Healing the Mind and Body Through Therapeutic Movement

There is no question that a strong connection exists between our physical and mental well-being. As Gabor Maté states, “research provides further striking evidence that emotional stresses are inseparable from the physical states of our bodies, in illness and health” (The Myth of Normal). Research continues to highlight the therapeutic benefits of movement as an effective and accessible tool for improving both physical and psychological health outcomes. Incorporating therapeutic movement into treatment, or engaging in it as a stand-alone practice, can have significant benefits for overall well-being. Continue reading to learn more about what therapeutic movement is and how it can support your health.

What is Therapeutic Movement

Therapeutic movement can be defined as mindful, intentional movement that strengthens the body while supporting nervous system regulation. According to a study published by the National Institutes of Health (Phuphanich et al., 2020), therapeutic movement practices such as yoga, Pilates, and similar modalities not only improve physical fitness, but also enhance cognitive functioning and mood while reducing pain and other symptoms. The study further found that engaging in therapeutic movement alongside regular medical treatment significantly improved participants’ quality of life and reduced the severity of the symptoms being treated.

Types of Therapeutic Movement

While there are many movement-based activities that fall under this category, at Mind and Body Therapeutic Connections (MBTC) we offer yoga, fitness classes, yoga therapy, and personal training as part of our therapeutic movement programming. Unlike traditional yoga or fitness classes, therapeutic movement classes are informed by research on the mind–body connection and are individualized to meet the unique needs of each participant. Our classes are designed to improve functioning and quality of life, either as a stand-alone support or as an adjunct to medical or mental health treatment.

Yoga therapy is one form of therapeutic movement that offers highly individualized care. Yoga therapy uses specific yoga tools—such as postures, movement, breathwork, meditation, visualization, guided imagery, relaxation techniques, and mindfulness—to address an individual’s physical, mental, and emotional needs. Yoga therapists receive extensive training to ensure safety while working with specific conditions, limitations, or areas of discomfort. Yoga therapy can be beneficial for individuals seeking support for stress reduction, depression, anxiety, trauma and PTSD, autism, ADD/ADHD, and substance use disorders. It may also support those managing physical health concerns such as back pain, insomnia, chronic fatigue, heart conditions, hypertension, and medication side effects. Yoga therapy is an excellent option for those seeking one-on-one, highly personalized care with the benefits of yoga and beyond.

Personal training is another avenue for receiving individualized therapeutic movement support. Personal training allows for personalized goals related to strength, mobility, endurance, and overall fitness. It can be particularly helpful for overcoming barriers such as physical limitations, chronic pain, motivation challenges, or uncertainty about where to begin. With the guidance of a trained professional, individuals can learn safe and effective movement strategies, proper form, and techniques that maximize the benefits of exercise while minimizing the risk of injury.

What Makes Therapeutic Movement Effective?

So, what makes therapeutic movement so effective? Therapeutic movement is an evidence-based approach to improving both mental and physical health. The study by Phuphanich and colleagues (2020) identified five primary benefits of therapeutic movement practices:

1. They decrease fear-avoidance behaviors and empower individuals to take a proactive role in their health and wellness.

2. They are accessible to individuals of all abilities and can be customized to meet specific needs and health conditions.

3. They are safe, cost-effective, and potent adjunctive treatments that complement—rather than replace—standard medical care.

4. They provide patient-centered, integrative care that addresses the physical, psychological, social, and spiritual aspects of health and illness.

5. They offer diverse, evidence-based benefits, including reduced pain, stress, and debility, as well as improvements in range of motion, strength, balance, coordination, cardiovascular health, mood, and cognition.

Is Therapeutic Movement Right For You?

At MBTC, we are committed to providing evidence-informed care that is safe, accessible, and inclusive. This is why we offer a variety of therapeutic movement programs designed to support both physical and mental health goals. Whether you are looking to complement psychotherapy or medical treatment, or simply seeking a more intentional and supportive approach to movement, our therapeutic movement services can help you move toward a healthier,

more connected version of yourself. Interested in learning more or trying a class? Contact us at 919-791-5611 or visit www.mindandbodytc.com to explore which therapeutic movement option may be the best fit for you.