You've Got to Move It, Move It…

"It is health that is real wealth and not pieces of gold and silver."

Mahatma Gandhi

A couple weeks ago, when I was so sick and barely able to get out of bed, I thought "What I need to do is start running again." And in my delirium, I signed up for a half-marathon. It just sounded so very healthy!

Weeks later, I am up and running…

…and wondering what came over me in my moment of weakness. Seriously.

As synchronicity would have it, I happened upon some magazine pages* I ripped out years ago…like before-I-had-kids-years-ago. And the reason I kept these pages? Read on…

When we go through changes or upheavals, I know, you know, and all the experts seem to agree, the best thing we can do is MOVE IT, MOVE IT. I could belabor how our brains actually crave physical activity, especially during times of stress, BUT we know that, yes? What we really need is some hardcore motivation. The information in the artilce was that for me when I first read it. Find yourself somewhere here, connect with it, and let your journey begin!

Pink Yoga Mat

If you feel overwhelmed by a life change, your long "TO DO" list, OR a project so big that doubt is hovering, try: distance running, yoga, Pilates, or hiking. Why? When you need to believe that you can accomplish a goal, these activities build your confidence by PROVING you really are capable of anything. And once you have this feeling, it transcends outside of the gym and into your life. Seems like a fair trade, right?

If a relationship has crumbled, your self worth is sinking, or you are afraid of getting hurt, try: Rock climbing, surfing, skiing, or weight training. Why? When you master a challenging activity, you improve your self image. And strengthening your muscles increases your mental fortitude. Once you accomplish a skill, you realize anyone can do it by ditching their fear, and JUST DOING IT!

If people are demanding too much from you, stress greets you around every corner, or you feel anxious most of the time, try: Boot camp, dance class, kickboxing, or circuit training. Why? When you concentrate on an activity, it distracts you from worry and stress. Aerobic activity actually downshifts your brain from a high to low anxiety gear. And the feeling of exhaustion when you are done leaves little room for anxiety to pester you.

If someone has taken your ideas, you feel overly frustrated, or anger is your first response in many situations, try: Swimming, spinning, walking, rowing. Why? These activities don't require much mental activity so you can zone out — they are predictable so you fall into a pattern at a pace that forces you to breathe deeply. By the time you are done, you generally feel more calm and zen-like.

When it comes to exercise, there is no road map. And we know, one size does not necessarily fit all. The key is to remember our bodies will help us during moments of doubt, stress, and fear if we point them in the right direction and USE THEM. So make today your day…and get started!

*Health Magazine