Get Moving

Writing about movement, exercise, and dance

Movement and activity is part of human existence, whether we have a physical exercise routine, enjoy dancing, or simply find pleasure in moving our bodies in one way or another. Even a walk around the block can get us out of our heads and into our hearts, offering us an opportunity to expand our thinking and find creative solutions to problems.

Three silhouettes of people dancing against a red background. Photo by Samantha Weisburg on Unsplash

This week, I invite you to write about movement: dancing, physical exercise, or another form of activity. Rather than writing about movement in nature, I suggest you keep the focus on human movement. You may decide to write a scene or character study, a personal essay, or a poem.

Some ideas to get you started:

• What are some physical activities or exercises you enjoy or hate participating in?

• Do you watch sporting events or competitions? If so, what resonates with you most about how the athletes move?

• Do you enjoy dancing? Why or why not?

• Describe a time when you watched other people dancing. Was it at a nightclub, a stage performance, or on television? What resonated with you most about watching the dancers?

• What forms of movement inspire you? What movements do you find soothing or relaxing?

Black man dancing with one toe on ground and other leg raised up, with arm outstretched. Photo by Drew Dizzy Graham on Unsplash

Recommendation: set a timer for 25 minutes and see what comes up. You can write by hand or type it out—whatever writing method works for you.

Have fun writing!