What is the imbalance and how to keep it in check?

Firstly, we need to evaluate and understand just how much time we actually spend sitting and looking at screens. Have you heard sitting is the new smoking which is an adult analogy but children sit too often and too long, what’s the analogy there?  Are they seizing up? Neck problems? Zombie Apocalypse?

Even if we can justify the time spent on our computers ie., learning, working, networking, researching, entertainment and the list goes on. How much time are you or someone you care for spending on your screens? We need to do a regular check-in; on our physical health, our thoughts/feelings and our actions/habits.

So start with a check in for the quantity of time spent on screens.  Apple’s built in feature screen time is one way to put a number on it. I’m yet to do my own ‘check’ but as an adult who knows the risks of sitting and staring on my body and brain, I am fairly tuned in and also listen to what my body is telling me eg. ‘get up and move’ to stimulate blood flow.

Recent societal impacts have affected our lifestyles which almost forced us into increased screen time habits. The COVID-19 pandemic increased significantly the screen time of children and adults; when people pass more time indoors on their screens there are negative health consequences. Poor posture, decreased attention to tasks/daily activities and although we speak of the internet opening up our social networks/connections – this is speculative and subjective to individuals.

This ‘Screen time phenomenon’ is not new and averages and more detailed data is easily accessible, if we are willing to look at it. Oh, that’s right another 5-10 minutes online, hmm! Let’s face it, we need to prioritise and take action.

 

This digital era is an exciting and daunting time, there really is no turning back – a balance can be found when we know how.

Learning to balance our mind, open our heart and activate our body is not only a smart move going forward, it is vital for our ability to stay connected to self and our environment.

Brain Gym® is a learning system that utilises only hands, heart, mind and movement, without undue dependence on materials or technology.

There are ‘26’ Brain Gym movements known as ‘The 26’ which in their diversity and specificity are uniquely designed to fulfill specific physical requirements of learning which support a fully integrated brain/body state of being.

Remember the effects that the digital era is having on all of us. Consider the detrimental effects of slumping; nine of the ‘The 26’ support the skills necessary for standing balance and proper body alignment. Here is 4 of them:

Then there are six of these specifically designed to help learners relax, release tension and access a full range of motion for limbs cramped by hours of sitting.

The remainder is eleven midline movements which support motor dexterity, visual coordination and active listening.

Doing Brain Gym®, can be as simple as ‘do the activity you are drawn to’, When young people can freely move and express themselves, muscles are strengthened / lengthened and a frown can become a smile. Also, imagine being energised, focused with enhanced senses.

‘Movement is the door to learning’, there are ‘26’ movements, start with one today.

‘Sip some water’, Why? Our body systems are electrical and as water is a universal solvent it increases electrical potential across membranes; sipping water leads to good cognitive function and emotional calm.

 

Where does the dynamic component come into play?

If a person, place, or thing is energetic and active, then it’s dynamic. Using techniques of Brain Gym® to integrate your mind, body and heart is a dynamic process.

Educators everywhere are recognising that academics and physical activity are complementary. Evidence of this is seen through standing desks, gym balls, singing and movement breaks. Movement is the door to learning.

 Parents, carers and educators who learn ‘The 26’ Brain Gym movements can also use it for themselves, with children, elderly, people with diverse learning needs, they are easy and non-intrusive movements designed to be used in any environment, in private, a small group or a classroom.

 The innate benefits are to notice ourselves and where our own learning flow can be enhanced, no matter your age or stage.

When things are dynamic, changes and energy are in the air.

Many of our new century’s youngsters are so over-stimulated by external input that the digital era provides they are missing the sensory input of their own bodies’ wisdom. Brain gym aims to draw out curiosity and entice/enhance interaction.

Appy Connections supports and teaches people to access and use technologies which improve their daily living skills. Movement and activities from the Brain Gym educational program, known as ‘The 26’ are included into the learning programs, this is intentional and guiding individuals to find a balance in this dynamic digital era.

A two day workshop known as Brain Gym® 104 Course can teach you what you need to get started with Brain Gym now. Enquiries welcome.