Soul Strength MOVE!
“Exercise helps us find happiness, hope, connection and courage”
-Kelly McGonigal, PhD author of, The Joy of Movement
Seeking individuals who are looking for additional tools to improve emotional and physical wellbeing! SS Move is a stress relieving fitness class, where the focus is on mental wellness (in addition to physical health). Through the integration of movement, mindfulness and mental health boosting techniques, classes are designed to help individuals manage stress and improve mental health, all while getting a great workout. Classes are led by Kate Sherman-Licensed Therapist, Health Educator and Certified Personal Trainer/Group Ex. Instructor.
Each class features a whole-body workout, much like one you might take in a gym or studio setting. The difference is, Soul Strength Move focuses on physical and mental wellness. Classes are 60 minutes total, split up evenly between active movement and passive mindfulness.
Every workout/movement is completely adaptable for any and all fitness levels, including beginners. Additionally, all classes are taught using a trauma-informed approach. SS Move is not intended to be psychotherapy. The intention is to provide an alternative and accessible therapeutic tool for those looking to be well mentally, physically and socially.
Currently offering flexible payment options so that everyone can join, regardless of ability to pay.
SS Move classes are on hold at this time. Check back Fall 2023!
FAQS:
Why integrate movement and mental wellness?
There is an expanding base of peer reviewed, scientific literature showing the positive effects exercise has on mental health including (but not limited to) challenges associated with Anxiety, Depression, Stress, ADHD, and Addiction.
SS Move is designed to take these positive effects one step further by introducing therapeutic techniques while engaging in exercise.
Our bodies and brains function as one, synergistic system that is part of a larger social system… Soul Strength VT integrates and attends to the entire “system” to promote mental wellness and health.
How does movement work to improve mental wellness (psychological health)?
There are SO many mechanisms at play, but here are just a few-
Because our brains and bodies are directly connected and function as one, the physical benefits (hormone regulation, reduction of inflammation, improved heart rate, etc.) are also important to our psychological health.
The sense of mastery associated with movement often leads to improvements in self-esteem, confidence, self-efficacy and overall strengthens one’s sense of self. (Learn how strong and resilient you really are!)
Community support and energy from fellow group members often lead to greater sense of wellbeing.
Moreover, Soul Strength Move is specifically designed with the following in mind-
Movement provides the perfect outlet for mindfulness, which is a primary brain/body practice at Soul Strength VT
Movement (and the music!) give us an expressive outlet for noticing, understanding, and releasing difficult thoughts and feelings.
Breathwork, which is an integral part of class, is key to eliciting the “relaxation response”, supporting a more regulated nervous system.
Interested in learning more about these connections? This guide explains more of the “why” when it comes to benefits of exercise on mental and physical wellbeing.
Do I need to talk?
No! Just like in any other group exercise class, you don’t have to talk! (Unless you want to- movement groups are a terrific way to form connections!)
Are these classes considered to be psychotherapy?
No! While classes are designed to be therapeutic (healing), they are not psychotherapy or even somatic psychotherapy. Classes truly are movement/exercise based, with therapeutic techniques integrated throughout.
Who are these classes for?
Anyone and everyone whose goals include feeling well mentally and physically.
Anyone looking for a whole-person approach to meeting their wellness goals.