physical manifestations of emotions. This can improve emotional regulation.
• Exercise and Mood: Exercise, which often improves flexibility, releases endorphins and has been shown to reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety, contributing to greater emotional stability and flexibility.

Join us for a day of refreshing exploration in flexibility gently bending, so you don’t break.
You can also create a custom session to incorporate the components that are valuable to you