In this episode of Meant to Move, Vanessa Leone and Emma Masters explore the intricate relationship between movement therapy, emotional health, and self-acceptance. Emma shares her journey from musical theatre to group fitness, describing her studio, Therapy, which offers Cycle, Run Lift, and Connect—each modality aims to provide different therapeutic experiences, from joy and euphoria to empowerment and mindfulness. They discuss the challenges of body image, the significance of movement therapy, and the need for a shift in the fitness narrative towards emotional health rather than aesthetics. The conversation highlights the power of group fitness, the impact of stress on mental health, and the therapeutic power of breath work.

You’ll learn about:

The deep connection between movement and emotions..

Fitness that focuses on mental well-being, not just aesthetics, is essential for overall health.

Creating a non-intimidating group fitness environment is crucial and can enhance emotional health..

How body positivity and self-love is a continuous journey of self-acceptance.

Breath work as a powerful therapeutic tool.

Our Favourite quotable moments:

"We are in a stress epidemic." - Emma

"Self-love is a daily practice." - Emma

"Breath work combines science and magic." - Emma

Resources:

In Sydney? Train with Vanessa in person!

Get in touch/Join my mailing list: Website or Instagram.

About your guest:

Emma Masters is an internationally acclaimed fitness presenter, educator, and business owner with nearly two decades of experience in the health and fitness industry. Having held senior roles, including Group Exercise Manager for Virgin Active in both Australia and the UK, Emma has established herself as a leader in the field. Emma is founder of Experience Age Consultancy, a company dedicated to group fitness education + boutique fitness consultancy as well as co-founder of Therapy Fitness, a studio and brand that aims to 'change the feeling of fitness' by focusing on the mental and emotional benefits of movement alongside physical wellness.

Instagram:instagram.com/ema_masters

instagram.com/therapyfitness_au

Website:https://www.experienceageconsultancy.com/

https://www.therapyfitness.com.au/

About Your Host:

Vanessa is a seasoned Movement Therapist with a vast array of skills and experiences in the industry. Her goal is to help as many people find betterment in their lives. She is known as an expert generalist, attaining high levels of education, and delivering a quality experience in both group fitness and personal training streams. Attaining betterment drives her knowledge and pursuit for further education for herself and everyone she encounters. Vanessa continues training clients and trainers all over the country and presenting at the International Fitness Conference. Vanessa’s ethos is doing things BETTER.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Meant to Move, Vanessa interviews Ian O'Dwyer (OD), a "movement coach" known for his holistic approach to movement therapy. OD shares his journey from semi-pro sports and plumbing to becoming a movement mentor. He emphasizes the importance of inclusivity, emotion, and interoception—listening to internal body signals. Through anecdotes, OD explains how tailored movement practices can prevent injuries and enhance joy. He advocates for intuitive, low-risk interventions like grounding and fluid flow exercises. The conversation highlights the significance of emotional intelligence and underscores the connection between emotion, intuition, and physical well-being, offering a refreshing perspective on fitness and wellness.

You’ll learn about:

• Movement therapy is about inclusivity and emotional connection, it should bring joy and happiness, not be a chore.
• Coaching is about listening and understanding individual needs, and respecting their unique movement journey.
• Interoception is crucial for understanding our body's signals.
• Grounding and connecting with nature can enhance well-being.
• Personal experiences, listening to our bodies, and challenging conventional fitness norms lead to better outcomes.

Our favourite quotable moments:

"You're a Movement Yoda!" - Vanessa

"Movement is my gig!" - OD

"Emotion is motion." -Vanessa

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Resources:

In Sydney? Train with Vanessa in person!

Join my mailing list: Website or Instagram.

About your guest Ian O’Dwyer:

Known to many as OD, Ian O’Dwyer’s multifaceted expertise spans the roles of Movement Coach, Sports Conditioner, Personal Trainer, Body Worker, Global Educator, Author, and Mentor. A former semi-professional athlete now based in Queensland’s Sunshine Coast, he blends expertise in movement coaching, tissue health, and performance conditioning with a holistic, inclusive approach. As a global educator, mentor, and innovator, he has co-founded industry-shaping organizations like PTA Global and Feel SOMA, challenging conventional fitness philosophies. Ian’s ability to observe, connect, and create immediate change empowers individuals to move with ease and joy. His mission is to shift the focus from limitations to sustainable well-being, inspiring people worldwide to embrace movement as a transformative experience.

IG - feel.soma

FB - /feelsoma

Website: https://www.feelsoma.com

About Your Host:

Vanessa is a seasoned Movement Therapist with a vast array of skills and experiences in the industry. Her goal is to help as many people find betterment in their lives. She is known as an expert generalist, attaining high levels of education, and delivering a quality experience in both group fitness and personal training streams. Attaining betterment drives her knowledge and pursuit for further education for herself and everyone she encounters. Vanessa continues training clients and trainers all over the country and presenting at the International Fitness Conference. Vanessa’s ethos is doing things BETTER.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this engaging conversation, Vanessa and Gee Tual delve into the multifaceted world of movement therapy, emphasizing a holistic approach to fitness, the importance of manual therapy, and adapting training to individual needs. They explore the benefits of Animal Flow, highlighting its unique quadrupedal movements that enhance coordination, cognitive development, and mindfulness. The discussion also covers the role of personal trainers in addressing client variability, including factors like stress and hydration, while fostering overall well-being. Vanessa and Gee underline the importance of education in the fitness industry, encouraging trainers to empower clients through diverse and personalized movement practices.

You’ll learn about:

• How movement therapy combines various techniques to enhance physical and mental well-being.
• The crucial role that manual therapy plays in addressing movement issues.
• How consistency in training is important, but adapting training and flexibility to individual client needs is essential for success.
• How a holistic approach to fitness and mindfulness in movement can enhance physical and mental health..
• Animal Flow’s unique benefits for movement and coordination.

Our favourite quotable moments:

"Animal flow is like meditation for me." - Vanessa

"How do you get better at something your bad at? You do more of it." - Gee

"Movement is a tool for bettering ourselves." - Gee

Resources:

In Sydney? Train with Vanessa in person!

Get in touch/Join my mailing list: Website or Instagram.

About your guest:

French-born Guillaume TUAL, also known as ‘Gee’, is a Gold Coast-based Movement Therapist and PT who specialises in rehabilitation, movement coaching and snow sports conditioning. A former professional basketball player and teacher, he founded Peak Movement in 2010 to help his clients move away from pain, live and ski better with a holistic approach to training and injury rehabilitation. Gee is also an Animal Flow Master Instructor, a Barefoot Rehab Specialist, a mentor for Fitness Professionals and Personalised Health Coach.

website: www.peakmovement.com.au

Instagram: Peak_Movement_Aus

Facebook: Peak Movement

About Your Host:

Vanessa is a seasoned Movement Therapist with a vast array of skills and experiences in the industry. Her goal is to help as many people find betterment in their lives. She is known as an expert generalist, attaining high levels of education, and delivering a quality experience in both group fitness and personal training streams. Attaining betterment drives her knowledge and pursuit for further education for herself and everyone she encounters. Vanessa continues training clients and trainers all over the country and presenting at the International Fitness Conference. Vanessa’s ethos is doing things BETTER.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.