Imagine your body as a river. As long as the water flows, it remains clear, fresh, and full of life. But if it stagnates, it darkens and becomes heavy, and the entire ecosystem suffers. Movement is this vital current that cleanses, nourishes, and harmonizes. It's not just about muscles or physique: it's always about an inner dance, a dialogue between every cell, every hormone, every breath.
In our modern lives, frozen behind screens and rushed by schedules, this inner flow often slows down. Yet, moving, even gently, awakens the body, clears the mind, and aligns our internal cycles with the rhythm of the world. So, what if we restored this original fluidity to our bodies?
MOVEMENT AND PHYSIOLOGY: WHAT HAPPENS IN YOUR BODY
Moving isn't just a mechanical action; it's a signal sent to every system in your body. Regular physical activity stimulates blood circulation, increases cellular oxygenation, and improves venous return. This optimized blood flow allows for better nourishment of our organs, facilitates the elimination of toxins, and strengthens our immune system.
On a hormonal level, exercise directly influences key players such as insulin (better blood sugar regulation), cortisol (reduction of chronic stress), and even endorphins (feel-good hormones). Studies by Inserm and the WHO show that regular physical activity reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease by 30%, improves bone density, and supports brain health.
And it is not necessary to run a marathon: walking 30 minutes a day, practicing Pilates or simply integrating more movements into your day (taking the stairs instead of the elevator, dancing in your living room) already has a measurable impact on our vitality.
THE BRAIN, THE FIRST BIG WINNER
The brain consumes 20% of our oxygen. Movement increases its blood flow, improving memory, concentration, and creativity. Neuroscience shows that a 20-minute walk stimulates neurogenesis in the hippocampus, a key area for memory and emotional regulation. The endorphins, dopamine, and serotonin released during exercise act as a natural antidepressant. Studies by Inserm confirm that regular physical activity reduces depressive symptoms by 30% and improves the quality of deep sleep.
MOVEMENT AND WOMEN'S HEALTH: AN INTIMATE CONNECTION
In women, movement plays a fundamental role in hormonal balance. Physical activity stimulates lymphatic circulation, essential for eliminating excess estrogen via the liver. It reduces chronic inflammation, often the cause of intense premenstrual syndrome, menstrual pain, or hormonal imbalances.
Research published in the Journal of Women's Health demonstrates that regular, moderate exercise can reduce menstrual pain by 20 to 40% and improve cycle regularity. Gentle practices, such as light yoga, Pilates, or stretching, also help regulate the nervous system, thus reducing excessive cortisol production, which can disrupt ovulation and fertility.
Movement also acts as an emotional regulator. By moving, we release accumulated tension, we facilitate the processing of emotions, both literally and figuratively, and we strengthen our connection to our bodies.
THE VIEWPOINT OF TRADITIONAL MEDICINE
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), prolonged immobility is considered a blockage of Qi, the vital energy. When energy does not flow, imbalances arise: blood stagnation (menstrual pain, digestive discomfort), internal heat (inflammation), or energy deficiency (chronic fatigue). Gentle, regular, and mindful movement, such as Qi Gong or Tai Chi, helps to circulate Qi, harmonize the organs, and support the health of the kidneys and liver, key elements of female hormonal balance.
As we know, Ayurveda, the ancient Indian medicine, also considers that the body is made to move every day, even slightly. Movement stimulates Agni (digestive fire), eliminates Ama (toxins), and preserves lightness of body and mind.
ZEHNIA GIVES YOU SOME ADVICE
At Zehnia, we like to remind people that moving isn't about ticking a box on a to-do list. It's about choosing each day to set your inner river flowing again. No need for feats of strength: dance for five minutes in the morning, take a walk after a meal, stretch before bed. Do it for yourself, for your inner fire, so that your body remains fluid, strong, and radiant.
Returning to the living dance… Movement is not a punishment, but an act of self-love. The more you move, the more the river regains its course, the clearer the water becomes, the more smoothly life flows.