3 min read
Regulation. When we hear this word, we might imagine taking deep breaths, calming ourselves, easing off the brakes to come back to the moment. And while this absolutely is one way to regulate, there is also huge need to upregulate into action, as well as into calm. For instance when the body or mind struggle to find internal or cognitive self motivation. Because regulation isn't about just calming down when we are heightened (hyperaroused), but also about kickstarting momentum when we are under-expressed or 'frozen' (hypoaroused) and finding a good enough middle ground during both.
Essentially, regulation is not always about controlling or minimising, it's also about inspiring motion and rebalancing. Whether you are overstimulated (stressed, angry, overwhelmed into panic) or understimulated (bored, lethargic, overwhelmed into a freeze state), hyperaroused or hypoaroused, there is a way to return to a healthier baseline. So much research has gone into what we can do for ourselves when we are either, or even both of these states, known as nervous system states. This is particularly helpful information if you are neurodivergent or in a position of high responsibility.
We can be dysregulated acutely, where something immediately triggers us to feel 'off', or dysregulated chronically, where ongoing stress or repeated pressure leaves the body damaged. Whichever it is, if repeated the body begins to feel out of sync with its' own systems, because its' needs aren't being met and it cannot cope.
So how can you regulate with MTMG?
With MTMG you can choose to join a session that predominantly upregulates, or predominantly downregulates. And because we often all need a bit of both, depending on our current lifestyles and the fluctuating demands of life, you may find it helpful to try both. Once you start to feel the benefits of each practice, you might start to incorporate these techniques in your lifestyles from home. Because regulation isn't just a method, it is genuinely a tool for a more harmonious existence.
You can try a MIM session, which works with electronic music to both upregulate and downregulate. MIM sessions first get the body into a parasympathetic state of presence and relaxation, then upregulates with dance to activate and uplift. It is a predominantly upregulating practice as it is at its' core an aerobic workout, but always begins with a downregulating warm up that includes activities from both activity lists, such as tapping, music, and breathwork.
In Restoration sessions, those who might need a quiet hour, or if you're experiencing burnout or overwhelm, can come and reattune to where your body feels safe and calm. This is called Resourcing, where you discover your own internal resource for pinpointing peace and stability within yourself. Restoration sessions include guided imagery, breathwork, and calming music. The primary focus of these sessions is to welcome stillness back into the body for those who feel they need more calm.
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