Another thing that has been taken over by marketing- the fitness world. There are so many different fitness theories, schedules, intensities, etc in order to obtain the perfectly toned but not too skinny, muscular but not too bulky, curvy but too big, perfect definition of fitness that is just not realistic for most people.
I was a big believer in high intensity, dripping sweat workouts. I thought the more sore I was, the better results I would get. I ended up injuring my shoulder and was forced to redefine my idea of exercise, and I didn’t even do that until I absolutely had to. I pushed myself and thought I could somehow heal my injury with more workouts and no rest?
I started doing low impact workouts which is how I found yoga, and I grew to love it. I still incorporate yoga into my daily movement. Yoga eventually led me to Pilates, which I also just love doing.
One of the main reasons I love these workouts is that you don’t need anything. You can use your own bodyweight and still have a really great workout. There are some props you can use to intensify them like a pilates ball, block, or light weights, but you can even use things around the house like a pillow for a ball, a book for a block, or soup cans or water bottles for light weights. Use what you have and start where you are. Create the consistency and take the small steps towards big changes.
One thing that is really important to remember about moving your body is not only moving it every day, but moving it consistently throughout the day. It’s better for your health to get up and move or stretch several times throughout the day for 5-10 minutes than to do one really intense hour and a half workout and then sit at a desk all day or watch tv.
For me, I know moving my body makes me feel better. it also makes me show up in a much more positive way for myself, my son and everyone around me. That’s why I choose to make it a priority for me every day. Especially on the days when I don’t feel like it. Showing up for yourself consistently is one the of best ways to create positive change.
I am constantly changing how and when I workout. Especially after having a baby. I not only lost a lot of muscle, but my schedule is a lot different, and I can’t always move when I want to. I am much more patient with myself and my progress.
If something doesn’t feel good, I don’t do it. However, I also try to make myself do something on days where I just don’t want to. It’s all about balance and consistency – which also includes fueling yourself in a healthy and nourishing way. That’s how you’ll see results.
Moving your body is another example of slowing down and listening to what your body needs. Some days you may feel like you want to or are able to lift heavier weights or work out for a longer time. Some days you may just want to stretch on the floor for a few minutes or go for a walk and give yourself more of an active rest.
Our bodies and needs are in a constant state of change, and when you realize that and work with it instead of against it, things become a lot easier. And I always always always feel better after I move my body – especially when I was resisting it.
One of my favorite platforms that I use for workouts is Melissa Wood Health It is all low impact but has a huge variety of pilates, yoga, strength and meditations. She also has the most contagious and positive energy that make her platform that much more enjoyable to use.
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