Freedom of Movement

Movement is Life.

Movement is about the dynamic nature of our very existence. It symbolizes the constant flux and change that characterizes life itself, both on a macroscopic and microscopic level. It signifies growth, adaptation, and evolution, reflecting the ever-changing journey of human experience. Whether it's the subtle sway of a tree in the wind or the graceful movement of a dancer on stage, movement embodies the essence of vitality and liveliness, reminding us that stagnation is antithetical to life.

Just as water can become stagnant and lifeless, so too does a person that remains static for too long, become stagnant and inflexible in body and mind.

Movement has been shown to stimulate neurogenesis, the process of generating new neurons improving cognitive function. When we move, we activate our physiological systems, promoting circulation, flexibility, and strength. Movement can serve as a form of expression and creativity. All of this can help individuals to understand and respond to the actions, emotions, intentions, and perspectives of others and connection to the world around us.

As I reflect on my recent journey to Norway, I find myself drawn to the profound experiences that have left an indelible mark on my understanding of freedom of movement and the human spirit. Our first visit was to the Nobel Peace Museum in Oslo was a deeply moving experience. As I walked through the exhibits highlighting the efforts of individuals and organizations to promote peace and resolve conflicts. I would highly recommend a visit if you are in Oslo and think this is something that should be in all cities.

We then took a 2 hour boat trip to see the Fjords which dropped us right by the KonTiki Museum. As we entered I was immediately drawn to Tor Heyerdahl’s famous quote

"I see no borders, but I believe they exist in the minds of some people."

Heyerdahl's daring expeditions, first on the Kon-Tiki raft in 1947, across the Pacific Ocean, from Peru to Polynesia, challenged conventional notions of boundaries and demonstrated the inherent human desire for exploration and connection. This was an amazing to see with my Dad who followed the adventures of Thor and built his own model Kon Tike when he was a young boy.

Hererdahl’s life philosophy revolved around the idea of cultural diffusion and human migration. He believed that ancient civilizations were more interconnected than commonly thought, and he sought to prove this through his building his own rafts, research and setting sail. His belief was that the sea was not a barrier, proving that throughout history, people have ventured far and wide and culutres have always moved. Thor Heyerdahl devoted his life to working for global peace and enviromental concservation.

Right next to the Kon Tiki is The Fram Museum, the legendary polar exploration ship used by Norwegiens, Fridtjof Nansen and Roald Amundsen. In this exhibition we could board the Fram itself and look in and around the ship. On deck there were projectors making it feel like to the whole boat was rocking in a storm. The projectors then emulated the boat becoming fixed into the ice, the sound of slow creaking of the ice, as the crew endured 18 months entrapped, puposely, in the ice.

Nansen's expedition to the Arctic, where he learned from the Inuit people and adapted their survival techniques, was a testament to the power of cross-cultural exchange and collaboration. His openness to learning from others, regardless of cultural or geographical boundaries, was a major factor in his success in reaching the South Pole. Fridtjof Nansen leaves a humanitarian legacy, (UNHCR Nansen Refugee Award), and was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize, for his commitment to alleviating the suffering of others, promoting peace and reconciliation, and advocating for the rights and dignity of all people, regardless of their circumstances.

In a world where borders are often seen as barriers and differences are perceived as threats, their journeys remind us that freedom of movement is not just about physical travel, but also about breaking down the barriers that divide us and embracing the richness of diversity, connecting our humanness.

Movement opens opportunities for different perspectives and encourages tolerance, acceptance, and appreciation for diversity, while learning from history and context informs efforts to address root causes of conflicts.

In essence, movement as the nature of our very existence, invites us to embrace the inherent dynamism of the human experience. It reminds us that movement is not just a means to an end but a fundamental expression of our vitality, creativity, and potential. By cultivating a mindset of openness, curiosity, and engagement with the world around us, we can harness the transformative power of movement to live more fully, vibrantly, and authentically.