Why movement has become Ava’s medicine

Editor in Chief

Ava Nicols

Writing is usually easier than talking for me. So you can imagine how when my mind is full, the writer’s block, or more truthfully emotional exhaustion causing it, really takes its toll. Luckily, I have learned what works for me when I cannot write–time and time again, I find myself running back to movement to clear my mind.  

I thought of the idea for this article while I was running. In taking that time to care for my mental and physical well-being, the realization that all I can do is be honest and not overthink my writing is evidence that movement is the best medicine. 

I pride myself in being high-functioning; and, I am very much a “pull up my bootstraps’’ kind of girl. But, that is only true to a certain degree. It can be easy for me to get lost in my work, thinking to myself that if I am distracted and still achieving, I am fine and need to just keep going. 

I have seen the impacts of what happens when I make time to clear my head compared to when I don’t. It is a much more pleasant experience—for everyone—and a selfish commitment I am proud of. 

To me, movement looks different depending on the circumstances but it usually comes in the form of hot yoga, walking, or running on the Strand. Each of these individual activities are very mentally healing because of how connected it forces the mind to be one with the body. 

The complexity of our bodies and our brains and their interconnected natures will never fail to amaze me. It really fascinates me that what we do with our physical body (what we eat, how much we exercise, even our mindset) can impact our mental state, positively or negatively. And in my opinion, taking time to achieve that relationship is the highest form of self-respect.  

The correlation between movement and mental health is something I wish everyone could understand because giving yourself the grace of being alone with your thoughts is among the most healing things you could do, and is more beneficial than any medication or coping mechanism.

Healthy movement starts in the mind, revolving around one’s psyche and doing it for the release and in the ways you need.