Have you heard of Physiological Synchrony?
Last week I started sharing on the benefits of walking for your relationships. This week I want to build on that. I recently saw a post from Dr. Nicole LePera, who is known as “The Holistic Psychologist.” She’s a great follow if you’re looking for solid, research-based mental health information and practical tips. In this post, she introduced a term that I’d never heard before—“Physiological Synchrony.” She goes on to explain how the act of walking with someone, at the same pace, syncs up your heartbeat and breathing, which is known as Physiological Synchrony. This is powerful stuff. I’m reminded of attachment theory and how holding a baby next to your heart can soothe them and make them feel safe, reminding them of what it was like to be held in the womb. I think walking together is an extension of this concept.
We’ve spent time in previous newsletters identifying ways in which walking together can help us emotionally connect to one another. And now we’re learning that the simple act of walking together can help physically align your body with your walking partner as well. And as we know… the physical/emotional/mental/spiritual planes are all integrated and in constant communication with one another. I hope you can carve out some time in the coming week to go for a walk. Bonus points if you can find a walking buddy to join you!
Know someone who has been wanting to try therapy but is feeling anxious to start the process? Walk + Talk sessions make therapy more approachable. Pass along this newsletter to them and/or Kari’s e-mail address: kari@wisewomxnwellness.com