Built to Move
Photo by Polina Tankilevitch - from Pexels
The human body was built for movement. When children don’t move enough they often feel restless and irritable. Adults may feel the same, or they may have low energy and even feel depressed. Movement helps keep your body healthy in a variety of ways - your muscles and bones stay strong, your fascia stays flexible, it even physically changes your brain.
Unfortunately, it has become increasingly difficult to get enough movement day to day. We sit when we work, eat, drive, study, watch TV, and relax. On top of that the less you move, the less you want to. So how can we overcome these barriers and start moving?
Steps to STart Exercising
Start by focusing on why you want to start moving. Imagine being able to move the way you want - maybe you’re going for a run in the park, playing sports, practicing yoga, or walking your dog. Imagine how it would feel and what benefits you may notice. This can help you uncover why it is important to you to start moving more.
Know what you’re working toward. Set a goal for 3 or 6 months out. Something that you know you won’t be able to realistically maintain right now. This may be running a 5K race. Going to the gym 3 days per week consistently, or walking for 30 minutes every morning. Having a longer term goal with a firm goal date can help you to get started.
Be realistic. How can you get started with small steps to move more every day? Maybe this starts with taking small breaks at work to walk down the hall to chat with a coworker or refill your water bottle. Maybe you take a 10-15 minute walk after lunch or dinner. Maybe you’re not quite ready to actually start moving, but you are ready to research different yoga studios or exercise classes in your area. Anything that gets you a little closer to making a change in your lifestyle is beneficial.
If you’re having a hard time getting started with movement, book a free consult today to see if health coaching may help you meet your goals!