For many of us, we have been told since we were young that exercise is important to keep your weight “in check” and to be “healthy.” For others, the expectation to look a certain way can be a force towards exercise, whether this is a healthy drive or not depends on the individual. Some people have poor relationships with their bodies or the gyms due to traumatic experiences as a child or as an adult, so they will forego exercise altogether because movement is not fun and does not feel good. All of these factors can lead to the avoidance of movement for many due to lack of interest, trauma or a sense of defeat because body statands are unattainable.
Moving doesn’t have to be triggering or painful if you find something that you like. Keep in mind that it doesn’t have to be conventional and it doesn’t have to be the same kind of exercise as your friends. I suggest trying different activities and seeing what you like: walking, pilates, yoga, online workouts at home, group fitness, hiking, rock climbing, cycling, gardening, playing at a playground, dancing, swimming, hula hooping, joining a sports league, and walking the mall are some ideas you can try. Our bodies were made to move. They want to move. Find a way to move that brings you joy. If you are still feeling apprehensive about fitness, here are some benefits of exercise that have nothing to do with the way you look and everything to do with the way you feel!
- Better Sleep: Movement during the day helps you sleep better for longer because your body is tired and needs to repair.
- Productivity: Once your body is used to moving you will feel more energetic after you work out so you will feel ready to take on tasks.
- Creativity: Exercise can help your creative juices flow more freely for up to two hours post workout.
- Benefits your brain: Movement prevents cognitive decline, assists in more effective problem solving and learning, boosts brain power and sharpens your memory. High intensity interval training (HIIT) has been shown to be especially good for your brain and can help prevent cognitive disorders later in life.
- Benefits your cardiovascular system: Movement helps your heart stay healthy and aids in optimal functioning levels.
- Better Mood: ”Exercise gives you endorphins. Endorphins make you happy. Happy people just don’t shoot their husbands, they just don’t.” -Legally Blonde.
- Manages depression and anxiety- Studies have shown that exercise is just as effective, if not more effective in the use of treatment for depression than antidepressant prescription medications.
So, get moving and start to see the many benefits of movement! It doesn’t matter what you do, just do something that you love and makes you feel happy. If you aren’t feeling a certain style of movement one day try something else. Keep things exciting so you want to keep going for the wonderful health benefits of moving the only body you have!
P.S. I will be filming some yoga and pilates videos that will be coming soon!
