Craig Constantine

Moving with Sarah Mohr →

Published January 27, 2022 · All posts on Jan 27 · Movers Mindset

Moving with Sarah Mohr

What roles do movement, play, and internal-external balance play in human connection and self-expression?

The balance between internal and external experiences shapes how individuals perceive and express themselves.

Let us have the capacity to lose the safety, and the illusion of the safety, that we are given in our century, to figure out that pain is our beautiful companion.
~ Sarah Mohr (16:32)

The conversation explores the intrinsic human connection to movement and play, emphasizing how these activities serve as fundamental forms of communication. The discussion highlights the cultural differences in how movement and play are expressed, with some societies engaging more openly and visibly, while others internalize their play through structured or intellectual means. The relationship between internal and external experiences of play is dissected, particularly through the lens of dance, where the external beauty perceived by audiences contrasts with the internal mental and physical challenges faced by the dancer.

Another key focus is the integration of pain and love as essential forces for learning and personal growth. Pain is presented as a necessary companion that helps individuals rediscover their authentic selves and reconnect with forgotten aspects of their identities. This rediscovery is tied to the idea of balance, both within oneself and in relation to external perceptions, underscoring the role of self-awareness and trust in navigating life’s complexities.

Takeaways

Rediscovering forgotten selves — A significant part of personal growth involves reconnecting with aspects of oneself that have been neglected or forgotten.

Cultural approaches to play — Different societies exhibit varying levels of visible or internalized engagement with play.

Pain as a learning tool — Pain is essential for building trust, love, and a deeper understanding of oneself and the world.

Dance as a metaphor — Dance exemplifies the duality of internal struggle and external expression, providing insights into broader human experiences.

Integration of experiences — Personal growth often requires integrating disparate experiences into a cohesive understanding of oneself.

The illusion of safety — Breaking free from the illusion of safety can lead to profound self-discovery and freedom.

Internal versus external truth — Balancing internal perceptions with external realities is central to authentic expression and connection.

Movement as communication — Movement is an intrinsic and universal form of human expression and interaction.

Resources

Sarah Isabel Mohr @saisabelmohr

(Written with help from Chat-GPT.)

Freedom with Brandon Sandén →

Published January 21, 2022 · All posts on Jan 21 · Movers Mindset

Freedom with Brandon Sandén

How does movement, particularly parkour, serve as a reflection of one’s mental and physical state while fostering personal growth and community connection?

Movement reveals the intricate connection between physical challenges and mental states.

One thing I really love about parkour, and what it’s been for me, is that it’s kind of a perfect mirror—I think, Dan Edwardes spoken about this a lot—but it’s a perfect mirror of who you are right now at this very moment.
~ Brandon Sandén (1:28)

The conversation explores how movement, particularly parkour, reflects one’s current mental and physical state. Movement is described as a mirror, revealing the moment’s truths, independent of past achievements. Parkour’s emphasis on adaptability and creativity helps individuals step beyond their mental barriers and embrace challenges.

The discussion also highlights the role of community in fostering a love for movement. Through initiatives like Sunday Jump Days, participants build inclusive spaces, transcending organizational boundaries. Teaching parkour is revealed to require a blend of structure and flexibility, reflecting the dynamic nature of the discipline. Lastly, the value of flow states, both in movement and teaching, underscores the deep connection between physical practice and mental clarity.

Takeaways

Parkour as a mirror — Movement reveals one’s mental and physical state in real time.

Adaptability in parkour — Success depends on responding effectively to one’s environment and circumstances.

Freedom and creativity in movement — Practices like dance and parkour offer an outlet for self-expression.

Community building through movement — Organized gatherings foster inclusivity and collaboration across diverse groups.

Teaching strategies in parkour — Effective teaching requires adaptability, engagement, and innovation.

Importance of flow states — Achieving deep focus in movement is both fulfilling and essential for personal growth.

Challenges in community leadership — Sustaining events requires coordination and shared responsibility.

Resources

Urban Jumpers @urbnjumpers — An app for parkour enthusiasts to discover spots and organize jams.

Quality Movement — A parkour organization in Stockholm focused on coaching and events.

Brandon Sandén @brandon.qmpk

(Written with help from Chat-GPT.)

Contact with Nika Jankovic →

Published January 14, 2022 · All posts on Jan 14 · Movers Mindset

Contact with Nika Jankovic

What is the relationship between physical movement practices like floor work, yoga, and breath, and how do these practices influence personal growth and teaching methods?

Discover how confronting the hardness of the floor can transform both physical practice and personal resilience.

You want to be friends with the floor. You wanna caress the floor, you wanna melt into the floor. There’s always you in relation to this thing.
~ Nika Jankovic (2:42)

The conversation discusses the interplay between movement practices such as floor work, yoga, and dance. Floor work, described as forming a “relationship” with the ground, is explored as a practice that transforms how one interacts with space and movement. The connection between breath and movement in yoga is also highlighted, emphasizing how breath awareness influences other practices like dance.

Teaching and learning are recurring themes, as challenges in balancing simplicity with complexity for beginners are examined. The discussion touches on the teacher-student dynamic, emphasizing the necessity of full-circle growth to effectively communicate foundational skills. Personal reflections on the evolution of movement practices during times of isolation, reveal the adaptability required in both practice and teaching.

Takeaways

Building a relationship with the floor — The practice of floor work invites practitioners to engage deeply with their physical surroundings.

Breath as a foundation — Yoga emphasizes starting with breath, which can then inform and transform physical movement practices.

Adaptability in teaching — Teaching movement requires a balance between simplifying for beginners and maintaining respect for the complexity of foundational skills.

The teacher-student connection — Effective teaching involves understanding the readiness of students and the teacher’s own readiness to guide.

Resilience through movement — The physical challenges of practicing on hard surfaces build resilience and deeper connections to the practice.

Evolution of practice — External circumstances, like the COVID-19 pandemic, reshape how and where movement practices are performed.

Personal growth in teaching — Revisiting foundational skills allows both teacher and student to grow and understand movement more fully.

Resources

Yoga — A discipline focusing on breath and movement, often used as a foundation for meditation and physical practice.

Floor work — A style of movement rooted in ground-based interaction, as discussed in contemporary dance and movement contexts.

Shavasana (Corpse Pose) — A yoga pose emphasizing stillness and melting into the floor.

Online group sessions — Movement and dance practice sessions held virtually to foster community and learning.

Tai Chi — Mentioned as a transformative movement practice offering new perspectives on body and breath.

Nika Jankovic @nika_disney_

(Written with help from Chat-GPT.)

Questions with Joe Boyle →

Published January 12, 2022 · All posts on Jan 12 · Movers Mindset

Questions with Joe Boyle

How do individuals decide what to share with others, and what strategies are effective for meaningful communication?

The conversation explores the interplay between offering help and withholding it to foster personal growth.

Anything that, sort of, gets you out of the rigidity of pattern is what lights you up.
~ Joe Boyle (17:50)

The conversation explores the complexity of communication, focusing on the tension between offering and withholding help. It examines whether sharing insights is always beneficial or if the onus lies on others to ask for guidance. This perspective ties into the idea that readiness and willingness to seek knowledge often dictate the effectiveness of learning.

The discussion transitions into topics of self-reflection and change, emphasizing how beliefs are often challenged in specific contexts rather than in abstract terms. It also touches on the importance of balance—between consuming information and creating opportunities for others to learn through subtle cues or “Easter eggs.” Personal practices, such as quieting the mind to enhance focus and creativity, are highlighted as valuable tools for personal growth.

Takeaways

Readiness to inquire — Personal growth often requires individuals to take the initiative to ask questions.

Sharing versus withholding — The decision to share knowledge or insights depends on the readiness and openness of the recipient.

Role of failure — Failure is a critical component of the learning process.

Balancing consumption and creation — Leaving subtle hints or “Easter eggs” can foster meaningful exchanges without overwhelming others.

Reframing the urge to help — Changing the motivation behind sharing from seeking approval to genuinely fostering others’ growth.

Rigidity and creativity — Breaking out of patterns can reignite energy and inspiration.

Self-assessment through beliefs — Challenging one’s beliefs can be a tool for intellectual and personal growth.

Mindfulness in decisions — A quiet mind enables better decisions and creativity.

Resources

David Belle — Reference to a story involving him and his father Raymond, emphasizing the importance of asking questions to gain insights.

Edo Portal — Mentioned as a source of inspiration or guidance in certain contexts.

(Written with help from Chat-GPT.)

Jim Bathurst: Coaching, Self-Awareness, and Getting Started →

Published January 4, 2022 · All posts on Jan 4 · Movers Mindset

Jim Bathurst: Coaching, self-awareness, and getting started

What strategies can be used to help individuals overcome personal and environmental barriers to achieve their physical and mental wellness goals?

When Jim Bathurst first began his fitness blog in college, he never imagined it would lead to a successful career as a personal trainer and coach. He shares his journey from athlete to coach, and how he approaches helping people. Jim discusses setting and achieving goals, recharging his energy, and music. He reflects on changes with Beast Skills and Nerd Fitness, and recent challenges he’s faced.

No one ever just comes up with a finished product… Just start wherever you’re at and then take that next step forward.
~ Jim Bathurst (46:25)

Jim Bathurst is an acrobat, weightlifter, personal trainer, head of Fitness at Nerd Fitness, and the creator of Beast Skills. He is a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist with the NSCA and has been coaching people for 15 years now. During that time, he received the award of Best Personal Trainer in Washington DC, as well as the award for Best CrossFit Gym while he was Director of CrossFit Foggy Bottom. Jim brings his experience in gymnastics and calisthenics to his work outs and tutorials, breaking down difficult bodyweight exercises into manageable progressions.

The conversation centers on how to foster physical and mental well-being through incremental progress and prioritization. It emphasizes the importance of identifying personal priorities to make space for health-related activities. The discussion also explores how environmental factors, such as social support and physical surroundings, can influence one’s ability to sustain a healthy lifestyle. Coaches play a pivotal role in helping clients navigate these challenges by tailoring strategies to their unique circumstances.

Another major theme is the need to celebrate small victories and recognize progress beyond conventional milestones. This mindset helps sustain motivation and builds self-awareness over time. The dialogue also touches on broader personal growth themes, like overcoming self-consciousness, embracing new challenges, and the parallels between physical training and other aspects of life, such as creativity and content creation.

Takeaways

Celebrating incremental progress — Small achievements along the way are vital for sustaining long-term motivation.

Coaching as a guide — A coach’s role involves helping clients navigate their unique challenges and environments.

Adjusting priorities — Making time for health and wellness often requires reevaluating personal and professional priorities.

Social and environmental support — The success of health goals often depends on having a supportive social environment and optimizing one’s physical surroundings.

Awareness development — Building awareness in different stages (before, during, and after actions) is key to recognizing habits and fostering positive change.

Overcoming fear of judgment — Starting new projects or fitness routines often means letting go of the fear of others’ perceptions.

Adapting to challenges — Creativity and adaptability are essential to maintain consistency in wellness practices amidst life’s uncertainties.

Resources

Nerd Fitness — Where Jim is the head of fitness.

Beast Skills — Jim’s blog and resource site focusing on breaking down complex bodyweight exercises into manageable progressions.

Anecdotes — Pink Floyd’s the Wall and the Gunslinger series.

Music — Indie Rock, the Smiths, Snail Mail, Wolf Alice, Phoebe Bridgers and the Sneaker Pimps new album.

Nerd Fitness Camps — Returning in 2022.

University of Maryland Gymnastics Club — A place mentioned in the conversation as part of Jim’s early fitness journey.

Promptness and lateness — Mike Birbiglia skit

Planning in relation to training — Happy Body program by Jerzy Gregorek

(Written with help from Chat-GPT.)

Gateway to possibility →

Published December 10, 2021 · All posts on Dec 10 · Movers Mindset

Why is play so powerful? Johnson explains that “humans — and other organisms — evolved neural mechanisms that promote learning when they have experiences that confound their expectations. When the world surprises us with something, our brains are wired to pay attention.”
And the whole point of play is to be surprised. The unknown factor is part of what entertains us. Play is a gateway to possibility.
~ Shane Parrish from, The Value of Play As a Driver of Innovation

slip:4ufova2.

Have you seen the movie, Inception? There are a pile of mind-bending perspective shifts in there… something like a dolly-zoom, a long music descent, a rotating set that obliterates our sense of reality as the actors fall to the ceiling, that look on their face, M C Escher learns to use modern CGI for a city street scene . . . you get the idea.

surprise
unknown factor
gateway to possibility…

My understanding of what play is, and why we’re drawn to it, has fundamentally shifted.

Motivation with Oliver Thorpe →

Published December 6, 2021 · All posts on Dec 6 · Movers Mindset

Motivation with Oliver Thorpe

What motivates and shapes the personal experiences and practices of someone who navigates both the parkour and climbing communities?

Exploring mindfulness in movement reveals deeper insights into personal and communal growth.

It’s interesting how it somehow reveals our own thought process. So the exact sequence of my feet in some stride up to something— or the exact way that I place my hands, reveals how I think about movement.
~ Oliver Thorpe (15:07)

The conversation touches on the intersection of culture, movement, and personal growth. Reflections on moving between Denmark and Australia explore themes of adaptation and community, with emphasis on how cultural differences shape human connections. Denmark, with its initially reserved people, becomes a home through its parkour community, providing both camaraderie and a sense of belonging.

The discussion also delves into the relationship between mindfulness, training, and motivation. Experiences in parkour and climbing illustrate how challenges provide motivation and how iterative attempts help in overcoming fear. There is also a reflection on how personal habits, like coffee preparation, tie into broader practices of mindfulness and intentionality.

Takeaways

The role of community in creating a sense of belonging — The parkour community in Denmark plays a key role in fostering personal connections.

The contrast between Danish and Australian cultures — These cultural differences highlight variations in social behavior and interpersonal connections.

The interplay of mindfulness and movement — Training in parkour and climbing reveals how mindfulness shapes approach and execution.

The motivational power of challenges — Facing and overcoming physical and psychological barriers provides a sense of growth.

The iterative nature of overcoming fear — Experiences in climbing show how repeated exposure transforms fear into confidence.

Resources

Gerlev International Gathering — A notable parkour and movement event in Denmark.

Gravity Sucks Jam — A parkour jam mentioned in the context of challenging physical endurance.

Gall Folk High School — A Danish institution with programs, including a focus on parkour.

Oliver Thorpe @oliver_thorpe

(Written with help from Chat-GPT.)

Lindsey Kleinberg: Experiencing Nature, Creating Connection, and Healing →

Published November 15, 2021 · All posts on Nov 15 · Movers Mindset

Lindsey Kleinberg: Experiencing nature, creating connection, and healing

How can individuals integrate nature, education, art, and personal healing into creating positive change for themselves and their communities?

Lindsey Kleinberg advocates for nature play in the most important way; practicing what she preaches. She shares her experiences raising her family through alternative and nature education, and why it’s important to her. Lindsey describes the benefits home gardening, self-care, and how she approaches creating change. She discusses books, blogging, art, and what she hopes to achieve in her community.

When you’re really working on a personal journey, if you are making those steps for positive impact and change, people around you, whether or not they will admit, they start to feel those things.
~ Lindsey Kleinberg (44:22)

Lindsey Kleinberg is an educator, artist, avid gardener, and nature play advocate. She is the founder of the Finding Place LV, a Reggio-inspired micro school whose mission is to reconnect kids with nature. In addition to her Masters degree, Lindsey is certified in many areas, including Nature-based outdoor education and School Garden Coordinator.

The conversation explores how integrating nature, art, and alternative education can foster healing and inspire positive change. Discussing the importance of organic gardening, Lindsey emphasizes the transformative effects of hands-on, sustainable practices in raising children. These practices encourage empathy, environmental stewardship, and a deep connection to the natural world.

Topics also touch on the role of art in healing, with examples of how creative activities—ranging from murals to gardening—can reconnect individuals to themselves and their communities. Lindsey advocates for simple actions, such as planting seeds or creating small garden spaces, to initiate broader personal and societal shifts. A recurring theme is the necessity of self-care to sustain these efforts, ensuring individuals remain grounded and effective in their pursuits.

Takeaways

Planting seeds of change — Small, intentional actions like gardening can have a profound impact on individuals and communities.

Self-care as a foundation — Addressing personal well-being is critical to sustaining efforts for broader change.

Nature as a teacher — Hands-on experiences in nature foster empathy, creativity, and resilience in children and adults.

Art and creativity — Engaging in art is a powerful tool for personal and communal healing.

The ripple effect of change — Personal growth and intentional practices can influence and inspire those around you.

Raising environmentally conscious children — Early exposure to sustainable practices helps develop lifelong habits of stewardship and care.

Balancing digital presence — While online tools can spread awareness, maintaining human connections remains essential.

Holistic education models — Integrating principles from Waldorf and Reggio Emilia philosophies creates dynamic, experiential learning environments.

Resources

Lindsey is the founder of The Finding Place Lehigh Valley

Lindsey’s recent blog post, searching for ‘home’.

Rodale Institute — A leader in regenerative organic agriculture and education.

Julian Is a Mermaid — A children’s book advocating for self-expression and creativity.

Kutztown University’s Program in Regenerative Organic Agriculture — Collaboration with the Rodale Institute to provide a unique degree program.

Waldorf: Environment as teacher, play, storytelling, natural learning

Reggio-Emilio, community learning, art, intergenerational

Let’s Play Books and Now and Then books

Book most often given away: Julián is a Mermaid, Jessica Love

Largest book: Hobbit/Lord of the Rings combo book, Welcome to the Museum series

Book you most want, but can’t get: Iwigara

Interactive art, Juxtahub

(Written with help from Chat-GPT.)

Growth with Brandon Douglass →

Published November 12, 2021 · All posts on Nov 12 · Movers Mindset

https://moversmindset.com/growth-with-brandon-douglass/

What can be learned from reflecting on personal growth and authenticity through the lenses of podcasting and movement?

Exploring the intersection of self-expression and discipline through creative mediums.

Experimentation was key for me. And I think it’s just like, where are you finding the growth?
~ Brandon Douglass (13:04)

This conversation explores the themes of personal growth, authenticity, and creative expression, using podcasting and movement as central mediums. Topics include navigating the gap between public persona and authentic self, the therapeutic and self-reflective aspects of podcasting, and the challenges of overcoming fears both in movement and public speaking. Insights are shared on how the process of self-expression can foster understanding and self-awareness.

The discussion also covers practical aspects of podcasting, such as experimenting with formats, balancing consistency with creativity, and reflecting on past work to identify growth. A significant focus is placed on the importance of intentionality in creative practices and the value of embracing novel approaches to stand out in saturated fields. Movement is presented as both a physical and metaphorical language that enables exploration of different dimensions of self-expression.

Takeaways

The role of fear challenges in fostering personal growth — How embracing fear in movement and creative expression leads to growth.

The gap between public persona and authentic self — Reflections on how podcasting highlights this dynamic.

The therapeutic aspects of podcasting — Using podcasting as a tool for self-reflection and emotional processing.

Experimentation as a path to growth — The value of trying novel approaches to discover new insights.

The interplay of consistency and creativity — Challenging traditional content models to foster innovation.

Movement as a multidimensional language — Exploring different styles and expressions through physical practice.

The value of intentionality — Emphasizing meaningful and deliberate approaches in creative work.

Resources

Height Drop Podcast — A podcast focused on movement, culture, and personal growth.

MMA Hour with Ariel Helwani’s — A podcast format discussed as an inspiration for creative interview styles.

(Written with help from Chat-GPT.)

Questions with Sebastián Ruiz Jiménez →

Published October 28, 2021 · All posts on Oct 28 · Movers Mindset

Questions with Sebastián Ruiz Jiménez

How does exploring one’s center and asking questions influence personal growth and understanding?

Asking the right questions transforms challenges into opportunities for growth.

I think that a way to find creativity and inspiration is, try to read something, try to see something that is not what you usually see, that is not what you usually do. Make yourself feel uncomfortable, and make yourself feel comfortable in the uncomfortable.
~ Sebastián Ruiz Jiménez (2:30)

The discussion explores the concept of finding one’s center and how this aligns with personal growth. Sebastián emphasizes the importance of stepping outside comfort zones to spark creativity and curiosity. He shares insights on seeking inspiration through diverse experiences, such as books, podcasts, and challenging unfamiliar activities.

The conversation also touches on the importance of asking meaningful questions, both of oneself and others, to uncover purpose and direction. Philosophical principles, movement practices, and mindfulness techniques are interwoven to illustrate how individuals can align their actions with deeper values. Practical lessons, like maintaining good technique in physical training, underscore the need for balance and awareness.

Takeaways

Finding inspiration — Engage with unfamiliar or challenging ideas to spark creativity.

The importance of questions — Use questions to challenge assumptions and uncover deeper understanding.

Solid foundations — Build strong roots and bases to support sustainable growth.

Teaching through challenges — Encourage self-discovery by posing questions and fostering problem-solving.

Movement as a center — Align physical and mental practices with a central guiding principle.

Mindfulness in action — Maintain awareness by centering thoughts and actions in everyday life.

Avoiding injury — Prioritize proper technique and self-awareness to prevent harm.

Philosophical connections — Relate ideas from philosophy to practical life applications.

Resources

Simon Sinek — Author of “Start With Why” and creator of the Golden Circle framework, emphasizing the importance of purpose in personal and professional contexts.

Start With Why — A book by Simon Sinek that discusses the power of understanding “why” to drive inspiration and success.

Peace Revolution — A meditation project by a Buddhist foundation in Thailand, promoting inner peace as a foundation for sustainable world peace.

Rise of the Guardians — An animated film by DreamWorks that explores themes of purpose and identity through characters like Santa Claus and Jack Frost.

CrossFit — A functional fitness training program combining strength and conditioning, emphasizing holistic body movement.

Sebastián Ruiz Jiménez on LinkedIn

(Written with help from Chat-GPT.)