Floortime: The Surprising Trend Sweeping Social Media
Josh Patner, a Brooklyn resident, has always found solace in lying on the floor. Growing up, he watched his mother escape the chatter of his grandmother by laying down in the kitchen, phone held away from her head. His father, a fan of floor naps himself, would retreat to a spot under the piano each evening. For Mr. Patner, floor time isn’t just about soothing his scoliosis – it’s a calming ritual he enjoys at home and with friends alike.
While Mr. Patner has long been a floor enthusiast, others are just now discovering the benefits of this practice. Social media platforms like TikTok are abuzz with posts tagged #floortime, with millions of views garnered. Take Lily Bishop, a graduate student from Chicago, who finds lying on the floor to be a grounding experience amidst the chaos of daily life. She describes it as a way to slow down anxious thoughts and be more present in the moment, no beach required.
Experts, like clinical psychologist Ellen Hendriksen, point out the calming effects of lying flat on the floor. Our bodies and moods align in this posture, fostering relaxation and peace of mind. Alan Fogel, a psychology professor, adds that the absence of restoration spaces in Western culture make floor time all the more essential for decompressing and being present in our bodies.
For Kara Lennon, an account executive and cycling instructor, floor time is like a brief respite in the sun. The practice has roots in centuries-old traditions, from yoga poses to Zen meditation, all emphasizing the value of connecting with the ground beneath us. And while floor time may not be suitable for everyone, those who find comfort in this practice can use it as a tool for relaxation and mental clarity.
To see if floor time is right for you, psychologists suggest turning inward and focusing on your breath during the practice. If it helps you feel more grounded and in control, it could be a valuable addition to your self-care routine. So next time you need a moment to reset and recharge, consider joining the growing trend of embracing the floor for a few minutes of peace and tranquility.
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