Movement AS MEdicine
Hey Friend, Let’s Talk About Moving Your Body
Okay, hear me out—movement isn’t just about working out or trying to “burn calories.” It’s not about punishing yourself for what you ate or forcing yourself to do something you hate. It’s about feeling good, getting stronger, and taking care of yourself in a way that actually makes you happy.
Trust me, I’ve been there—caught up in all the “you should be doing this” fitness trends, feeling guilty if I didn’t show up for a workout. But I’ve learned something along the way: movement isn’t about perfection, it’s about connection. And I want that for you too.
What’s Your Relationship with Movement?
Quick question: When you think about moving your body, what comes to mind? Is it fun memories of running around as a kid, or does it feel like just another chore on your to-do list?
For a lot of us, movement starts as play when we’re young. Remember hide-and-seek, riding bikes, or dancing around your room? But somewhere along the way, it can turn into punishment. Burn this, change that—it’s exhausting, right?
Here’s the thing: Movement can be whatever you want it to be. Dancing in your kitchen? Totally counts. Walking your dog? Yep. Stretching on the floor while binge-watching Netflix? Heck yes.
Movement: Not a Punishment, But Nourishment
Let’s flip the script. Movement shouldn’t be about guilt or “fixing” yourself. It should be about feeling good and taking care of your body. Here’s how I look at it:
It’s a way to feel strong and capable.
It helps with flexibility and mobility (hello, fewer aches and pains).
It’s about honoring what your body needs, not what the world tells you to do.
Some days, you’ll crush a high-intensity workout. Other days, a slow walk or gentle yoga is all you need. Both are valid, and both are wins.
How Movement Can Shift Your Mood
Here’s a cool thing I’ve learned: Movement doesn’t just change your body; it changes your mood. It’s all about your nervous system:
Feeling frazzled or overwhelmed? Do something gentle—stretching, yoga, or even lying on the floor and breathing. It helps your body chill out.
Feeling low-energy or blah? Crank up some music and dance, or go for a jog. Anything that gets your heart pumping can give you a boost.
Your body and mind are connected in so many ways, and movement can help you shift from “meh” to “okay, I’ve got this.”
Variety is Key (and Keeps Things Fun!)
Listen, your body doesn’t want the same thing every day. Some days you’ll feel like lifting weights; other days, a nature walk might sound perfect. Mixing it up keeps things interesting and helps you avoid burnout.
Here are a few ideas:
Yoga: Great for flexibility and stress relief.
Dancing: Turn up the music and let loose—it’s like a mini therapy session.
Walking: The OG of movement. It’s simple, effective, and you can do it anywhere.
Swimming: If you have access to a pool, it’s an amazing full-body workout.
Weight Lifting: Don’t let it intimidate you—building strength feels awesome.
And if one day you just want to roll around on the floor? Go for it.
Tips to Get Started
I know, starting something new can feel like a lot, but it doesn’t have to be complicated. Here’s how to make it easier:
Prep the night before: Lay out your clothes, pack your water bottle, and set a time to move.
Start small: Five minutes is better than nothing. Seriously, just start.
Make it fun: Do what you love, not what someone else says you “should” do.
Be kind to yourself: Some days will be harder than others, and that’s okay. Just show up.
You Deserve to Feel Good
At the end of the day, movement isn’t about looking a certain way or meeting someone else’s expectations. It’s about YOU—feeling good in your body, building strength, and taking time to care for yourself.
So, what’s one thing you can do today? A stretch? A walk? A dance party? Whatever it is, make it something that feels good and makes you smile.
You’ve got this, bestie. Let’s move, not because we have to, but because we get to. 💛