I Am More Than My Body: The Body Neutral Journey

by Bethany C. Meyers

Next time you do a movement session, try this mindful exercise: Am I . . . ? Feeling connected to my body? Enjoying the release of emotion? Appreciating the functions of my body without criticism? Able to identify areas of tightness, flexibility, pain, and strength? Listening to and honoring my body’s needs? Moving without judgment or set expectations? When we are able to answer yes to these questions, we are on track for participating in neutral movement. On the flip side you may notice that your mindset is less than neutral. Ask yourself these questions: Am I . . . ? Focused on my body’s failings? Concentrating on the amount of time spent in movement rather than how my body feels? Disappointed/hard on myself when I cannot achieve a certain position variation? Comparing myself to others? Labeling my movement as “good” vs. “bad”? Pushing my body dangerously past its limits for the sake of hitting a certain goal/target? If you find yourself answering yes to second set of questions, taking a step back could prove beneficial. Over time, this way of thinking can be detrimental not only to your physical health (injuries and pain), but also to your mental outlook (body dysmorphia, exercise abuse).