Walking from Uncertainty to Discovery

Research shows that moving differently creates new neurological pathways that free up the brain to think differently - an essential ingredient for innovation and new solutions. Moving in non-habitual ways requires the brain to be used in non-habitual ways which then leads to novel thinking. (That's why improv theater groups use movement warm-ups - to get out of habitual thought patterns). It can also illuminate metaphorical states of being quickly and experientially.

Afterward, participants report that discovery feels the most free, most alive and the most comfortable - and they could be more effective and creative in that state of being. In going about our days, we can develop a new relationship with the unknown. By consciously choosing to transform that which we do not know into a discovery process, we can more easily move through the fear of not knowing amidst the uncertainty around us.

I created a workshop activity called The Awareness Walk which has many variations and dimensions. In it, participants walk and nonverbally interact in myriad ways, each one designed to have them experience the conceptual framework of a certain state of being. For example, they are asked to walk around and engage from a place of certainty, a place where they know the answers. Without exception, inevitably chests pop up, walks become linear and directed, bodies straighten up, eyes focus ahead, etc. Not too much interaction as people move around the room in a rapid, straightforward pace. Focus, yes. Newness, no.

Then they are asked to walk form uncertainty, a place where they do not know the answers. Bodies shrink, movement slows or stops altogether, eyes dart around or look down. Almost no interaction. There is a feeling in the room of fear, trepidation and judgement as they look like deers frozen in the headlights. The energy is stagnant. Neither focus nor newness surfaces.

Finally, they are asked to transform that uncertainty into discovery. They are told they still do not know the answers - still in the unknown - however, they now experience it from a state of discovery. Suddenly, the entire energy of the room shifts and awakens: they look about thoughtfully, they are fluid in their movement, they explore their surroundings with all of their senses, they are content, alert, curious and present. They look at each other. Movement goes back and forth from linear to non-linear as they keep moving ahead. There is a sense of content ease and a feeling of openness. Newness is possible.