5 Ways to Rewild Your Movement for a Healthier You

Welcome to another insightful edition of our weekly blog at Rebalance Physical Therapy!

This week, we’re diving into the transformative world of movement, focusing on reconnecting with the natural patterns our bodies were designed for.

In the hustle and bustle of modern life, it’s easy to forget the liberating feeling of unrestricted, free-flowing movement. Join us as we explore “5 Ways to Rewild Your Movement” and rediscover the joy of pain-free, functional mobility.

1. Go Barefoot More Often: Did you know that the soles of our feet host over 200,000 sensory receptors? These receptors play a crucial role in stabilizing our body as we navigate through space. Unfortunately, the modern lifestyle, dominated by socks and shoes, can dampen this natural connection. Embrace the freedom of movement by going barefoot inside and outside whenever possible. Opt for shoes that mimic the natural movement of your feet, allowing those sensory receptors to come alive.
2. Spend More Time on the Ground: While our cozy couches may offer comfort, they don’t provide the positive inputs our joints and muscles need. Explore various kneeling and squatting postures that naturally enhance joint range of motion and strength. Small modifications to your resting positions can have a significant impact on your overall movement and health. Embrace the ground as a foundation for dynamic and athletic types of movement.
3. Hang When You Can: Give your shoulders, neck, and entire body a boost by incorporating hanging into your routine. Whether at the gym, playground, or using a tree at home, hanging promotes the health and longevity of your upper body. Our shoulders are designed for overhead activities, and hanging helps maintain this natural ability. Experiment with different grips, swing like the monkey bars, or hang with one hand at a time to strengthen your grip and enhance overall well-being.
4. Play Like a Child: Inject a playful spirit into your exercise routine. Engaging in playful movements not only increases the likelihood of consistent exercise but also stimulates the mind, boosts creativity, and relieves stress. When your workout feels like play rather than a chore, you’re more likely to establish a long-standing habit. Rediscover the joy of movement by incorporating elements of play into your fitness routine.
5. Utilize Skilled Physical Therapy: If the aforementioned steps don’t come easily or pain-free, it might be time to seek the guidance of a skilled physical therapist. Limitations in going barefoot, spending time on the ground, hanging, or engaging in playful movement could be underlying reasons for occasional aches and pains. Skilled manual therapy, dry needling, and specific exercises can help you get back on track, enabling you to move with the agility and freedom of your younger self.

Embrace the journey of rewilding your movement and unlocking the full potential of your body.

By incorporating these five tips into your routine, you’ll not only enhance your physical well-being but also rediscover the joy and freedom that come with natural, unrestricted movement.