Mind the Gap

The Mind and Body Connection

Travelling back from London the other day, from one of the spaces I practice psychotherapy, the familiar (for those of you who use the Tube system) announcement of ‘Mind the Gap between the train and platform’ struck a chord with me, when thinking about writing this introductory blog.

It is a helpful metaphor in thinking about how our well being is often treated in distinct parts. For instance our emotional well being often termed mental health is treated separately from our physical health, and yet each interacts with and relies on the other. Much like the platform does with a train.

The distinction has been accentuated between our mind and our body more likely due to a resources led dynamic. It makes sense that dividing parts of ourselves is especially helpful when a course to action (treatment) is required, as we can target resources more efficiently. It can often provide some certainty too, as keeping our ‘whole system’ in mind, may feel quite an overwhelming task when, for instance, focusing on a ‘sore toe’ can feel somewhat more manageable. It can also provide an opportunity too, to hyper focus and refine one’s understanding. However rather like the expression of one cannot see the wood for the trees, you can feel lost with either end of the equation. As a side note, did you know the large toe in reflexology represents the brain?

Playing with the distinctions and integrating them is what makes Experience Light an exciting place. The collaboration between us is on offering a space whereby attention to the mind, body and spirit can be experienced all under one roof. By choosing amongst the differing yoga classes, sound baths, talking therapy, massage or shamanic experiences; each brings with it a particular focus whilst understanding and acknowledging essential awareness to the other parts of self and beyond.

The physical space can symbolically represent the distinctions and yet is seamlessly integrated. Upon entering you are instantly transported to a delightful calming yoga area where sound gongs and singing bowls live and which follows on to a private and connected area where talking therapy takes place. There is space for shamanic workshops and individual experiences as well as therapeutic groups too. Indian head massage and hot and cold stone massages take place down a few steps into a cosy cavern, a safe space too.

Regulation of your nervous system through many mediums such as

Yoga

Meditation

Music

Movement

Massage and

Talking Therapies

all of which are available at Experience Light, has been a particular focus of evidence based research in mental health in recent years.

For when the body may be speaking for what the mind is unable to express, especially in language or perhaps when the mind speaks loudly without the body, a separation occurs, and our whole being can feel disassociated. This can be helpful at times as it can give us a degree of temporary safety, but if consistent over time, it can reduce our connection not only to the rest of ourselves but to people and the world around us. Coming back into balance, whether you choose one or feel a pull to experience all that we offer, a holistic approach to our well being is fundamental to a temperate and harmonious life.

Maria