Movers Mindset

How can movement and mindset be used as tools for healing, growth, and fostering connections in both personal and community contexts?

Rodrigo Stavale and Craig Constantine dip into several topics, including podcasting, children’s learning, and the power of unconventional teaching methods. Stavale emphasizes the significance of modeling and creative play in fostering children’s development and understanding of movement. They discuss the importance of providing diverse environments, such as streets and parks, to encourage risk management and creativity. Stavale also touches upon the value of self-reflection and feedback, noting the benefits of recording podcasts to capture and analyze one’s progress.

Stavale discusses the role of podcasting as a tool for self-reflection and assessment, allowing individuals to evaluate their progress and explore new movement approaches. He also highlights the significance of injuries, explaining how they provide valuable learning experiences that increase body awareness and strengthen individuals.

"The best environment to develop kids is in streets, parks, and places with lots of information for them to manage the risks, see the challenge, and be creative." ~ Rodrigo Stavale, 22'30"

Observing his daughter's learning process, Stavale emphasizes the importance of modeling movements rather than relying on strict instructions. He describes the value of creativity and playfulness in children's exploration of movement challenges, allowing them to develop their own ideas and philosophy.

Stavale also underscores the importance of self-assessment in movement practice. He encourages individuals to analyze their movements, using methods such as video recordings or written observations, to identify areas for improvement and track progress. Through self-reflection, individuals can deepen their understanding, maintain motivation, and discover innovative approaches to movement challenges.

Takeaways

Emphasizing accessibility and relatability — Stavale emphasizes the importance of making his projects and videos accessible and relatable to a wide audience. His goal is to inspire others by showcasing movements that are impressive yet achievable, creating a sense of possibility and encouraging individuals to engage in physical activity.

Observing children's learning — Stavale highlights the value of observing how children naturally learn and play. He believes in incorporating their creative nature into movement-based activities, allowing them to explore and discover movements on their own terms. By embracing their innate curiosity and playfulness, children can develop their skills and movement capabilities.

Self-assessment and growth — Stavale encourages self-assessment and progress tracking as essential elements in movement development. By regularly evaluating one's own progress, identifying areas for improvement, and adapting movements and techniques accordingly, individuals can strive for continuous growth and self-improvement. Stavale sees challenges and obstacles as opportunities for learning and believes in pushing oneself to explore new movements and overcome personal limitations.

Resources

YouTube.com/stavaleparkourrio

@Stavale.Parkour on Instagram

Stavacast Stavale's podcast on Spotfy

(Written with help from Chat-GPT.)

--- Hello👋 I'm Craig Constantine.

In the Movers Mindset podcast, I talk with movement enthusiasts to learn who they are, what they do, and why they do it. I'm interested in the nature and philosophy of movement and in exploring themes like independence, self-direction, and human excellence. My interests color each conversation and provide some structure to Movers Mindset. But since I like to take the scenic route, every conversation ends up going somewhere unique.

The purpose of Movers Mindset is to create and share great conversations with movement enthusiasts. Each conversation feeds my insatiable curiosity, but I share them to turn on a light for someone else, to inspire them, or to give them their next question.

I appreciate your time and attention, and I don’t take it for granted.

--- Thank you!

Want more? Subscribe to the email list for weekly updates—new episodes and archive highlights delivered to your inbox.

I invite you to cultivate a meaningful life—through presence, not pursuit. You can learn more about me and all my projects at, https://craigconstantine.com.

If you'd like to support what I'm doing, here's what actually helps…

ɕ

What is the impact of physical injuries and personal loss on an individual's identity, community engagement, and resilience, particularly within the context of parkour and movement practice?

Join Eric Rubin and Craig Constantine as they reflect on the role of uncertainty in recovery and the need to accept and adapt to life-altering injuries, offering a glimpse into the emotional struggle of finding a new sense of self and purpose amidst uncertainty.

"Parkour, and being part of the parkour community… was one of the few times where I felt this solace from the grief and a connection to people." ~ Eric Rubin, ~20'10"

Eric shares his personal journey of how parkour has played a significant role in his life, teaching him valuable lessons in persistence, adaptation, and creativity. He recounts how parkour became a source of solace and connection during a challenging time marked by the loss of his brother to suicide and a debilitating Achilles tendon injury.

The conversation dives into the emotional impact of personal loss and how it can affect one's physical and mental well-being. Eric and Craig discuss the potential connections between emotional upheaval, such as grief, and the tendency to push oneself too hard in an effort to overcome challenges.

Finally, Eric expresses his struggle with uncertainty regarding his nerve injury and its long-term effects on his physical abilities. He shares his journey of acceptance, resilience, and finding ways to be a fulfilled individual regardless of the outcome, while still striving to give his best.

Throughout the conversation, the power of shared experiences, seeking inspiration from others who have faced similar challenges, and the importance of emotional support are emphasized. The transformative impact of parkour and the resilience it instills in individuals are central themes that emerge from Eric's story.

Takeaways

The transformative power of parkour — Parkour is portrayed as a practice that instills perseverance, adaptability, and creativity, offering valuable life lessons beyond physical skills.

The interconnectedness of emotional and physical challenges — Eric's experience with grief and his subsequent injury raises intriguing questions about the relationship between mental state, motivation, and the ability to overcome physical obstacles.

Embracing uncertainty and seeking new possibilities — Eric's acceptance of uncertainty regarding his recovery emphasizes the importance of resilience and finding alternative paths to fulfillment, even in the face of unforeseen challenges.

Resources

Eric's favorite podcast episode about loss and grief: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/stephen-colbert-grateful-for-grief/id1643163707?i=1000580162304

His favorite podcast about the mental and emotional side of injury: https://injuredathletesclub.com/

And Eric's Instagram sharing his recovery process: https://www.instagram.com/erics_achilles_chapter/

(Written with help from Chat-GPT.)

--- Hello👋 I'm Craig Constantine.

In the Movers Mindset podcast, I talk with movement enthusiasts to learn who they are, what they do, and why they do it. I'm interested in the nature and philosophy of movement and in exploring themes like independence, self-direction, and human excellence. My interests color each conversation and provide some structure to Movers Mindset. But since I like to take the scenic route, every conversation ends up going somewhere unique.

The purpose of Movers Mindset is to create and share great conversations with movement enthusiasts. Each conversation feeds my insatiable curiosity, but I share them to turn on a light for someone else, to inspire them, or to give them their next question.

I appreciate your time and attention, and I don’t take it for granted.

--- Thank you!

Want more? Subscribe to the email list for weekly updates—new episodes and archive highlights delivered to your inbox.

I invite you to cultivate a meaningful life—through presence, not pursuit. You can learn more about me and all my projects at, https://craigconstantine.com.

If you'd like to support what I'm doing, here's what actually helps…

ɕ

What strategies and practices can be employed to effectively balance physical, emotional, and mental well-being in personal and professional life?

Craig Constantine and Alex Lukens discuss movement practices and personal growth as they explore the notions of finding balance, and the importance of doing less in order to achieve more.

Doing less is okay and it's still effective… There's an identity attached to overdoing, overachieving, and winning. ~Alex Lukens

Craig and Alex explore the realm of movement practices and the quest for balance. They discuss the challenges of adopting a heart-centered approach and the fear attached to doing less in personal pursuits. Alex introduces the idea of developing a maximally efficient and minimally effortful movement practice by combining the philosophies of Chinese kung fu and Judo.

Your movement practice can be maximally efficient and minimally with minimal effort as long as you put the work in and the discipline up front. ~Alex Lukens

He draws parallels between movement practices and other disciplines, such as music, emphasizing the role of repetition, simplicity, and discipline in achieving profound results.

Takeaways

Discussing different approaches to journaling — Journaling can be used for various purposes, such as personal reflection, organizing thoughts, planning, and emotional processing.

Balancing ideas in journaling — It's important to balance the flow of ideas coming into and out of the journal, ensuring a productive use of journaling.

The role of intuition in journaling — Journaling based on how one feels at the moment can lead to more authentic and effective entries.

Emptying the mind through journaling — Journaling can create a negative space, allowing for a clearer and more focused mindset.

Morning anxiety and rewiring thoughts — Addressing and changing the initial thoughts upon waking can significantly impact the rest of the day.

The connection between movement and thinking — Movement can be a tool to process and organize thoughts, leading to a clearer mental state.

Impact of journaling on daily interactions — A clearer mind from journaling can lead to more engaging and enjoyable interactions throughout the day.

Creating a personal style in coaching — Developing a unique approach to coaching that balances the heart and mind, influenced by martial arts philosophies.

Working with high achievers — Helping overachievers find balance and avoid burnout by addressing both physical and mental aspects of their lives.

The misconception of physical exertion — Understanding that exertion is optional and not always necessary for effective movement or exercise.

Fidgeting and natural movement — Incorporating small, natural movements throughout the day can maintain mobility and physical health without structured exercise.

Integrating martial arts philosophies into coaching — Using principles from kung fu and judo, such as hard work over time and maximum efficiency with minimal effort, to guide clients.

Simplicity through repetition — Achieving simplicity in movement and practice through consistent, disciplined effort.

The importance of lessening mental exertion — Recognizing that reducing mental strain can be as important as physical practice for overall balance.

Developing a movement practice — Encouraging clients to create personalized movement practices that are efficient and effective with minimal effort.

Curiosity about others' movement practices — An interest in learning about different approaches to movement and how others develop their practices.

Challenges of guest outreach in podcasting — Identifying the logistical and relational challenges involved in scheduling and conducting podcast interviews.

Exploring themes through podcasting — Using podcasting as a method to explore and understand various themes and ideas from different perspectives.

The concept of minimal effective dose — Applying the principle of minimal effective dose to various aspects of life, including movement and journaling.

In-person training and connection — The value of meeting and training in person to enhance understanding and connection in coaching relationships.

Resources

fortysevenstyle.com: The web site for Alex's Fortysevenstyle work.

Exercised: Book Alex mentions, by Daniel Lieberman.

(Written with help from Chat-GPT.)

--- Hello👋 I'm Craig Constantine.

In the Movers Mindset podcast, I talk with movement enthusiasts to learn who they are, what they do, and why they do it. I'm interested in the nature and philosophy of movement and in exploring themes like independence, self-direction, and human excellence. My interests color each conversation and provide some structure to Movers Mindset. But since I like to take the scenic route, every conversation ends up going somewhere unique.

The purpose of Movers Mindset is to create and share great conversations with movement enthusiasts. Each conversation feeds my insatiable curiosity, but I share them to turn on a light for someone else, to inspire them, or to give them their next question.

I appreciate your time and attention, and I don’t take it for granted.

--- Thank you!

Want more? Subscribe to the email list for weekly updates—new episodes and archive highlights delivered to your inbox.

I invite you to cultivate a meaningful life—through presence, not pursuit. You can learn more about me and all my projects at, https://craigconstantine.com.

If you'd like to support what I'm doing, here's what actually helps…

ɕ

How can transformative personal experiences and advancements in addiction biology contribute to understanding and addressing addiction as a multifaceted issue?

From hiking across Spain to unraveling the biological roots of addiction, Evelyn Higgins reveals her personal and professional transformations.

"You're going to have three meetings along the way… You're going to have a meeting with yourself. You're going to have a meeting with the people that you meet along the way… And then your third meeting is going to be with God. And this was the kicker—he said, right now, you know exactly who you are; when you're finished, you'll be somebody completely different." ~ Evelyn Higgins, 5:20

Evelyn Higgins begins by sharing her transformative experience walking the Camino de Santiago, a 32-day journey across Spain that becomes a turning point in her life. Originally expecting to broadcast her radio show from the trail, she instead finds herself immersed in personal reflection, profound conversations with strangers, and spiritual exploration. On day twelve, a pivotal moment occurs when a priest mentions the "three meetings" she will encounter on her journey—with herself, others, and God—forever changing her perspective. This journey, undertaken at a turning point in her life, helps Evelyn gain a deeper understanding of her purpose, shifting how she approaches life and later influences her work.

The conversation shifts to Evelyn’s professional work with Wired For Addiction, where she applies genetic testing to understand and treat addiction and mental health disorders. She discusses the gap in current addiction treatment, which often neglects the biological components in favor of the psychosocial, and how her work seeks to identify 85 biomarkers linked to addiction. Highlighting the revolutionary nature of her research, Evelyn emphasizes the importance of addressing underlying physiological changes resulting from trauma and undiagnosed conditions. She also shares her passion for helping people understand their genetic predispositions to behaviors like addiction, offering a personalized approach to treatment that challenges conventional methods.

Takeaways

The Camino de Santiago experience — A 32-day journey becomes a personal transformation, providing insight into self, spirituality, and human connection.

The concept of the “three meetings” — Encounters with self, others, and God offer profound shifts in perspective and personal growth.

Taking risks to find purpose — Leaving behind daily responsibilities and routines can lead to unexpected discoveries and clarity of life's path.

The impact of profound experiences on life and work — A significant journey or event can reshape personal views and directly influence professional focus and passions.

Genetic testing for addiction — Modern technology allows for the identification of genetic markers, offering a more personalized approach to addiction and mental health treatment.

The limitations of traditional addiction treatment — Current methods often overlook the biological aspects of addiction, focusing primarily on psychosocial factors.

The biological component of addiction — Acknowledgment that underlying genetic predispositions and physiological changes are crucial to understanding and addressing addiction effectively.

Trauma and undiagnosed conditions — Life experiences and unaddressed mental or physical health issues alter physiology and play a significant role in addictive behaviors.

The stigma around addiction — Outdated perceptions persist, viewing addiction as a moral flaw rather than a disease with biological underpinnings.

Multifaceted identities — Professionals can have multiple aspects of their identity that may not always be immediately visible or understood by others.

Personalized health strategies — Knowing one’s unique genetic predispositions can help inform better decisions regarding substance use and mental health management.

Importance of holistic understanding — Addressing physical, emotional, intellectual, and spiritual health is key to personal well-being and recovery.

Sharing and connection on life journeys — Conversations and deep exchanges with strangers on a shared journey can lead to mutual understanding and personal breakthroughs.

Reevaluating life's direction — Milestones and transformative experiences can act as catalysts for reassessing one’s life purpose and future goals.

Resources

Wired For Addiction — A resource offering genetic testing to identify biomarkers related to addiction, substance abuse, and mental health disorders. Their goal is to address the biological components of addiction and provide personalized treatment options.

The Camino de Santiago — A renowned pilgrimage across Spain, traditionally beginning in France, offering a transformative walking experience for many travelers.

TEDx Talk by Evelyn Higgins — A talk that provides context for the creation of Wired For Addiction, discussing both the professional and personal motivations behind this work in addiction treatment. The talk can be viewed on the TEDx YouTube channel or via a search for Evelyn Higgins’ TEDx talk.

The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho — A popular book that inspires many to pursue their personal journeys and quests, including the Camino de Santiago.

The Pyrenees Mountains — The mountain range that forms a natural border between France and Spain, marking the challenging start of the Camino de Santiago for many pilgrims.

(Written with help from Chat-GPT.)

--- Hello👋 I'm Craig Constantine.

In the Movers Mindset podcast, I talk with movement enthusiasts to learn who they are, what they do, and why they do it. I'm interested in the nature and philosophy of movement and in exploring themes like independence, self-direction, and human excellence. My interests color each conversation and provide some structure to Movers Mindset. But since I like to take the scenic route, every conversation ends up going somewhere unique.

The purpose of Movers Mindset is to create and share great conversations with movement enthusiasts. Each conversation feeds my insatiable curiosity, but I share them to turn on a light for someone else, to inspire them, or to give them their next question.

I appreciate your time and attention, and I don’t take it for granted.

--- Thank you!

Want more? Subscribe to the email list for weekly updates—new episodes and archive highlights delivered to your inbox.

I invite you to cultivate a meaningful life—through presence, not pursuit. You can learn more about me and all my projects at, https://craigconstantine.com.

If you'd like to support what I'm doing, here's what actually helps…

ɕ

How can one balance the physical, mental, and social aspects of movement practices while teaching and maintaining personal growth?

The conversation explores how movement practice evolves from playful beginnings to structured teaching.

"I prefer the term still mind… because I want the— however exerted my body is, I wanted my mind to stay as calm as possible." ~ Martin Svenselius (21:51)

The conversation examines the challenges of balancing the physical joy of movement practice with the structured demands of teaching it. Martin reflects on the evolution from playful group activities to professional instruction, noting the difficulties of maintaining personal practice while managing classes. He discusses the need to balance work and play, particularly when movement becomes a career, and the psychological strain of sustaining this balance.

Another focus is on teaching methods that encourage self-leadership. Martin emphasizes the importance of understanding body mechanics, offering scalable challenges, and fostering creativity. He stresses how personal training values, such as calmness and consistency, shape their approach to coaching, while also exploring the need to challenge traditional views on physical training.

Takeaways

Balancing work and play — Achieving a sustainable relationship between teaching movement and personal practice.

Self-leadership — Helping students transition to self-directed training through scalable challenges and creativity.

Role of creativity — Encouraging exploration and adaptation in movement practice to foster personal growth.

Importance of mindset — Viewing training as a means to challenge oneself physically and mentally rather than just seeking comfort.

Teaching philosophy — Emphasizing understanding the body's mechanics over reliance on equipment.

Cultural and psychological layers — Addressing differences in training mindsets across cultures and individual personalities.

Consistency in practice — Incorporating movement daily to maintain personal growth and discipline.

Resources

Jersey Gregorek — Known as the "Lion of Olympic Weightlifting," who coined the phrase, "easy choices, hard life; hard choices, easy life."

(Written with help from Chat-GPT.)

--- Hello👋 I'm Craig Constantine.

In the Movers Mindset podcast, I talk with movement enthusiasts to learn who they are, what they do, and why they do it. I'm interested in the nature and philosophy of movement and in exploring themes like independence, self-direction, and human excellence. My interests color each conversation and provide some structure to Movers Mindset. But since I like to take the scenic route, every conversation ends up going somewhere unique.

The purpose of Movers Mindset is to create and share great conversations with movement enthusiasts. Each conversation feeds my insatiable curiosity, but I share them to turn on a light for someone else, to inspire them, or to give them their next question.

I appreciate your time and attention, and I don’t take it for granted.

--- Thank you!

Want more? Subscribe to the email list for weekly updates—new episodes and archive highlights delivered to your inbox.

I invite you to cultivate a meaningful life—through presence, not pursuit. You can learn more about me and all my projects at, https://craigconstantine.com.

If you'd like to support what I'm doing, here's what actually helps…

ɕ

What are the goals, challenges, and experiences shaping the Women's Parkour Movement and its annual gatherings?

Volunteer organizers reflect on the balance between leadership, inclusion, and community building in parkour.

"For me, the women's parkour movement space is much, much more about the feeling of being accepted and valued for what it is and who it is that you are and whatever you're bringing to the table." ~ Alice Popejoy (26:45)

"Whether parkour companies are sharing more female movement because of guilt or social pressure, the fact that it’s happening and we’re seeing more of it is a good thing." ~ Gabby St. Martin (43:08)

The conversation focuses on the Women's Parkour Movement organization, emphasizing the need for safe, empowering spaces for women and non-binary individuals in parkour. Gabby, Adrienne and Alice discuss the origins, leadership transitions, and ethos of the annual gatherings, highlighting the importance of fostering inclusivity, play, and body positivity. They share personal stories of discovering parkour and finding strength and community within women-centered spaces.

Challenges like representation, leadership diversity, and societal biases are explored, alongside positive trends in visibility and inclusion. The discussion touches on the broader implications of creating platforms that amplify underrepresented voices, with reflections on the impact of movements like "#MeToo" and strategies to build empathetic, inclusive communities.

Takeaways

Creating women-focused parkour spaces — fosters empowerment and community building.

Importance of inclusivity — ensuring spaces welcome women, non-binary individuals, and other underrepresented groups.

Volunteer leadership — highlights the dedication and personal sacrifices of organizers.

Play and creativity — emphasized as key elements of parkour practice in these spaces.

Challenges of representation — ongoing efforts are needed to improve visibility and leadership diversity.

Cultural shifts in parkour — moving toward valuing diverse styles beyond power and strength.

Addressing gender-based issues — from biases in coaching to ethical challenges in leadership.

The role of social media — visibility for women in parkour is increasing but requires further equity.

Resources

Women’s Parkour Movement — Includes event details and registration.

Queen City Documentary — Showcases female parkour athletes, and the need for inclusive spaces in parkour.

Recommendations for Increasing the Number of Women and Girls in Parkour — Alice Popejoy’s analysis of representation in parkour.

On Equal Prize Money and Women’s Participation in Parkour Competitions — Adrienne Toumayan’s article on women's participation in parkour competitions.

Bonfire WPKM — Event fundraising merchandise.

Art of Retreat — Workshops discussing gender, inclusion, and leadership in parkour.

(Written with help from Chat-GPT.)

--- Hello👋 I'm Craig Constantine.

In the Movers Mindset podcast, I talk with movement enthusiasts to learn who they are, what they do, and why they do it. I'm interested in the nature and philosophy of movement and in exploring themes like independence, self-direction, and human excellence. My interests color each conversation and provide some structure to Movers Mindset. But since I like to take the scenic route, every conversation ends up going somewhere unique.

The purpose of Movers Mindset is to create and share great conversations with movement enthusiasts. Each conversation feeds my insatiable curiosity, but I share them to turn on a light for someone else, to inspire them, or to give them their next question.

I appreciate your time and attention, and I don’t take it for granted.

--- Thank you!

Want more? Subscribe to the email list for weekly updates—new episodes and archive highlights delivered to your inbox.

I invite you to cultivate a meaningful life—through presence, not pursuit. You can learn more about me and all my projects at, https://craigconstantine.com.

If you'd like to support what I'm doing, here's what actually helps…

ɕ

What insights can be gained from exploring human movement, physics, and juggling in weightlessness?

Adam Dipert is a Postdoctoral Research Scholar in Physics at North Carolina State University and has wowed audiences as a professional circus performer for nearly twenty years. He started studying human movement in weightlessness in preparation for his first parabolic flight in 2016, and since then he has logged countless hours exploring the frontiers of microgravity flow in pools, aerial harnesses, flotation tanks, wind tunnels, and airplanes. In addition to developing a new suite of dance moves for outer space, he has exercised remarkable restraint not asking NASA for permission to spin fire on the ISS.

"And you’ve become only eyes, because you now no longer have a way of sensing where your body is. And not only do you only become eyes, but you’re also experiencing tunnel vision. And so when you enter weightlessness, and start to develop the skills which will be necessary to become a competent movement artist in that environment, you have to first figure out how to re inhabit your body and how to come back from just being eyes and realize that you have a head and find out where your arms are, and have some idea about where your arm is, say when it’s behind your back because, you know, right now on Earth, probably everybody listening to this is on earth, waving your arm. Yeah, you put your arm behind your back and and what is it that tells you where your arm is? It’s the tension in your shoulder, right? It’s the torque in your arm, elbow. It’s a lot of things that are all gravitationally oriented. And so you have to come with a totally new set of skills." ~ Adam Dipert (16:55)

This episode is far out, and far ranging. Adam and I managed to coordinate a recording session with little advanced notice… and then we proceeded to go wide and deep on circus stuff, juggling, physics, mathematics, and movement in weightlessness.

Since I clearly cannot cram the visuals into the audio, you simply must float over to Adam’s web site: TheSpaceJuggler.com

The conversation explores the unique challenges and opportunities of human movement and artistic expression in microgravity. One key topic is the disconnection from conventional proprioception in zero gravity, requiring innovative methods to reorient oneself and move effectively. The discussion also covers the physics of rotations and how understanding moments of inertia can inform both practical and artistic endeavors, like juggling in altered environments.

Another important focus is how altered environments like space could fundamentally change our understanding of what it means to be human. Insights about the adaptability of the human body, new forms of artistic expression, and philosophical reflections on perspective and truth highlight the broader implications of this work. The conversation also touches on the importance of preparing humanity for future space exploration, emphasizing the potential for cultural and intellectual growth through such endeavors.

Takeaways

Human proprioception in weightlessness — The experience of zero gravity requires a complete relearning of body orientation and movement.

Rotational dynamics in microgravity — Understanding how the human body rotates in space helps develop both practical movement skills and new artistic expressions.

Integration of physics and art — Combining physics with creative disciplines like juggling leads to innovative insights and applications.

Space as a proving ground — Microgravity environments challenge and expand human understanding of movement and adaptation.

Embodied cognition and ethics — Exploration of movement in space raises questions about how gravitational experiences shape human cognition and morality.

Philosophical dualities — Weightlessness provides a powerful metaphor for understanding multiple truths from different perspectives.

Preparation for space exploration — Analog environments are essential for developing skills and knowledge before venturing into true microgravity.

Resources

The Space Juggler — Adam’s official website showcasing his projects, videos, and information about space juggling.

Adam Dipert on LinkedIn

MIT Media Lab — A location where Adam has shared insights into his work on microgravity and movement.

Kitsou Dubois — French choreographer and dancer specializing in zero gravity dance.

International Jugglers’ Association — Organization where Adam has showcased his pioneering work in space juggling.

SpaceX — One of the private companies advancing human space exploration discussed in the conversation.

(Written with help from Chat-GPT.)

--- Hello👋 I'm Craig Constantine.

In the Movers Mindset podcast, I talk with movement enthusiasts to learn who they are, what they do, and why they do it. I'm interested in the nature and philosophy of movement and in exploring themes like independence, self-direction, and human excellence. My interests color each conversation and provide some structure to Movers Mindset. But since I like to take the scenic route, every conversation ends up going somewhere unique.

The purpose of Movers Mindset is to create and share great conversations with movement enthusiasts. Each conversation feeds my insatiable curiosity, but I share them to turn on a light for someone else, to inspire them, or to give them their next question.

I appreciate your time and attention, and I don’t take it for granted.

--- Thank you!

Want more? Subscribe to the email list for weekly updates—new episodes and archive highlights delivered to your inbox.

I invite you to cultivate a meaningful life—through presence, not pursuit. You can learn more about me and all my projects at, https://craigconstantine.com.

If you'd like to support what I'm doing, here's what actually helps…

ɕ

How does the process of reflection and self-improvement shape personal growth and teaching methodologies?

Alan Tran is a parkour coach and collaborator from Raleigh, North Carolina. He’s the founder of Enso Movement and is a director for both the Art of Retreat and the United States Parkour Association. Alan continues to serve the parkour and movement community through active service and outreach.

"I carved out the space to de-evolve and reinvent myself. In many ways, it wasn't intentional by any means, at the start of my personal practices. But in many ways, it was a way for me to redefine who I was, who I wanted to be, and where my work would lead to." ~ Alan Tran (29:36)

The discussion weaves through themes of reflection, journaling, and the impact of vulnerability on personal growth and teaching. Through daily journaling practices, the importance of documenting emotions, achievements, and challenges emerges as a way to identify growth and patterns over time. Cultural connections, like the preservation of family history through photography, also highlight how past experiences inform one’s values and identity.

The conversation also explores innovative teaching techniques inspired by training a dog using communication buttons. This segues into reflections on coaching methodologies, the value of structured progressions, and how spontaneity plays a role in both teaching and personal development. By examining challenges like preparing for workshops under time constraints and balancing intuition with structure, the dialogue emphasizes growth through experimentation and self-awareness.

Takeaways

Reflection as a practice — Journaling and revisiting past thoughts help in recognizing personal growth and emotional patterns.

Cultural connections — Family stories and historical documentation preserve identity and values across generations.

Coaching methodologies — Structured progressions and spontaneity are key elements in effective teaching.

Experimentation and intuition — Creativity and growth often stem from embracing failure and learning under pressure.

The role of vulnerability — Being authentic and open fosters meaningful interactions and personal development.

Resources

Alan Tran @alanstran

Alan Tran on LinkedIn

Enso Movement — A Parkour and movement facility focused on coaching and community engagement.

A New Earth — Book by Eckhart Tolle that explores spiritual awakening and the importance of presence.

The Artist's Way — Book by Julia Cameron emphasizing creativity through practices like morning pages.

What About Bunny — A famous dog trained to use communication buttons to "speak."

United States Parkour Association (USPK) — An organization supporting Parkour practitioners and events across the U.S.

(Written with help from Chat-GPT.)

--- Hello👋 I'm Craig Constantine.

In the Movers Mindset podcast, I talk with movement enthusiasts to learn who they are, what they do, and why they do it. I'm interested in the nature and philosophy of movement and in exploring themes like independence, self-direction, and human excellence. My interests color each conversation and provide some structure to Movers Mindset. But since I like to take the scenic route, every conversation ends up going somewhere unique.

The purpose of Movers Mindset is to create and share great conversations with movement enthusiasts. Each conversation feeds my insatiable curiosity, but I share them to turn on a light for someone else, to inspire them, or to give them their next question.

I appreciate your time and attention, and I don’t take it for granted.

--- Thank you!

Want more? Subscribe to the email list for weekly updates—new episodes and archive highlights delivered to your inbox.

I invite you to cultivate a meaningful life—through presence, not pursuit. You can learn more about me and all my projects at, https://craigconstantine.com.

If you'd like to support what I'm doing, here's what actually helps…

ɕ

How does play and movement intersect with personal growth, mental health, and the practice of Parkour?

Exploring how Parkour connects to mental health and play reveals deep personal insights.

"It's all about play. And I think that making— I love strengthening and I love building— you know, physical capacity. But in the end, that's just a couple of stepping stones towards building people's ability to play." ~ Kel Glaister (6:46)

The discussion opens with reflections on the influence of animals, like Kel's dog, on humility and how they bring perspective to human movement practice. The conversation then expands to explore the cultural and environmental factors shaping Parkour, emphasizing the unique styles and strengths fostered by different regions. There’s an emphasis on how community and environmental context influence the practice.

Kel shares personal insights about the role of play in movement and the transition from self-critical motivations to a more compassionate approach. Craig and Kel discuss the impact of mental health struggles and how this shaped their training philosophy, shifting focus toward longevity and joy in movement. The role of organizations like Parkour Earth is also examined, highlighting the importance of global representation and grassroots involvement in shaping the future of the discipline.

Takeaways

Nonhuman animals in movement — They provide perspective and humility to human practice.

Cultural and environmental influence — Regional differences shape distinct movement styles in Parkour.

Play as a foundation — Movement should be guided by joy and curiosity, not just performance.

Mental health and movement — Training can transition from self-loathing to self-compassion.

Role of global organizations — Community engagement is crucial for creating representative bodies.

Training longevity — A sustainable approach balances physical and emotional well-being.

The role of ambassadors — Advocacy and representation strengthen global networks in Parkour.

Resources

Parkour Earth — An international body aiming to represent and advocate for the Parkour community globally.

(Written with help from Chat-GPT.)

--- Hello👋 I'm Craig Constantine.

In the Movers Mindset podcast, I talk with movement enthusiasts to learn who they are, what they do, and why they do it. I'm interested in the nature and philosophy of movement and in exploring themes like independence, self-direction, and human excellence. My interests color each conversation and provide some structure to Movers Mindset. But since I like to take the scenic route, every conversation ends up going somewhere unique.

The purpose of Movers Mindset is to create and share great conversations with movement enthusiasts. Each conversation feeds my insatiable curiosity, but I share them to turn on a light for someone else, to inspire them, or to give them their next question.

I appreciate your time and attention, and I don’t take it for granted.

--- Thank you!

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