In this episode of the podcast, I’m going to talk about four of the most interesting benefits of mindful movement...that you probably haven’t heard about. Do you find it motivating to know how your practice is benefiting you? Or are you (perhaps) the kind of person that won’t decide to do a new activity unless you really understand why it’s worth your time and effort?  I can absolutely relate to that, so that’s why this episode is going to be dedicated to talking about some of the many benefits of mindful movement practice. I’ll be highlighting four interesting possibilities that you probably haven’t heard about, so we’re going beyond the standard list of positive outcomes (like stress relief, improved focus, and physical relaxation). You’ll hear about:  feel-good chemicals (called myokines) that your muscles release, even with gentle movement how working with pace and slowing down your movements (motor inhibtion) can translate to better physical balance AND emotional balance how moving in synchrony with others promotes empathy and openness and how mindful movement can be a form of embodied learning. As you’ll hear, some of the mindful movement benefits I mention are examples of how these practices can support us psychologically and even socially, if we’re paying attention on those different levels. And, a few of these benefits relate to the combination of movement and mindfulness, so there’s a kind of multiplier effect. This episode draws from several different books and research articles, so be sure to check the episode page on my website to find all the links and resources.  I hope you’ll find some of these mindful movement benefits intriguing, thought-provoking, and perhaps motivating! -- For more links and resources mentioned in this episode, find the show notes at movedtomeditate.yoga/podcast. And, you can sign up for your "Library Card" to access this month's FREE practices in the Moved To Meditate Class Library! Feel free to reach out through my website with your thoughts on this episode. You can also connect with me on Instagram at @addie_movedtomeditate (for mindfulness, movement, yoga, and pictures of PNW nature and my adorable kitty, Mustache).