Ep 71: Moving Beyond Exercise: The Mind-Body Connection with MaryAnn Medenas

We can work out alllllll we want, and yet have poor physical wellbeing. What gives? 🫣🤔

This week guest expert MaryAnngeline Medenas, movement instructor specializing in yoga and dance, joins Mike and Helena to explore the intricate relationship between physical activity and  physical wellbeing + mental health/wellness. 

Our conversation delves into the distinction between mindless exercise routines and truly embodied movement practices. MaryAnn guides us through practical approaches to developing greater body awareness – revealing how tuning into physical sensations can transform not only how we move but how we think, feel, and perform in every aspect of life.

In this Episode:

🎧 The difference between exercise and physical wellbeing 

🎧 The opposite of chronic stress is NOT no stress; the need for good stress

🎧 Intentional movement as a gateway to physical vitality and psychological well-being

🎧 Sitting with discomfort 

🎧 Lessons in non-attachment and acceptance 

🎧 Integrating movement, physical activity and exercise into your daily routine

🎧 Why exercise, alone, doesn't guarantee wellness or improved wellbeing 

🎧 The importance of creating mindful, sustainable movement practices tailored to your individual needs

🎧 Developing the connection between body and mind during and outside of exercise 

MaryAnngeline Medenas is a movement instructor specializing in yoga and dance. Driven by a deep passion for movement and its profound impact on the body, mind, and spirit, she founded Kineesi, a virtual yoga studio dedicated to creative sequencing and intuitive movement.

Kineesi—derived from the Greek word for "movement"—offers hundreds of classes that showcase her innovative teaching style and artistic approach. Committed to the healing and transformative power of movement, MaryAnngeline helps students restore balance and develop a deeper connection to their practice. She is passionate about helping yoga students and teachers move beyond burnout, fear, and rigidity to find freedom in their practice, with the ultimate goal of continuing to evolve.

With extensive experience leading yoga teacher trainings, workshops, and retreats, she guides students in expanding their movement repertoire and finding creative expression in their practice. Her diverse background in multiple movement modalities brings a unique and dynamic quality to her teachings.

MaryAnngeline holds an E-RYT 500 and YACEP certification, a Master of Arts in Dance from St. Mary’s College of California, and a Bachelor’s degree in Communication and Dance from California State University, Fullerton. Her expertise in fluid, creative movement and seamless transitions empowers students to cultivate a deeper understanding of their bodies on a cellular level.

Instagram: kineesi.maryanngeline

TikTok: kineesibymaryanngeline

YouTube: kineesibymaryanngeline

Website:

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