Background information
Our behaviour and thoughts have an impact on our bodies, and body sensations impact on our mood, behaviour and thoughts.
For example, during the Clap impulse we are active, focused and present – which makes us more relaxed in our bodies (deeper breathing, calmer heartbeat, parasympathetic nervous system is activated) – which influences our feelings; towards a sense of feeling more balanced and calm. (Note: negative feelings can still remain, but there is an emphasis on noticing and not judging within mindfulness).
Body sensation is important to note emotions. Body sensation is of particular importance in bouldering (esp. one’s centre of gravity in the body), for example for stabilising one’s position on the wall. A focus on mindful climbing is therefore more important than how far/successful one climbs. By establishing a mindful attitude and a focus on one’s own strength and control it is hoped that participants take away ideas on how to be mindful of how they can perceive emotions too.
The goal of this session is to invite participant’s observation and awareness of this body-emotion connection.
Key questions
- How did you feel in your body/mind?
- How does your body feel now?
- How does your breathing feel now (deep, free?) Where are you in your thoughts (do you worry about problems?) What is your mood?
- Why do I need to feel my body? (to not loose balance)
- Did you sense how you can shift your centre of gravity?
- Where do you feel your centre?
Learning goals
Get to know the impact of bodily activity on mood/thoughts.
Gain understanding of the connection between behaviours – body – thoughts – feelings.
Understand body perception as a necessary condition to notice emotions/feelings.
Mindfulness and openness as possibility to influence feelings positively and openly (in contrast to being focused on success and judging oneself).
