What's Happening?
Following Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy, individuals generally have the flexibility to engage in exercise, according to guidance from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and the EMDR International Association. There
is no universal restriction against physical activity such as walking, running, going to the gym, or practicing yoga after a session. The key determinant for post-EMDR exercise is how an individual feels. Some may experience fatigue and prefer rest or lighter activities like gentle stretching, while others may feel normal and capable of their usual workout routine. The Veterans Affairs guidance specifically notes that new information processing can continue between sessions, allowing individuals to generally resume their normal daily lives. Exercise is not considered to stop EMDR processing, nor is it a required component to enhance the therapy's effectiveness. The decision to exercise should be based on personal energy levels, concentration, and comfort.
Why It's Important?
This guidance is significant for individuals undergoing EMDR therapy, particularly those dealing with trauma or other psychological distress, as it provides clarity and reduces potential anxiety about post-session activities. By affirming that exercise is generally permissible and beneficial if one feels up to it, it empowers patients to maintain their regular routines and promotes a sense of normalcy. This flexibility can be crucial for mental well-being, as physical activity is known to reduce stress and improve mood. The clarification that exercise does not interfere with the therapeutic process is vital, preventing patients from unnecessarily restricting their movements or feeling guilty about engaging in physical activity. It also highlights a patient-centered approach to recovery, emphasizing individual needs and feelings over rigid, universal rules, which can be particularly important in trauma-informed care.
What's Next?
As EMDR therapy continues to gain recognition and wider application, particularly in areas like veteran care, clear and flexible post-session guidelines will remain essential. Future developments may include more personalized recommendations based on individual patient profiles and the nature of their therapeutic work. Therapists may increasingly incorporate discussions about post-session activities, including exercise, into their treatment plans to better prepare patients. The ongoing research into the neurobiological effects of EMDR and exercise could further refine these recommendations, potentially identifying specific types or intensities of exercise that are most beneficial or contraindicated for certain individuals. Additionally, the rise of self-guided and online EMDR platforms will necessitate continued emphasis on self-assessment and flexible routines for users.
Beyond the Headlines
The discussion around exercise after EMDR therapy touches upon the broader integration of physical and mental health. It underscores the understanding that mental health recovery is not solely confined to therapeutic sessions but extends into daily life activities. The emphasis on listening to one's body and making choices based on personal comfort reflects a holistic approach to well-being, where self-care and self-awareness are paramount. This perspective can help destigmatize mental health treatment by normalizing the continuation of daily routines, including exercise, during therapy. It also highlights the evolving nature of therapeutic practices, moving towards more adaptable and less restrictive protocols that acknowledge the complexities of human experience and recovery. The principle of individual choice in post-therapy activities can foster greater patient autonomy and engagement in their healing journey.
