**The Power of Movement for Mental Health: A Personal Journey**
As Mental Health Awareness Week approaches (13th to 19th May), the theme of ‘Movement for Mental Health’ is more relevant than ever. Movement, whether it be through running, gentle activities, or fundraising for mental health charities, can have a profound impact on our mental wellness. Dr. Esther Beierl, a renowned data scientist, trial statistician, and psychometrician in psychology and mental health research, shares her personal experience of how movement has been instrumental in her own mental health journey.
**Feeling Safe In Your Body**
Years ago, Dr. Beierl’s therapist asked her a pivotal question: “Do you feel safe in your body?” This question prompted a deep reflection, revealing that she did not feel safe within herself. This realization highlighted the importance of integrating the body into mental health treatments, an area where research has traditionally lagged behind compared to more conventional approaches like medication and therapy.
Dr. Beierl’s struggles with anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, panic attacks, and depression had left her feeling disconnected from her body and emotions. She describes feeling emotionally numb and detached, unable to access her own sensations and thoughts. It was through this disconnect that she discovered the transformative power of movement.
**Finding Freedom in Unconditional Positive Regard**
Dr. Beierl credits her therapist’s unconditional positive regard for creating a safe space for her to explore her emotions and sensations. Through a combination of somatic and emotional integration techniques, she found a deeper connection to her body through exercise. Movement became a source of pleasure and a tool for mental wellness in her journey.
**The Science of Movement**
Research has shown that regular aerobic exercise, resistance training, and yoga can have significant benefits for mental health. While the exact mechanisms of how exercise improves mental well-being are still being studied, the evidence is clear – movement is key to a healthy mind.
**Moving the Body, Calming the Mind**
For Dr. Beierl, different forms of exercise serve different purposes in her mental health routine. Yoga helps her find peace and connection between mind, body, and spirit. Cycling and swimming allow her to clear her thoughts and find creative solutions to problems. Resistance training and calisthenics build her confidence and empower her to be in tune with her body.
**Non-Negotiable Meetings With Myself**
Dr. Beierl considers her exercise sessions as important meetings with herself. She prioritizes these sessions and views them as essential for her well-being. Through movement, she has found strength, resilience, and a deeper understanding of herself.
**In Conclusion**
Dr. Esther Beierl’s journey is a testament to the transformative power of movement for mental health. By integrating her body into her healing process, she has found a sense of safety, connection, and empowerment. As she fundraises for MQ Mental Health Research during Mental Health Awareness Week, she highlights the importance of research in understanding why movement is so vital for mental wellness.
You can connect with Dr. Beierl on social media and follow her fundraising efforts to support mental health research during Mental Health Awareness Week. Let’s join the movement for mental health and prioritize our well-being through the power of movement.
