EP 8. Ancestral Movement & Ecological Embodiment; The Land Shapes Us with Simon Thakur
Mar 30, 2025
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Simon Thakur, creator of Ancestral Movement, blends evolutionary biology and traditional practices to help people reconnect with nature. He discusses how modern life disconnects us from our innate movements and the wisdom of our ancestors. The conversation highlights the importance of embodiment, such as mindfulness and yoga, as tools for deeper personal awareness. Thakur also delves into the interconnectedness of humans and animals, emphasizing empathy and understanding through nature. His insights challenge us to rethink our relationship with the environment.
Human disconnection from nature adversely impacts well-being and ecological relationships, necessitating a rewilding process rooted in ancestral practices.
Ancestral movement reconnects individuals with their evolutionary history through physicality, enhancing awareness of internal states and the environment.
Integrating technology into rewilding efforts fosters community and knowledge-sharing, bridging modernity with deeper ecological connections and practices.
Deep dives
Understanding Our Disconnection from Nature
Humans historically lived in close symbiosis with the earth, rooted in lifestyles shaped by land-based hunter-gatherer practices that fostered a deep understanding of ecological systems. In stark contrast, contemporary society often feels disconnected, leading to detrimental effects on both human well-being and the environment. This disconnection reflects a shift away from our wild origins and diminishes our ability to relate sustainably to the natural world. Addressing this disconnect calls for an active rewilding process that reconnects individuals with the principles of ecology and regenerative practices.
The Role of Ancestral Movement
Ancestral movement emphasizes the importance of reconnecting with our physicality through movement patterns that reflect our evolutionary history. This concept was popularized by practitioners exploring movement and awareness rooted in the ancient practices of various cultures. Through ancestral movement, individuals can tap into a primal understanding of their bodies, enhancing their physical skills while fostering a deeper awareness of their internal states and environment. The practice draws on techniques such as strength training, yoga, and martial arts, which help cultivate a sense of agency and connection to one’s bodily experience.
Harnessing Technology for Connection
Even as many yearn to return to simpler ways of living, integrating technology and modern practices into rewilding efforts can create a bridge for deeper connections to ecology. An online community platform is being developed to facilitate monthly workshops and resources aimed at cultivating land-based ecological knowledge. This platform offers an innovative space where individuals can learn, share experiences, and connect with others who are similarly interested in rewilding. By leveraging technology, individuals can foster relationships with nature while simultaneously engaging in meaningful interactions online.
The Importance of Sensitivity in Movement Practices
Training the body for sensitivity is vital for fostering genuine connections with the natural world and oneself. Practices such as yoga, breathwork, and movement routines can enhance interoception, allowing individuals to better understand and respond to their emotional and physical states. As people become more aware of their own sensations, they also develop a heightened ability to perceive the feelings and experiences of others. This training can create a balance between sensitivity to one's environment and the ability to maintain emotional boundaries amidst the challenges of modern life.
Learning from Indigenous Practices
Indigenous cultures often blend practical skills with spiritual practices, emphasizing the interconnectedness of life, nature, and learning through experience. The podcast highlights how traditional hunting practices exemplify a focused sensitivity that enables individuals to engage deeply with the environment while carrying respect for the life being taken. Such practices showcase the balance between reverence and practicality, illustrating how cultures have historically navigated the complexities of managing their ecological footprint. This approach can inspire modern practices that honor the past while seeking sustainable futures.
Humans have come a long way sincethe beginning of our evolutionary journey. We have adapted through manydifferent landscapes which all play a part in how our body/mind/brains functiontoday. Simon Thakur has dedicated his life to understanding this ancestraljourney on a very deep level.
Creator of Ancestral Movement, a framework & philosophy influenced by various Traditional movement practises, Simons academic work within evolutionary biology, body work modalities & the landscape.
Simon has delved deep into our ancient origins prehuman & beyond, deep into the early stages of our evolutionary journey & created practises around accessing the innate intelligence within us all. In a world that is so disconnected from natural movement, true embodiment & the animal body, this conversation gives us some thought provoking insights into the potential of the body & mind when in relationship with the landscape. A fascinating take on rewilding the senses, the body & the mind.
