By: Ashley Blum
Jen Aks is an embodiment coach, author and founder of The Power of Gesture, a practice centered on what she calls “bodyset.” This is the idea that the body plays a critical role in how we process emotions, make decisions and navigate stress. Rather than focusing solely on mindset, Aks encourages individuals to tune into their physical sensations as a way of better understanding their emotional state. Her work draws on the concept of “kinetic intelligence,” or the body’s natural ability to communicate information that the mind may overlook.
As the semester enters its final stretch, the pressure is beginning to mount for many students. Here at Hofstra, midterms have just concluded and finals are fast approaching. Balancing academic responsibilities alongside leadership roles, jobs and extracurricular commitments can be overwhelming. Which is why it has become increasingly important to develop effective strategies for managing stress. While everyone copes in different ways, exploring new approaches can offer valuable perspectives. WRHU Morning Wake-Up Call producer Ashley Blum sat down with Jen Aks to discuss how connecting with our physical sensations can help us better understand and regulate our emotions, while also expressing the importance of taking a moment to pause and reflect on the difficult emotions in our lives.
Through simple, intentional gestures, Aks teaches people how to regulate their emotions and respond to everyday challenges. Her approach is especially relevant in high-pressure environments, where stress can feel overwhelming and hard to manage. She emphasizes that by reconnecting with the body, individuals can develop greater clarity, confidence and emotional resilience. All of which are skills that she thinks are increasingly important for students who balance demanding schedules and responsibilities.
Contributor: Antonio Schoenhardt
