Body Positivity Through Exercise

One of the best ways to feel good about your body is to move it.  Research shows that people who exercise have a better body image and body confidence than people who don't.  That makes perfect sense because when we move the body we get out of the judging, observing, jumping monkey mind.  Getting the blood pumping and increasing the oxygen feels good.  If there is a specific workout or class to participate in, then simply completely the class fuels us with accomplishment alongside all of those endorphins.  Reminding ourselves how good it feels to accomplish something like a workout is all it takes to go back for more.

Nowadays there are so many versions of activity, fitness or exercise.  Everything from classic group fitness classes in a club setting to getting steps in around the house--it all counts because it all adds up.  These activities can be done with others or privately.  There are endless options online with youtube and apps.  Who would have thought that spin class could actually be done at home on the peloton bike?  That brainchild came from a new dad who wanted to go to spin class but was at home with a newborn.  He's biking all the way to the bank.

Physical exercise that you enjoy can be a hobby like tennis or pickleball or zumba class.  It can also be a social outlet.  Or, at the other extreme, it can be a solitary activity creating a break from people and their issues.  No matter how you view it, physical activity is required to be a whole and healthy person.  You have a body.  The body wants to move.  Don't let the mind talk your body out of doing something good even if you are tired.  That's the irony.  Even if you are tired, a little bit of energetic movement will actually create more energy.  It's counterintuitive, but it's true. 

You are not your body, but it matters.  Treating it right with healthy food is key.  Most weight loss comes from food choices.  But up to 20% of weight loss can come from exercise.  That's a boost for the body and the mind and the body confidence. 

Your mind is stronger than your body, so this week, let your mind talk you into doing something healthy for your body.  See what it does for you.  See how it makes you feel.  Just do something more than you have lately so you can feel positive, confident and capable. 

Because you are!