Dear Reader,

Last week, I asked you: "What is your movement genius?"

And your answers came rolling in:

• Backpacking in the Redwoods.
• Shoveling snow!
• Just completed a 3-week foster of these now 1-month-old pups (rescue)!
• Currently, at age 56, I am a passionate Pole Dance educator, artist, and mover!!!!
• I’m currently teaching English in Bilbao, Spain, and have been enjoying lots of long runs along the coast alone and with friends.
• I’m a dance/movement therapist, so my movement genius is being that.

Our movement genius is as unique as we are. And, when we channel this energy toward our values—whether that’s nature connection, pet rescue, therapy, or teaching—we are engaging in Wise Effort.

So, my next big question is: "What Gets in the Way?"

What stops us from moving in the ways our bodies and souls crave?

That’s exactly what I explored on this week's LIVE real-play episode with Maya, a dancer and mother who has felt disconnected from her movement genius.

Before you listen, I want you to try an exercise (yes, and I want you to send me a picture of it!):

A Reflection Exercise to Explore Your Movement Genius

1. Grab a blank sheet of paper and draw a horizontal line across the middle.
2. At the top of the page, draw what it feels like in your body when you are in your movement genius—when you are in flow, fully embodied, and moving in a way that feels natural and joyful.
3. On the bottom, draw yourself when you feel disconnected from movement—when it feels forced, out of alignment, or uninspired.
4. Then, ask yourself: "What is blocking me from moving from the bottom of the page to the top?"

🎧 Now listen to this week’s episode to hear what came up for Maya when she did this exercise with me live in front of an audience at the Communal Table. You may be surprised—it’s deeper and more personal than you think.

In my new book with Katy Bowman, I Know I Should Exercise But…, we explore psychological and contextual barriers that keep us from moving the way we long to.

📸 Don’t forget to send me your movement genius drawings!

I will personally respond to every single one with some feedback.

Consider me your Wise Effort coach.

Diana

Dr. Diana Hill Your Wise Effort Guide

P.S. Remember, on Monday, I will share some BIG NEWS about how to personalize what you learn in the book and on the podcast to your life.

Hint: It involves me moving right alongside you. I hope you'll join me.

Let’s meet in person! 🌟 Katy Bowman and I are meeting up in person to offer a live workshop and book signing at Yoga Soup! And you are invited! Space is limited, so sign up NOW. Yes, I want to go to this!

If you’re a therapist, you will love this… 🌟 Join Esther on this two-day convening, where therapists and mental health professionals will explore our roles as essential guides in a rapidly shifting world. Yes, sign me up!

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