Coronavirus Relaxation Techniques: An Introduction To Non-Linear Movement
The Non-Linear Movement (NLM) method is a somatic practice created by Austrian teacher and counselor Michaela Boehm. The aim of NLM is to soothe the nervous system, process and identify emotions, as well as releasing trauma and seeks to create an intimate connection between the body and the mind. All of this through movement.
NLM is usually practised in a group overlooked by a teacher that will pick the music and will guide with their voice the participants. The practice is usually 90 minutes long and takes place in private space on yoga mats.
The method believes in movement as medicine and it encourages participants to explore their inner world through their body. Although this is a method usually implemented for relaxation and procession of deep-rooted emotions, it is helpful in enhancing one’s creativity.
In the current climate with half of the world stuck in quarantine because of the COVID-19 outbreak, it might be difficult to try NLM in a group setting with a teacher that guides us through movement.
However, it is something that you can do in the comfort of your living room. Simply put some instrumental music on and close your eyes. Let your body guide you, trust that your body knows how to move on the music provided. Use this time to explore those emotions that are hard to express and release their energy.
Movement is a learning experience, a lot of the times it’s easy to forget that we learn through our body, if only we started paying more attention to what it has to tell us. NLM is a great way to start that dialogue between our mind, where we live most of the time and our body.
Those who practice performance art know very well how the body is a great tool for expressing and learning. Even when your body is not your usual way to express your creativity, it can be a fantastic way to unblock certain patterns that can be then explored using your artsy method of preference e.g. writing, painting, composing, etc.
I would also suggest using this method as a mindful practice to connect back with yourself, using it as a break to get your body moving and unblock all the things that you retain. Our bodies store a lot of emotions and sometimes releasing these through movement can be the fastest way to feel lighter.
Another great thing about NLM is how it allows me to see my body as art. This is quite a personal view, but when I decide to close my eyes and trust that I can move according to my flow I sometimes take a video of me moving along. The result is usually astonishing. Seeing myself in such an intimate connection with my body makes me love myself and cherish what I have got. It is a practice that I 100% recommend.
If you feel like you need to break free from your creative block, or you feel like there are a few emotions that are trapped within your body or you simply want to connect with yourself, NLM is a great practice to try.
Written By Cloe Grampa