Healing Notes from Adam
The research around the mental health benefits of physical activity just keep accumulating and we are now seeing a more nuanced analysis of how certain kinds of training can benefit people.
Strength and mobility training in particular are getting more attention in regards to how they can build resilience and assist us in enjoying full embodied lives into our later years. These activities reduce stress, anxiety, and depression while boosting self confidence, improving cognitive function, and enhancing overall mood through endorphin release. There is additional evidence that the discipline required builds mental resilience and a sense of accomplishment, powerful tools for well being.
When I first met Adam I remember him saying that there are many heavy things in the world so “why not pick up something heavy that you can actually put down?” I loved the idea of visualizing our burdens in the form of a kettlebell or dumbbell and then putting it down. Adam approaches training from a place of practical wisdom. It is not about weight loss or appearance although those benefits may come but about being able to engage in activity without restriction, being able to pick up your groceries and carry them up a flight of stairs, playing with your grandchildren, or being able to lift yourself up off the ground after a fall.
Adam offers a unique approach to fitness, focusing on barefoot training, structural balance, symmetry, full range of motion, and ability based goals. He makes training fun and accessible. Adam offers services at his home gym in outer SE Portland, OR or online direct to you anywhere you are.
I am honored to share Adam’s thoughts on his healing modality and his self nurturing strategies:
What mind/body wisdom can you share from your field of work or passion for engaged living?
Proprioception has been a healing force in my life. The energy I absorb from my surroundings and the pressure I put into the terrain guide my movements. Before I was a successful full time home studio owner, personal trainer and coach, I was severely injured twice (ACL full tear and full meniscus tear). As a result, I've turned my healing journey into a thriving barefoot training practice. Now, I help people on their healing journey. I specialize in knee, shoulder, back, hip and ankles through the lens of calisthenics, strength and athletics. I offer small group training and even all-income levels online programming so that everyone in the world can have access to my world-class services. I'm also proudly affiliated with the ATG / Knees Over Toes movement, which has healed tens of thousands all over the world, including the world's most premier athletes. Join me for a one of a kind "strength from the ground up" personal training experience and check me out on instagram @noeasyfeetgym
What are your favorite healing modalities?
Movement! Feeling structurally balanced and symmetrically able in foot pressure, hip loading, spinal rotation and full body strength. Advanced hip, spine and shoulder mobility. I love guiding my community members through exercises that integrate full range of motion, strength ability and athleticism.
What are your experiences with psychology/psychotherapy?
My experiences with therapy have taught me invaluable skills such as Internal Family Systems, breath and body awareness, separation of self from circumstance and more. These skills help me both inside and outside of my professional work.
How do you nourish yourself?
I nourish myself by implementing self care best practices into my daily and weekly life. For me, these practices include: daily sauna, meditation, cold plunge, meal prep, positive self talk and mental resilience through programmed physical challenges.