Movement Is My Constant: Real conversations on movement, mindfulness, and making meaningful change - for creatives, caregiver

Ana Maia Marques

This podcast is for the ones who hold space for others—therapists, coaches, educators, healthcare workers, NGO staff, facilitators, and creatives—yet often struggle to make space for themselves. Hosted by Ana, a mindfulness teacher and embodiment facilitator with a background in UX and a passion for thoughtful living, Movement Is My Constant explores how we can stay present, grounded, and resilient while navigating personal growth, life transitions, and the messy in-betweens. Through honest conversations with movement experts, scientists, and thinkers across disciplines, you'll get insights and tools that help you reconnect with your body, build emotional resilience, and move through change with more clarity and ease. You might be wondering... "How can I feel more grounded when life feels overwhelming?" "What does mindfulness actually look like in everyday life?" "How do I keep giving to others without burning out?" "What role does movement play in emotional and mental clarity?" "How do I navigate change when I don’t have a clear plan?" "How can I reconnect with myself after a big life shift?" "Can I grow without constantly pushing myself?" "What are the science-backed ways to feel more present and whole?" If you’re a curious, thoughtful human doing meaningful work—and looking for ways to stay centered while doing it—this podcast is for you. 🎧 Subscribe now and get grounded, insightful episodes that feel like a deep exhale. Each episode delves into blending movement and mindful (or body-mind) practices, embodiment tools, and lived experiences to support your growth, clarity, and well-being—so you can keep showing up for others without losing yourself.

  1. Light Touch Massage and Fascia: Rethinking Chronic Pain with Peter Stuart

    22/01

    Light Touch Massage and Fascia: Rethinking Chronic Pain with Peter Stuart

    Episode overview Peter Stuart has spent decades working with people whose pain did not resolve through conventional treatments. In this conversation, we unpack why “doing the right thing” often is not enough, especially when fascia, trauma, and the nervous system are ignored or misunderstood. We talk about fascia as a communicative, responsive system rather than inert tissue, why aggressive techniques can backfire in chronic pain, and what it actually means to listen to the body rather than impose change on it. Peter also speaks candidly about the emotional and relational dimensions of manual therapy, and the responsibility practitioners have to educate, not just treat. This episode is for therapists questioning their methods, patients stuck in cycles of treatment without progress, and anyone interested in a more nuanced, humane model of healing. What we cover What fascia is, and why it matters more than most training programmes admitWhy chronic pain persists even when anatomy looks “fine”Light touch versus force, and why subtle input often creates deeper changeThe role of trauma, safety, and perception in physical healingHow therapists can work with the nervous system instead of against itWhy patient education is not optional if you want lasting resultsThe relational and empathic skills manual therapy actually requiresChapters 00:00 Introduction to Peter Stuart and Fascia 01:31 Understanding Fascia: Anatomy and Function 05:28 The Impact of Fascia on Healing 07:52 Gentle Touch Myofascial Release Explained 09:37 The Shift from Traditional to Holistic Approaches 16:06 Therapist Education and the Need for Intuition 18:59 Burnout in Therapists: Finding Balance 28:31 Trauma Beyond the Dramatic: Understanding Accumulated Stress 33:13 The Importance of Rest and Cycles 35:51 Volunteering and Community Connection 39:19 Understanding Chronic Pain and Trauma 43:42 The Role of Emotional Release in Therapy 51:54 Empowering Therapists and Clients for Change About the guest Peter Stuart's seminars Linkedin Facebook   Call to Action Subscribe to Movement Is My Constant wherever you listen. And if this episode sparked something, share it—with someone who could use a bit more self-worth in their life. For more at the intersection of movement, health, and systems change, join the newsletter at movementismyconstant.com/newsletter. 🎙️ More Episodes: movementismyconstant.com 📱 Follow on Instagram: @movementismyconstant ✨ Want to go deeper? Explore my mindfulness courses and 1:1 sessions at MiCa Mindfulness — designed to support caregivers, creatives, and mission-driven humans. Episode CreditsProduced, Edited and Mixed by Chris ForbesArtwork Design by Utterly CreateMusic 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 🎧 Subscribe now and get grounded, insightful episodes that feel like a deep exhale

    59 min
  2. Why Fitness Is Not About Confidence but Self-Worth – with Nicole Zapoli

    18/12/2025

    Why Fitness Is Not About Confidence but Self-Worth – with Nicole Zapoli

    Episode Notes In this conversation, Nicole Zapoli former Junior Olympic gymnast, a natural bodybuilding pro, a top five percent CrossFit Games Open athlete, and the author of Live FIT From the Inside Out, explores the profound connection between movement, emotional stability, and personal growth. Our conversation delves into the differences between self-worth and self-confidence, emphasizing the need for a deeper understanding of one's value beyond external achievements.   What We Cover Every workout is an opportunity to learn about oneselfMovement is a form of self-respect and honorMovement is essential for emotional stabilityVisualisation can help conquer fears before physical challengesSelf-worth is foundational and cannot be earned; it is inherentChallenging oneself physically can enhance self-respect and worth  Chapters 00:00 The Importance of Movement 07:45 Building Resilience Through Discipline 14:20 Overcoming Challenges and Getting Unstuck 23:00 Understanding Self-Worth vs. Self-Confidence 29:00 The Journey of Personal Growth 35:00 Mindset: The Key to Sustainable Change 37:20 Mindset and Fitness: The Core Connection 43:30 Setting Goals: Overcoming Challenges in Training 51:40 Embracing Growth: The Journey of Self-Respect 01:00:00 Energy Boost: Quick Tips for Immediate Motivation   About Nicole Zapoli Nicole Zapoli Live FIT From the Inside Out Facebook Instagram YouTube   Call to Action Subscribe to Movement Is My Constant wherever you listen. And if this episode sparked something, share it—with someone who could use a bit more self-worth in their life. For more at the intersection of movement, health, and systems change, join the newsletter at movementismyconstant.com/newsletter. 🎙️ More Episodes: movementismyconstant.com 📱 Follow on Instagram: @movementismyconstant ✨ Want to go deeper? Explore my mindfulness courses and 1:1 sessions at MiCa Mindfulness — designed to support caregivers, creatives, and mission-driven humans. Episode CreditsProduced, Edited and Mixed by Chris ForbesArtwork Design by Utterly CreateMusic 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 🎧 Subscribe now and get grounded, insightful episodes that feel like a deep exhale

    56 min
  3. Darryl Edwards on The Science of Play: Movement as a Complete Human Experience

    27/11/2025

    Darryl Edwards on The Science of Play: Movement as a Complete Human Experience

    Episode Notes In this conversation, Darryl Edwards, founder of the Primal Play method explores the significance of movement and play in enhancing physical and mental health. Darryl shares his journey from a sedentary lifestyle to discovering the Primal Play method, which emphasises the importance of playful movement. We discuss the four pillars of the Primal Play method, the science behind movement, and the emotional and cognitive benefits of being active. The conversation highlights how adults can transform mundane tasks into playful activities, fostering a healthier relationship with movement and encouraging adaptability in their lives.   What We Cover For Darryl movement is the genesis of explorationPlay is a way to discover the inner childMovement is medicineHumans evolution to move is pivotal for hormonesMovement impacts the “feel good” hormonesPlay is an advanced way of working outLearning to turn something mundane into play  Timestamps 00:00 Introduction to Movement and Health 02:39 Darryl's Journey to Movement 05:24 The Primal Play Method Explained 08:05 The Four Pillars of Primal Play 10:40 Exercise Physiology and Health Benefits 13:30 Cognitive Neuroscience and Movement 18:11 The Role of Play in Movement 25:59 Reconnecting with Our Inner Child 32:16 The Joy of Movement and Play 36:34 Play vs. Exercise: The Focus on Joy 43:46 Caution in Adult Movement 49:46 Sedentary Behavior and Its Consequences 55:18 Adaptability Through Play 56:28 Embracing Playfulness in Daily Life 59:03 The Serious Side of Play 01:03:42 Transforming Mundane Tasks into Play 01:13:25 Stress Testing Adaptability through Play   About Darryl Edwards The Primal Play Method Why Working Out Isn’t Working Out (TED Talk) Publications X (Twitter) Facebook Pinterest Instagram Linkedin   Call to Action Subscribe to Movement Is My Constant wherever you listen. And if this episode sparked something, share it—with someone who could use a bit more play in their life. For more at the intersection of movement, health, and systems change, join the newsletter at movementismyconstant.com/newsletter. 🎙️ More Episodes: movementismyconstant.com 📱 Follow on Instagram: @movementismyconstant ✨ Want to go deeper? Explore my mindfulness courses and 1:1 sessions at MiCa Mindfulness — designed to support caregivers, creatives, and mission-driven humans. Episode CreditsProduced, Edited and Mixed by Chris ForbesArtwork Design by Utterly CreateMusic 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 🎧 Subscribe now and get grounded, insightful episodes that feel like a deep exhale

    1 h 20 min
  4. Dr. Albert Bramante on Transforming Self-Sabotage into Growth: The Psychology of Movement and Mindset

    13/11/2025

    Dr. Albert Bramante on Transforming Self-Sabotage into Growth: The Psychology of Movement and Mindset

    Episode Notes We talk about how self-sabotage often signals a stagnant mind—and how movement, both mental and physical, can reawaken creativity. Dr. Albert Bramante explains how language models shape perception, how responsibility differs from blame, and why true artistry thrives on intrinsic value rather than external validation. Drawing on his experience as a performance psychologist and talent agent, Dr. Bramante explores the pressures of the entertainment industry, where artists often chase admiration in saturated markets. He offers grounded tools for transforming obstacles into opportunities, developing routines that support creative flow, and understanding the psychology behind sustainable artistic practice. What We Cover Accountability over feelingsHow language shifts perceptionResponsibility versus culpabilityTaking back power through languageStagnation as a form of self-sabotageThe trap of external validationFinding joy in the intrinsic value of artThe role of curiosity in personal growthWhen effort creates resistanceFor artists, creatives, high-performance professionals, and curious movers who feel out of touch with their art in a world driven by external validation.About Dr Albert Bramante Dr. Albert Bramante (he/him) is a talent agent, performance psychologist, and mindset expert who has spent over 20 years helping high performers—both in entertainment and beyond—overcome mental roadblocks. With a Ph.D. in Psychology and certifications in hypnosis and NLP, he bridges the gap between talent, business success, and the psychology of peak performance. Call to Action If you’ve ever felt stuck by self-doubt, struggled with external validation, or wanted to reconnect with your creative flow, this episode offers practical insights on transforming self-sabotage into growth. Dr. Albert Bramante shares strategies for shifting language, embracing responsibility, and cultivating curiosity so that artists, performers, and high-achievers can approach their work with intrinsic motivation and mental resilience. Subscribe to Movement Is My Constant wherever you listen. If this conversation resonates, share it — with an artist, performer, creative, or anyone seeking to embrace curiosity and flow in their craft. For more at the intersection of movement, health, and systems change, join the newsletter at movementismyconstant.com/newsletter. Let’s Connect 🎧 Subscribe to Movement Is My Constant on your podcast app. 🎙️ More Episodes: movementismyconstant.com 📱 Follow on Instagram: @movementismyconstant ✨ Want to go deeper? Explore my mindfulness courses and 1:1 sessions at MiCa Mindfulness — designed to support caregivers, creatives, and mission-driven humans. Episode CreditsProduced, Edited and Mixed by Chris ForbesArtwork Design by Utterly CreateMusic 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 🎧 Subscribe now and get grounded, insightful episodes that feel like a deep exhale

    46 min
  5. Moving Beyond Hustle Culture: Steven Puri on Flow States and Conscious Leadership

    30/10/2025

    Moving Beyond Hustle Culture: Steven Puri on Flow States and Conscious Leadership

    Episode Summary In this conversation, Steven Puri explores the evolution from hustle culture to a more mindful and embodied way of working and leading. We discuss curiosity, flow states, and intention in daily life, and how leadership rooted in service and humility can unlock personal and collective growth. Episode Notes In this lively and story-rich episode, Steven Puri—former film executive turned tech entrepreneur and daily yogi—shares the turning points that led him from Hollywood’s high-pressure culture to building Sukha, a flow-state app designed to help people work with greater intention and joy. He talks about the lessons yoga brings to leadership, the balance between focus and busyness, and the feedback loops that sustain creativity and growth. Through personal anecdotes—from tiger forests in India to coding breakthroughs on a flight—Steven reflects on how curiosity and service can shape meaningful, sustainable success. What We Cover The evolution from “hustle” to mindful productivityHow yoga reshaped Steven’s leadership and lifeTranslating flow and feedback loops into technologyThe role of curiosity and intention in meaningful workLeadership as service: creating the conditions for others to flourishThe importance of community and embodied awarenessAbout Steven Puri Steven Puri has been a senior executive on two major Hollywood lots (DreamWorks and Fox), raised over $20M in venture funding, and led three start-ups—one successful exit and two humbling failures. A daily yogi, he now channels his learning into Sukha, an app built to help knowledge workers and creatives achieve flow through mindful productivity. Call to Action If you’ve ever questioned the pressure to keep pushing or wondered how to work with more clarity and purpose, this episode is for you. It offers grounded insights on evolving beyond hustle culture, cultivating flow, and leading through service and mindfulness. Subscribe to Movement Is My Constant wherever you listen. If this conversation resonates, share it — with a teammate, a founder, a leader, or anyone seeking a more intentional way of working and living. For more at the intersection of movement, health, and systems change, join the newsletter at movementismyconstant.com/newsletter. Let's Connect 🎧 Subscribe to Movement Is My Constant on your podcast app. 🎙️ More Episodes: movementismyconstant.com 📱 Follow on Instagram: @movementismyconstant ✨ Want to go deeper? Explore my mindfulness courses and 1:1 sessions at MiCa Mindfulness — designed to support caregivers, creatives, and mission-driven humans. Episode CreditsProduced, Edited and Mixed by Chris ForbesArtwork Design by Utterly CreateMusic 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 🎧 Subscribe now and get grounded, insightful episodes that feel like a deep exhale

    1 h
  6. Jori Meijer on Hidden Body, Handstands, and the Subtle Art of Movement

    16/10/2025

    Jori Meijer on Hidden Body, Handstands, and the Subtle Art of Movement

    In this episode, Jori Meijer delves into the transformative potential of movement through her work at Hidden Body, a movement school located in the Netherlands redefining physical education for the 21st century. She illuminates how movement is more than mechanics—it’s relational, cognitive, and emotional, connecting us to ourselves and others. From the structural insights of tensegrity to the disciplined experimentation of handstands, Jori emphasizes unlearning, progressive overload, and long-term relationships as catalysts for personal and collective growth. What We Cover: The evolution of human movement and its relevance todayUnderstanding tensegrity and the body as a living, adaptable organismHow progressive overload and unlearning improve efficiencyUsing the handstand as a metaphor for mastering diverse skillsThe relational and subtle dimensions of movement in practiceThe role of micro-communities in fostering growth and connectionAbout Jori Meijer: Jori Meijer is one of the co-founders of HiddenBody, a movement school located in the Netherlands redefining physical education for the 21st century. She guides students to explore both gross and subtle dimensions of movement, fostering curiosity, relational awareness, and embodied learning. Call to Action / Let’s Connect: Learn more about Jori's work at HiddenBody in Amsterdam, or follow her on Instagram at Jori Meijer Subscribe to Movement Is My Constant wherever you listen. For more content at the intersection of movement, health, and systemic change, join the newsletter at movementismyconstant.com/newsletter. ✨ Want to go deeper? Explore my mindfulness courses and 1:1 sessions at MiCa Mindfulness — designed to support caregivers, creatives, and mission-driven humans. Episode CreditsProduced, Edited and Mixed by Chris ForbesArtwork Design by Utterly CreateMusic 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 🎧 Subscribe now and get grounded, insightful episodes that feel like a deep exhale

    50 min
  7. Why Posture Isn’t About Sitting Up Straight – Patrick Johnson on Alexander Technique and Mindfulness

    25/09/2025

    Why Posture Isn’t About Sitting Up Straight – Patrick Johnson on Alexander Technique and Mindfulness

    Episode Summary Many of us try to “fix” our posture by pulling our shoulders back or holding ourselves upright. Patrick Johnson suggests this approach is doomed to fail. Posture, he argues, isn’t a position to hold but a state of being shaped by attention, environment, and emotion. In this episode, Patrick—Alexander Technique teacher, scientist, and co-founder of Smartbody Studio in Amsterdam—explains why posture is less about correction and more about awareness. Drawing on years of teaching, research, and practice, he shows how habits of focus and tension pull us forward at the computer, how expanding awareness changes our embodied state, and why posture is inseparable from stress and presence. What We Cover The myth of “fixing” posture and why it doesn’t work.How attention, stress, and environment shape our embodied state.The pyramid of practice: from stillness to non-goal-directed movement to everyday life.How running can shift from pushing through discomfort to the rhythmic pleasure of movement.Why Alexander Technique and mindfulness offer different yet complementary tools for presence.The challenge of teaching: embodying what you want students to experience.Patrick’s bigger question: how posture and awareness can help us enjoy life more—and help others do the same.About the Guest Patrick Johnson is an Alexander Technique teacher, scientist, and movement educator based in Amsterdam. Certified in 2010, he has taught internationally and co-runs Smartbody Studio with his wife, Jelena Petrovic. With over 40 peer-reviewed publications, his research explores posture, movement, and the intersection of Alexander Technique and mindfulness. Patrick also teaches anatomy and physiology to Pilates and Alexander teachers, leads workshops on running and walking, and has a long background in contact improvisation dance. Call to Action Learn more about Patrick’s work at Smartbody Studio in Amsterdam, or follow him on Instagram at smartbody_alexander_technique. Subscribe to Movement Is My Constant wherever you listen. For more content at the intersection of movement, health, and systemic change, join the newsletter at movementismyconstant.com/newsletter. Let’s Connect 🎧 Subscribe to Movement Is My Constant on your podcast app. 🎙️ More Episodes: movementismyconstant.com 📱 Follow on Instagram: @movementismyconstant If this episode resonated, share it—with a friend, a coach, or anyone who has ever wondered why posture matters beyond “sitting up straight.” ✨ Want to go deeper? Explore my mindfulness courses and 1:1 sessions at MiCa Mindfulness — designed to support caregivers, creatives, and mission-driven humans. Episode CreditsProduced, Edited and Mixed by Chris ForbesArtwork Design by Utterly CreateMusic 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 🎧 Subscribe now and get grounded, insightful episodes that feel like a deep exhale

    1 h 1 min
  8. 11/09/2025

    Reflexology for Pain Relief and Preventive Care with Dr. Njideka Olatunde

    Episode Summary Reflexology isn’t just a foot massage — it’s a powerful tool for pain relief, preventive healthcare, and emotional balance. In this episode, Dr. Njideka Olatunde, naturopath, author of Reflexology Today: A Family Affair, and founder of the Focus on Healing Wellness Institute, explains how reflexology works through the nervous system to reduce pain, relieve stress, and restore the mind–body–spirit connection. We explore why reflexology is recognized as healthcare in some countries but overlooked in the US, how intentional touch can act as a peace-making practice, and simple reflexology techniques you can use at home to support your own wellbeing. What We Cover How reflexology works with the nervous system to relieve pain without medicationThe cultural roots of healing practices and why touch is a universal connectorWhy reflexology is recognized as healthcare in some countries but sidelined in the USReflexology as a peace-making tool for individuals, families, and communitiesThe patient–practitioner relationship and why healing begins with the question, “What do you want?”Practical techniques listeners can try at home, including Njideka’s “touchology handshake”About the Guest Dr. Njideka Olatunde is the founder of the Focus on Healing Wellness Institute, a master reflexologist, educator, and consultant specializing in pain relief and preventive care. She is the author of Reflexology Today: A Family Affair and the creator of Touchology Reflexology Therapy. With decades of experience bridging traditional healing and modern healthcare, Dr. Olatunde has helped thousands of people reclaim control of their health without dependency on medication. Call to Action Visit focusonhealing.com to explore Dr. Olatunde’s offerings.Subscribe to Movement Is My Constant wherever you listen. If this episode resonates, share it — with a friend, a therapist, a changemaker, or even a skeptic.For more at the intersection of movement, health, and systems change, join the newsletter at movementismyconstant.com/newsletter. Let’s Connect 🎧 Subscribe to Movement Is My Constant on your podcast app. 🎙️ More Episodes: movementismyconstant.com 📱 Follow on Instagram: @movementismyconstant Share this episode with someone who’s curious about preventive healthcare or looking for natural approaches to pain relief   ✨ Want to go deeper? Explore my mindfulness courses and 1:1 sessions at MiCa Mindfulness — designed to support caregivers, creatives, and mission-driven humans. Episode CreditsProduced, Edited and Mixed by Chris ForbesArtwork Design by Utterly CreateMusic 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 🎧 Subscribe now and get grounded, insightful episodes that feel like a deep exhale

    59 min

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This podcast is for the ones who hold space for others—therapists, coaches, educators, healthcare workers, NGO staff, facilitators, and creatives—yet often struggle to make space for themselves. Hosted by Ana, a mindfulness teacher and embodiment facilitator with a background in UX and a passion for thoughtful living, Movement Is My Constant explores how we can stay present, grounded, and resilient while navigating personal growth, life transitions, and the messy in-betweens. Through honest conversations with movement experts, scientists, and thinkers across disciplines, you'll get insights and tools that help you reconnect with your body, build emotional resilience, and move through change with more clarity and ease. You might be wondering... "How can I feel more grounded when life feels overwhelming?" "What does mindfulness actually look like in everyday life?" "How do I keep giving to others without burning out?" "What role does movement play in emotional and mental clarity?" "How do I navigate change when I don’t have a clear plan?" "How can I reconnect with myself after a big life shift?" "Can I grow without constantly pushing myself?" "What are the science-backed ways to feel more present and whole?" If you’re a curious, thoughtful human doing meaningful work—and looking for ways to stay centered while doing it—this podcast is for you. 🎧 Subscribe now and get grounded, insightful episodes that feel like a deep exhale. Each episode delves into blending movement and mindful (or body-mind) practices, embodiment tools, and lived experiences to support your growth, clarity, and well-being—so you can keep showing up for others without losing yourself.