“Movement Mindset”
We all know that there are many health benefits to exercise if we actually do it. The problem is good intentions are just that unless we actually begin and ‘get moving’.
Some of us can just decide and then action naturally follows. To all the go-getters out there, more power to ya. Go get it, girl!
Others need some help to decide, and an encouraging nudge to get started.
If you’re a planner like me, you will take time to consider all the options, write about it, create a plan, and add it to where it fits into the calendar before you ever lace up your sneakers, or roll out the yoga mat.
The problem is by the time we plan out our schedule, figure out when we can squeeze exercise in on which days and times, decide which exercises we want to do, line up the babysitters, and join the gym or sign up for an online exercise group, our motivation often fizzles out.
I’ve learned from my own mistakes. So, I’ve ditched my old unhealthy habits and continually added new healthier habits to my daily routine. And you can too!
Oh, it certainly didn’t happen overnight, but it is now happening. And I’m all the better for it. So, take my advice… decide first, and act right away! You can adjust your plan as you go.
Too many times I spent days working out the details of when, how, and what I’d be doing to get fit, only to find myself still tired, frustrated, and disappointed in myself for never having started.
It takes a lot for this type A, self-admitted planner to say. But after enough failures, I have learned.
That’s not to say you shouldn’t have a plan. I still subscribe to the idea of, ‘you plan to succeed and without a plan, you will surely fail’. Just be open to making changes as you learn and discover what you prefer to do. Remember, action is the first crucial step.
Something is better than nothing. It’s crucial to begin as soon as the desire strikes. Just get moving! The instant satisfaction, self-pride, and mood boost will keep you going. Then, the more you move, the more motivated you’ll get to do more and possibly try new activities.
Motivation comes after you begin.
With that in mind, I wanted to share a “Get Moving Menu.” Choose your favorite, pick a few, or try them all. Whatever you choose, you are at least moving. You are telling your brain, “This is necessary. This is important to me. I’m on my way towards a healthier version of myself.”
I could go on and on. The point is just do something! Do what’s fun. Do whatever you enjoy. That is the key. You need the fun factor. If you don’t enjoy working out in front of people, then don’t set a goal to join a gym and go four times a week. You’ll find every excuse not to get there. I’ve been there, or should I say, I didn’t go there.
The best exercise for you is the one you enjoy.
I love lifting weights, walking, boxing, and doing yoga. But as the story goes, life got in the way, and I fell out of my routine. I lacked motivation, and as much as I talked about it, I didn’t act. Until I realized the action had to happen first.
I started playing. I walked slowly with my daughter, walked the dog, and did some easy yoga when I felt stressed. The more I moved, the more I wanted to move.
I fell in love with yoga! The physical benefits are amazing. It reminded me of all those years as a dancer. Every muscle gets toned, lengthened, and strengthened. And… the mental and emotional aspects of yoga were exactly what I needed.
In fact, I’m currently in the process of a terrific Yoga Instructor Training course! I’m loving it and look forward to it every time I practice.
Now it’s your turn. Try all the things. Have fun. Be adventurous. Discover what makes you feel great inside, as well as outside.
Self-care is not selfish, it’s necessary!
Take care of You!
Gina
