Welcome to this week's feature. Womxn In Motion introduces Alissa Beight. We will explore movement with her and the power of stretching.
Before we begin tell us a little bit about yourself....
"Hi my name is Alissa! I love stretching, farming, and being outside. I try to not take myself too seriously, and I always strive to be a good listener. I have a lot to learn in life, and I am trying to take it a day at a time :-)"
1. When did you start stretching & movement? Were you at first ever intimidated by trying something new? How did you get over that feeling?
"I started stretching and moving my body in my mid-twenties. At the time, I felt like I was late to the practice because my muscles were so tight and unrelenting. In retrospect, I see that the best time to start is any time! I was intimidated from the jump, but gradually chipped away at my fears by moving slow, at my own pace. Life, and all of its processes, is definitely not a race."
2. Do you follow a routine or more so create your own poses? What does it feel after you play around with different poses and create your own?
"I usually just stretch whatever feels tight, and often turn to the internet for resources if I am stuck on what to do. There are amazing people out there with tons of experience offering safe and accessible guidance! I always feel better after I stretch - physically and mentally. It is a luxury to have the time and space to stretch my body, and I try not to take that for granted."
3. How would you personally relate this form of physical movement/expression to mental health?
"I heard somewhere that our bodies store emotions. I think stretching and movement has the power to release, or at least bring attention to, those stored emotions. Being able to identify a feeling is helpful in working through it."
4. What does it mean to you to empower women?
"Empowering womxn is advocating for womxn in an equitable way - recognizing intersectionality and working to dismantle systems that oppress certain groups more than others. It's a huge undertaking. I try to listen as much as I can, and support those womxn who are at the forefront fighting for policy change."
5. If you were to give a title to a series of stretches that are your favourite to do what title would you give it?!
"I would probably title my favorite stretched "relaxation" or something along those lines - I love to feel relaxed."
6. What are some of the inspirations behind your curiosity to create. Whether through stretching, art, or other passion projects?
"Life is constantly surprising me, and I think that's a big part of inspiration."
7. What other forms of movement do you enjoy or haven't tried and want to explore more?
"I love riding a bicycle - it makes me feel like a kid again!"
Head over to @wimwomxndaily to see more of Alissa's moves as well as her personal page @alissabei.