Why Movement is Medicine: How Boxing Helps Release Stress & Trauma
In the journey of healing from stress and trauma, traditional talk therapies have long been the cornerstone. However, an emerging body of research highlights the profound impact of incorporating physical movement into therapeutic practices. Among these, boxing stands out as a powerful modality that not only engages the body but also facilitates deep emotional release and healing.
The Body Keeps the Score
Renowned psychiatrist Dr. Bessel van der Kolk, in his seminal work "The Body Keeps the Score," emphasizes that trauma is not just an event of the past but a current imprint on both mind and body. Traumatic experiences can lead to a state where the body's alarm systems remain persistently activated, causing individuals to feel on edge, anxious, or disconnected. Traditional therapies address the cognitive aspects, but the somatic (bodily) manifestations often require a more embodied approach.
Boxing: A Therapeutic Outlet
Imagine the act of hitting a heavy bag. With each punch, there's a tangible release—a transfer of pent-up energy, frustration, and emotion into physical movement. This cathartic process is more than just a workout; it's a form of somatic therapy that allows individuals to process and release stored tensions.
A scoping review published in the Journal of Psychiatric Research found that non-contact boxing exercises provided significant reductions in symptoms of anxiety, depression, PTSD, and negative symptoms of schizophrenia. Participants reported improved mood, self-esteem, confidence, and concentration. The structured nature of boxing, combined with its physical intensity, offers a dual benefit: grounding individuals in the present moment and providing a controlled outlet for emotional expression.
The Science Behind Movement and Healing
From a neurological perspective, engaging in rhythmic, repetitive movements—such as those in boxing—can help regulate the autonomic nervous system. This regulation fosters a sense of safety and control, counteracting the hyperarousal often associated with trauma responses.
Somatic therapies, like Somatic Experiencing®, focus on the body's sensations to help individuals process and heal from trauma. By tuning into physical feelings and releasing tension through movement, individuals can renegotiate traumatic experiences, leading to reduced symptoms and improved overall well-being.
Real-Life Transformations
There are so many success stories of personal transformation when movement and boxing are a part of the healing process. Consider Sarah, a survivor of childhood trauma, who struggled with traditional talk therapy. She found herself disconnected from her emotions and body. Upon joining a trauma-informed boxing program, Sarah began to reconnect with herself. The physicality of boxing allowed her to express emotions she couldn't verbalize. Over time, she reported feeling more grounded, confident, and in control of her life.
Similarly, programs like "Left Write Hook" in Melbourne combine boxing with storytelling, providing survivors of abuse a platform to process their trauma physically and emotionally. Participants have shown reductions in PTSD symptoms, depression, and stress, highlighting the transformative power of combining movement with therapeutic practices.
Building a Supportive Community
Beyond individual benefits, boxing programs often foster a sense of community. Shared experiences in a supportive environment can alleviate feelings of isolation common among trauma survivors. This communal aspect reinforces the understanding that healing doesn't have to be a solitary journey.
While boxing might seem unconventional in the realm of therapy, its benefits for stress and trauma release are increasingly recognized. By engaging both the mind and body, boxing offers a holistic approach to healing—empowering individuals to reclaim their strength, process deep-seated emotions, and move forward with resilience.
If you're considering incorporating boxing into your healing journey, check out our adult classes and youth programs that are designed with the principles that guide traditional and somatic therapy. Remember, the path to healing is personal, and finding the right modalities that resonate with you is key.
Keep moving, keep healing, and keep growing!
Alyse