5 Ways to Make Movement Work for You
Let’s face it, a lot of people have a love/hate relationship with movement and exercise. But, it does not have to be that way. Here are 5 tips to make movement work for you and keep you moving throughout your life!
Choose Movements You Enjoy
Movement does not have to be a chore that you add to your life. Instead, movement can be something that you look forward to and enjoy. Don’t feel like you have to go to the gym or sign up for a 5k run because that is what everyone else does. Movement can come in many forms; Hiking, gardening, dancing, climbing, swimming, surfing…the list goes on! If you choose movements you enjoy, you are more likely to stick to a consistent exercise routine.
Know That All Movement Counts
Similar to the first point, movement does not have to be something structured that you do. Taking the stairs instead of the elevator, parking further from a store, running errands, dancing in your living room with friends, cleaning, all these things count as movement! Adding more movement throughout your day, regardless of the type and form can keep you moving and active!
Understand Your Bodies Needs Will Change Daily
Depending on many different factors, bodies will feel different from day to day. The amount of sleep we get, how much we have eaten, and how stressed and busy we feel, are all things that can impact how our body feels. Understanding that your body may be craving different types of movement depending on what else is going on in your life can be an important lesson. There is no need to feel guilty if all your body is feeling up for is a gentle stretch or quick walk instead of a more intense form of exercise.
Use Consistency not Motivation
As noted above, bodies can feel different on any given day. That is why it is essential to understand that you may not be motivated to exercise. You cannot rely on your body and mind to always be ready and willing to add movement to your daily life. However, if you have a movement practice you do consistently, regardless of how motivated you feel, you are more likely to stick to some form of activity and movement daily. This does not mean you push through feeling tired or injured, but it does mean you can do a 10-minute walk instead of a 30-minute run or some gentle movement over a gym workout.
Understand the Atmosphere You Enjoy Moving In
Some people love structured classes where they do not have to think about what they are doing. Other people enjoy the creativity of planning their own exercises. Some people love moving in groups, while others prefer moving alone. There is no right or wrong way to enjoy movement and exercise. Find the way that works best and makes moving fun!
There you have it, my 5 ways for making movement work for you!