I recently heard someone say something to the effect of, “When you move your body, your life also moves.” That really struck me as powerful. When we’ve been neglecting exercise and self-care, we often make excuses as to why we can’t get to it today: we’re too busy or tired or whatever. Yet, the more sedentary we are, the more tired and achy we feel. As a result, our lives often feel stuck as well.
“Take care of your body. It’s the one place you have to live.”
Jim Rohn
When we make the decision for self-care, it is an indication we are ready and willing to say yes to ourselves, yes to taking advantage of opportunities that come our way, and yes to wonderful new adventures. As we move and exercise, we allow our energy to flow freely, clearing out the stuck, negative energy and transforming it to more physical energy, focus, and creativity. It helps boost our mood and helps us be better able to handle what comes our way. We don’t need to know every step before we take the first one. Just focus on having fun, the rest will fall into place.
“Going to the gym is great for your body, but it’s also great for your mind.”
Rory McIlroy
When we get out of the routine of regular self-care, it’s hard to get motivated to start back. Or, if it’s never made it to the top of the priority list, that needs to change today. When we say no to putting ourselves last, we say no to the pessimistic thoughts that have been running rampant, draining our energy, and dimming our enthusiasm, and no to the unhealthy patterns that weigh on us emotionally and literally physically.
And prioritizing exercise is not about looking a certain way; it’s about taking care of our body and being healthier, rather than being skinnier. Just because someone is skinny doesn’t mean they are healthy.
As we take even just 10 or 15 minutes each day to move our bodies consciously and joyfully, we are making the space for creating movement and joy in our lives.
“Look in the mirror. That’s your competition.”
John Assaraf
The Weekly Post 