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Key points
- Physical movement can facilitate a sense of capability and empowerment.
- When moving, we are connecting to the present moment felt experience of our bodies rather than being caught in thoughts about our bodies.
- Define movement broadly—it can be whatever you want it to be—and engage in movement that makes you feel capable and is fun.
A "sense of agency" refers to having control over our actions, of making something happen. I’m physically disabled, and one way I cope with my physical limitations is by cultivating agency in my body and strengthening the belief that my body is capable even when it doesn’t feel capable. The main way I do so is by physically moving. When I’m moving, I am actively reminding myself of what my body can do. I am connecting to the present moment felt experience of my body rather than thinking about my body.
It is so easy to get caught in thoughts about our bodies. Thoughts of what they can and cannot do. What they look like. How we would like to change them. Or, it is easy to focus on unpleasant physical sensations—pain, soreness, fatigue. It is rarer to focus on what our bodies are doing, and how they are more broadly feeling, right in this moment.
Movement allows me to have an empowering experience with my body. When moving, I am naturally more focused on what my body can do rather than what it can’t. I am able, not disabled. Recently I had COVID-19 and did not move much for a couple of weeks. Once I felt better and started moving my body again, I had a clear sense of coming back to my body. I felt more connected, more whole, more myself.
It is important to define movement broadly based on your individual needs. Going for a run is moving as is stretching or gently raising your arms or legs while sitting in a chair. Defining movement too rigidly can limit you and potentially hinder the development of agency in your body.
What type of movement makes you feel capable, strong, and powerful?
It is empowering to engage in movement that makes you feel capable and confident. I often like to take the stairs. Not necessarily because I am trying to get more steps or exercise, but because I can. I like to feel my heart pumping and my muscles working. It makes me feel strong and reminds me of what my body is able to do. Taking the stairs is a privilege. It is an option for many of us, but not all of us.
What type of movement is fun?
Moving does not need to be a chore. It can be whatever you want it to be. The more enjoyable movement is, the more you may do it, which creates the opportunity for an increased sense of agency. What sounds enjoyable to you? Walking, dancing, hiking, swimming, stretching—there are a lot of options. Also, consider making movement social; you may find it more enjoyable. Set up a walking date with a friend or join a group exercise class.
We tend to think of physical movement as exercise, as a way to create a certain body size or shape or meet fitness goals. It is much bigger than that. Movement is an avenue to enhance personal agency and power. Broadly defined, it is also a representation of diversity, of how there is not one way to move, one way for bodies to exist.
How will you move today?
