The need to move our bodies has been gradually eroded from our modern lives and has been replaced with the modern concept of ‘exercise’. But, if we can incorporate regular movement into our daily lives, we will feel the profound benefits. Movement helps to reduce stress, helps to improve our mood and so much more. To reap the many benefits, movement doesn’t need to be difficult, it can be something you love already such as walking, dancing or even playing.
We know that people who are regularly active have structural and functional advantages in their brain which promotes resilience to stress and more sensitivity to joy.
We need a change in mindset in what movement is and why we do it. Then when we move we are more likely to experience something that connects us with it.
If you are stuck in an exercise rut, finding it hard to get started or sense you are ready to try something new, think about something that you already love and then think of an activity then allows you to do that.
Focus on who you are, what you enjoy, who and what you want to connect with, rather than the intensity and duration of the activity. Find ways to make it a part of how you live your life so it is not a chore, so it could be a part of your recreation or how you get from A to B, or how you connect with people in your life (the neurochemistry of movement helps us bond and connect with people).
Top tips:
So many people get an immediate benefit from moving outdoors. Try to spend time in a natural space you feel safe in can connect people to the psychological benefits of movement
View physical activity as a way to engage with life the way that you want to. Love how it feels when you have a walk in nature, or have dance parties in your living room with your kids, or when you run and feel and flow.
Use your body to engage with life to express different aspects of your personality, to connect with people and for pleasure. Experience something you can enjoy rather than as a punishment for something you ate!
Philosophy Corner - Take a walk
Seneca, a Roman Stoic philosopher, believed we should take frequent wandering walks, because constant work will fracture our minds.
Take some good walks and watch the dullness and feebleness depart. Enjoy the scenery, enjoy being away from your work. Make it part of your morning and evening routine.
Return with a stimulated mind that’s ready for the day’s challenges or relaxed from the busyness of your day.
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