Episodes

  • The Dance of Connection: Sabrine Ewies on Movement, Activism, and Belonging

    The Dance of Connection: Sabrine Ewies on Movement, Activism, and Belonging
    Jan 23 2025
    In this episode of Movement is My Constant, I sit down with Sabrine Ewies, a dance artist and cultural connector, to explore the transformative power of dance as a universal language. We dive into the importance of playfulness in movement and discuss how dance can be a form of activism that brings communities together.Sabrine reflects on how art and dance have been powerful tools in her own journey of fostering community engagement and personal growth. She shares her thoughts on creating meaningful experiences in retreats, overcoming self-judgment, and nurturing a sense of belonging through movement. Sabrine also talks about her vision for The House of Enjoyment, a space dedicated to connection and creativity, and why being seen and authentic is so important in our individual paths to self-discovery.Episode Highlights:Dance as a universal language that bridges communities She believes that through movement, people can reconnect with their bodies, express their true selves, and rediscover the joy of being present. Her mission goes far beyond choreography and teaching steps. Cultural Heritage Shaping Artistic Expression and Personal GrowthSabrine describes dance as a primal form of communication, deeply rooted in cultural heritage. She shares how her experiences in Ghana, particularly in Accra, have shaped her understanding of dance as both an art form and a tool for activism Movement as activism, creating change and building community. Sabrine reflects on how dance can challenge personal and societal constraints, sharing her transformative experiences with Ghanaian dance. She explains how this practice dismantled limiting beliefs about the body and movement, offering a deeper connection to emotions, identity, and self-expression. The deeper meaning of dance beyond choreography and performance.Sabrine reflects on how this understanding reinforces the idea that dance is far more than choreography; it’s a rich, cultural language where every gesture conveys intention and connection. The importance of being present in the moment to enhance the dance experience.Sabrine highlights how being fully present in the moment brings freedom and joy to dance. She reflects on the spirit of Ghanaian dances like Azonto, where the focus shifts from performance to connection—with the music, the movement, and the people around you. Unlike styles she felt became overly focused on showmanship, Azonto rekindled a sense of community and genuine expression. This presence in the moment allows dance to transcend technique, creating a shared experience of joy and unity.What You'll Learn in This EpisodeHow dance serves as a universal language, fostering connection and community.The deeper meanings behind movement, beyond choreography and performance..The role of cultural heritage in shaping artistic expression and personal growth.Why being present in the moment enhances the joy and authenticity of dance.Links and Resources:Sabrine Ewies’ Social Media and ProjectsInstagram: @sabou___Mentorship: 1:1 coachFeatured DancerEddie Love on Instagram: @eddieloveSabrine’s Upcoming Workshops and RetreatsDance Retreats: registrationGhana Dance Camp: registration💬 What's Your Key Takeaway? If Sabrine's story resonates with you, we want to hear from you! What inspired you most from this episode? Don’t forget to subscribe to Movement Is My Constant for more extraordinary stories about joyful movement practices. Share this episode with someone who could use a dose of inspiration, and let us know your favorite moment by leaving a review or tagging us on social media! Episode CreditsProduced, Edited and Mixed by Chris ForbesArtwork Design by Utterly CreateMusic is by Pictures of a Floating World from the Free Music archive.orgBe sure to follow and tag Movement is My Constant on Instagram
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    1 hr and 9 mins
  • Running as a Lifestyle: Jonathan Fors’ Path to the Marathon des Sables

    Running as a Lifestyle: Jonathan Fors’ Path to the Marathon des Sables
    Jan 9 2025
    In this episode, Jonathan shares his inspiring journey from a non-athletic background to becoming an ultra-runner. He discusses the role of mindfulness, the motivation behind setting ambitious goals, and the lessons learned from challenging ultra races. As he prepares for the upcoming Marathon des Sables, Jonathan delves into the physical and mental demands of endurance sports, highlighting the importance of training consistency, hydration, and embracing running as a lifestyle.The conversation also explores how pushing past perceived limits fosters personal growth and the need to disconnect from external pressures to focus on individual progress. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or just starting out, Jonathan’s story offers valuable insights into resilience and self-discovery through running.Episode Highlights:From Struggles to PassionJonathan’s first run was far from glamorous—it was “horrible.” Yet, through persistence and curiosity, he discovered a deep passion for running, proving that initial struggles can be the foundation of long-term success and fulfillment.Mindfulness in MotionJonathan shares how running serves as a mindful practice, grounding him in the present moment. Whether it's the rhythmic sound of his footsteps or the serene landscapes he passes, running has become his way of reconnecting with himself and the world around him.Mental Resilience in Ultra RunningUltra-marathons test not only the body but also the mind. Jonathan emphasizes the importance of mental resilience, especially when tackling extreme conditions like heat and challenging terrains. Staying present and focused has been his key to pushing through physical discomfort.The Power of Goal SettingFrom 3km to 100km, Jonathan’s journey illustrates the transformative power of setting and achieving goals. Each milestone brought personal growth, revealing new levels of potential he hadn’t realized existed.Support and CommunityDuring tough moments, support from friends has been a vital motivator for Jonathan. This connection underscores the role of community in navigating challenges, both in running and life.Lessons from the Marathon des SablesAs Jonathan prepares for the infamous Marathon des Sables, he highlights the necessity of preparation, self-sufficiency, and body awareness. Running in sand, much like snow, requires adaptation and an understanding of one's limits.Pushing Beyond ComfortJonathan believes that uncomfortability often leads to growth. By stepping outside of his comfort zone, he has discovered unexpected personal transformations and a deeper sense of what feels right in his heart.Trusting the ProcessFor Jonathan, the training is what truly counts. Each step, breath, and moment of preparation informs not only his performance but also his mindset, reminding us to focus on our capabilities and tune out external pressures.Learning to Listen to the BodyThrough his journey, Jonathan has become more attuned to his body’s signals—knowing when he’s reached his halfway point by how he feels or recognizing when he needs to prioritize self-care.Finding Joy in the ConversationJonathan’s enthusiasm for sharing his experiences reflects the joy he finds in running and personal growth. His story is a testament to the transformative power of following what feels right in both body and spirit.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Movement and Running02:54 Jonathan's Journey to Ultra-Distance Running05:47 The Transition from Casual to Competitive Running09:07 Setting Goals and Finding Motivation12:03 Mental Strategies for Endurance Running14:53 Overcoming Challenges During Races18:11 The Importance of Mindfulness in Running21:04 Preparing for Future Challenges25:53 The Challenge of Ultra Running in Extreme Conditions30:45 Pushing Beyond Perceived Limits35:35 The Balance Between Comfort and Challenge42:20 Creating a Lifestyle of Movement and PrioritizationLinks and Resources:Connect with JonathanFollow his runs on StravaLearn more about Marathon Des SablesEpisode Transcript: Ana Maia Marques - Founder Movement is My Constant (00:02.403)Welcome to Movement is My Constant. This is the podcast for breaking stagnation patterns. Through interviews with movement researchers, I seek inspiration in their experience and encourage you to stay curious, to explore movement with awareness, knowing that the body contains the intelligence to make decisions and communicate with grace. Enjoy this space. My name is Anna and I'm your host today. Ana Maia Marques - Founder Movement is My Constant (00:38.35)I think many of us lose or at least forget what we're actually capable of. We forget that we can push beyond the sort of comfort limits. Ana Maia Marques - Founder Movement is My Constant (00:59.724)My guest today is Jonathan Forrest. To describe Jonathan's love for running would be like trying to describe outer space to a dog. He thrives in it, loves every second and is proudly 100 % addicted. But it wasn't always that way. Growing...
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    52 mins
  • Building Strength: Cindy Ngamba’s Journey from Challenges to Triumph

    Building Strength: Cindy Ngamba’s Journey from Challenges to Triumph
    Dec 12 2024

    In this episode, I’m joined by the extraordinary Cindy Ngamba, a medal-winning boxer from the Olympic Refugee Team. This special episode was recorded live at the WebSummit in Lisbon. Cindy opens up about her inspiring journey—from overcoming life’s hurdles to standing on the Olympic podium.

    We dive deep into her daily training routines, focusing on the mental and physical strategies she uses to stay resilient under pressure. Cindy’s story is one of unyielding determination, profound wisdom, and a relentless curiosity about navigating life’s challenges.

    Episode Highlights:

    1. Cindy’s Olympic Dream:
      Cindy shares her remarkable journey to the Olympics, representing the Olympic Refugee Team. Learn about who inspires her and the unique challenges she faced on her path to the podium.
    2. Mental Adaptability & Strength:
      Discover the mental training techniques Cindy uses to remain calm and focused in high-pressure situations. From mindfulness practices to therapy, Cindy provides practical insights that anyone can incorporate into their daily lives.
    3. Physical Training Routine:
      Cindy breaks down the grueling physical training required to excel as a world-class boxer. She explains how her routines are not only about building strength and endurance but also fostering mental discipline and resilience.
    4. Life as a Refugee Athlete:
      Cindy reflects on her unique perspective as a member of the Olympic Refugee Team. She shares the challenges she has faced—both in sport and in life—and how they have shaped her into the person she is today.
    5. Wisdom Beyond the Ring:
      Beyond boxing, Cindy discusses her curiosity about the human experience and how exploring her emotions and states of mind has enriched her life. Her insights are as inspiring as they are relatable.

    What You’ll Learn in This Episode

    • Building mental toughness through intentional habits and practices.
    • The importance of curiosity and self-reflection in personal growth.
    • How challenges can be transformed into opportunities for greatness.

    Links and Resources:

    • Follow Cindy Ngamba on Instagram
    • Learn more about the Olympic Refugee Team and their mission: on their website and make sure to follow on Instagram

    💬 What's Your Key Takeaway?

    If Cindy’s story resonates with you, I want to hear from you! What inspired you most from this episode? Don’t forget to subscribe to Movement Is My Constant for more extraordinary stories about resilience and adaptability. Share this episode with someone who could use a dose of inspiration, and let me know your favorite moment by leaving a review or tagging Movement is My Constant on social media!

    Episode Credits
    Produced, Edited and Mixed by Chris Forbes
    Artwork Design by Utterly Create
    Music is by Pictures of a Floating World from the Free Music archive.org

    Be sure to follow and tag Movement is My Constant on Instagram
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    27 mins
  • How to Feed the Right Wolf, with Eric Zimmer

    How to Feed the Right Wolf, with Eric Zimmer
    Nov 21 2024

    In this episode of Movement Is My Constant, I’m joined by the incredible Eric Zimmer, host of the widely acclaimed podcast The One You Feed. Together, we take a deep dive into the transformative parable of the two wolves—a story that sheds light on the internal battles we face daily.

    Eric shares his insights on how this parable has shaped his life and work, offering practical tools to help you shift your mindset, cultivate positivity, and find balance in challenging times.

    About Eric Zimmer

    Eric is the host of The One You Feed, a weekly podcast featuring conversations with leading scientists, authors, psychologists, spiritual teachers, and public figures. With a focus on actionable wisdom, his show helps listeners take meaningful steps toward a better, more fulfilling life.

    What You’ll Learn in This Episode

    • The life-changing lessons behind the parable of the two wolves.
    • How to "feed the right wolf" through intentional thoughts and actions.
    • Practical tools for cultivating positivity and resilience.
    • The concept of finding the middle way when life feels overwhelming.
    • How movement and mindfulness can support your journey toward inner peace.

    About the Parable

    The two wolves parable, often attributed to the Cherokee tradition, tells the story of an internal struggle within us all. One wolf represents negative traits—anger, envy, greed—while the other embodies love, hope, and kindness. The wolf that thrives is the one you choose to feed.

    Links and Resources

    • Listen to Eric’s podcast, The One You Feed
    • Connect with Eric Zimmer
    • Follow Movement Is My Constant for more inspiring episodes

    💬 What’s Your Takeaway?
    Which wolf are you feeding today? Share your thoughts on Instagram or wherever you listen to podcasts! Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review to help others discover Movement Is My Constant!

    Episode Credits
    Produced, Edited and Mixed by Chris Forbes
    Artwork Design by Utterly Create
    Music is by Pictures of a Floating World from the Free Music archive.org

    Be sure to follow and tag Movement is My Constant on Instagram
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    1 hr and 3 mins
  • Happiness Unlocked: Master the Art of Joy

    Happiness Unlocked: Master the Art of Joy
    Sep 25 2024

    In this episode, we delve into the transformative power of laughter and how it affects our overall well-being. Thomas and Elisabeth, from the Lisbon-based company Fall in Laugh, share their insights on the joy of laughter and its impact on health.

    Key Topics Covered:

    • The Science of Laughter: Understanding how laughter lowers stress levels and boosts immunity.
    • Physical Benefits: How laughter acts as a natural painkiller and massages internal organs through diaphragm movement.
    • Mental Health Boost: The role of laughter in enhancing mood and resilience.
    • Practical Tips: Simple ways to incorporate more laughter into your daily life.

    Quotes:

    • “For the first time since 6 months I was feeling better and better” (Thomas is sharing his personal story) 07:20
    • “The reason you don't live the life your desire is because you live the life you don't want”

    Resources Mentioned:

    • Fall in Laugh website and Instagram account
    • How to start your laughter

    Connect with Movement is My Constant:

    • On Instagram
    • More about MiMC

    Call to Action: If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, rate, and review! Share your favorite laughter moments with us on social media using #FallInLaugh.

    Episode Credits
    Produced, Edited and Mixed by Chris Forbes
    Artwork Design by Utterly Create
    Music is by Pictures of a Floating World from the Free Music archive.org

    Be sure to follow and tag Movement is My Constant on Instagram
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    51 mins
  • Ana and guests: Conversations Highlights

    Ana and guests: Conversations Highlights
    Aug 28 2024

    Today’s episode is a collection of highlights from interviews I’ve had this year.

    The goal is to sum up the extraordinary diversity of voices in this podcast that share their knowledge and experience about movement research, for the physical, mental and emotional body.

    In this episode you can find the following highlights:

    If we think of truth as something circular, we all have a vision, a perspective of it, the more perspectives, the more we are able to see the whole, Inez Aires - Inez Aires highlights her work with the Prison Yoga Project in Portuguese prisons, where yoga is used to address trauma and tension, providing a safe space for inmates

    I didn't find one single person with the same perception that I have, BSP.Performs - BSP.Performs discusses synesthesia, a condition where senses blend, and how she uses it to ignite curiosity in her clients, exploring its various dimensions and how it can be developed.

    What is dance beyond the tricks the body can do, Mara Morgado - Mara Morgado reflects on the significance of being a woman in today's world, focusing on the importance of women's work beyond just physical capabilities in dance.

    Problems with mental health are often articulated by a kind of foreclosures of availabilities, Dr. Nicholas Samstag - In this highlight Dr Nicholas talks about neuroplasticity, explaining how mental health issues often stem from limitations in mental availability, and what can be done to maintain a healthy mind.

    There is no knowledge in the comfort zone, Beatrice Savaris - Beatrice shares insights from years of teaching, emphasizing the importance of stepping out of comfort zones to foster curiosity and achieve growth.

    There are strong evidences in scientific research on exercise to manage these levels of fatigue, Silvia Rodrigues - Silvia highlights the critical role of movement in helping breast cancer patients manage fatigue and regain a sense of identity, supported by scientific research.

    Episode Credits
    Produced, Edited and Mixed by Chris Forbes
    Artwork Design by Utterly Create
    Music is by Pictures of a Floating World from the Free Music archive.org

    Be sure to follow and tag Movement is My Constant on Instagram
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    53 mins
  • Paola Brignoli: Sustainable Performance for Work Life Balance

    Paola Brignoli: Sustainable Performance for Work Life Balance
    Jul 29 2024

    In this episode, I am delighted to welcome Paola Brignoli, an expert in driving organisational change through inclusive approaches. Paola shares her extensive experience in fostering better leadership practices that enhance team dynamics and pave the way for sustainable performance. She emphasises the importance of inclusivity, ensuring every voice is heard and valued within the organisation.

    Key Topics Discussed

    • Inclusive Approaches to Organisational Change: Paola explains how inclusivity can help organisations navigate change more effectively.
    • Leadership and Sustainable Performance: Insights on how better leadership practices contribute to long-term success.
    • The Importance of Rest: The critical role of rest in achieving peak performance and maintaining overall well-being.
    • Wellbeing, Mental Health, and Soft Skills: The main pillars of Paola’s work and their significance in creating a healthy work environment.
    • Yoga and Mindfulness: Specific practices recommended by Paola to improve work-life balance, reduce stress, and enhance productivity.

    Connect with Paola Brignoli

    • LinkedIn
    • Instagram

    Subscribe and Review:

    If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review on Movement is My Constant. Your feedback helps us bring more inspiring and informative content to you.

    Join the Conversation:

    Follow us on Instagram and share your thoughts on this episode using #movementismyconstant. We love hearing from our listeners!

    Thank you for tuning in!

    Episode Credits
    Produced, Edited and Mixed by Chris Forbes
    Artwork Design by Utterly Create
    Music is by Pictures of a Floating World from the Free Music archive.org

    Be sure to follow and tag Movement is My Constant on Instagram
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    1 hr and 32 mins
  • Silvia Rocha Rodrigues: Prescribing Exercise and Movement for Inflammatory Diseases

    Silvia Rocha Rodrigues: Prescribing Exercise and Movement for Inflammatory Diseases
    Jun 27 2024

    In this episode of Movement is My Constant I am joined by Silvia Rocha Rodrigues, a specialist in exercise oncology. Silvia dives deep into the transformative power of movement and exercise for breast cancer patients. She shares her expertise on how tailored exercise programs can significantly enhance the recovery process, reduce treatment side effects, and improve overall quality of life.

    Key topics Covered:

    • Introduction to Silvia Rocha Rodrigues: Learn about Silvia's background and her journey into exercise oncology.
    • The Role of Exercise in Cancer Recovery: Understand the benefits of prescribed movement and how it aids in the physical and emotional recovery of breast cancer patients.
    • Personalised Exercise Programs: Discover the importance of customising exercise routines to meet the unique needs of each patient.
    • Reducing Treatment Side Effects: Insights into how exercise can mitigate common side effects such as fatigue.
    • Improving Quality of Life: How consistent physical activity contributes to better mental health, increased energy levels, and overall well-being.
    • Scientific Evidence: Silvia shares the latest research and studies supporting the benefits of exercise for cancer patients.
    • How to Move Forward: How to bring awareness to healthcare providers on incorporating exercise into cancer care plans.

    Resources:

    • Silvia Rocha Rodrigues profile
    • About the project (In Portuguese)

    Subscribe and Review:

    If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review on Movement is My Constant. Your feedback helps us bring more inspiring and informative content to you.

    Join the Conversation:

    Follow us on Instagram and share your thoughts on this episode using #movementismyconstant. We love hearing from our listeners!

    Thank you for tuning in!

    Episode Credits
    Produced, Edited and Mixed by Chris Forbes
    Artwork Design by Utterly Create
    Music is by Pictures of a Floating World from the Free Music archive.org

    Be sure to follow and tag Movement is My Constant on Instagram
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    36 mins