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Our relationship with movement can be complicated, but it doesn’t have to be! This became a really important topic for me as a teenager when my relationship with movement drastically changed.
I’m curious – what comes up for you when you think about movement? Do you first think about:
- other’s opinions or judgements of you
- how boring or difficult it will be
- or when you’ll fit it into your busy schedule
We often associate exercise with how it will make us look, but the benefits of movement expand so much further to improving our overall quality of life, both physical and mental.
5 ways to add more fun & pleasure to your movement:
1. Release all expectations around what movement has to be or look like
If walking on the treadmill or stairclimber for 45 minutes doesn’t light you up don’t do it!
The main movement that matters is the kind you will do! Movement is energy and energy is life. The more that you are in motion, the more you are living life to its fullest!
2. Revisit activities that brought you joy as a kid and begin there
What relationship did you have with movement when you were young? For many of us, those childhood activities were filled with joy. How can you infuse more of that into your life as an adult?
3. Add music and dance as an option
These two beautifully benefit both the physical and mental body.
Music activates so many pleasure centers in the brain and dance improves your timing, coordination, and rhythm.
They are also great for helping us process and release emotional stressors that are building up in our body without our awareness! #DanceEmbodimentMethod
Plus, whether solo or with loved ones, dance parties will have you laughing and sweating in no time!
4. Create a movement menu
This goes a level deeper than a sheet of paper with various movement ideas for when you’re lacking inspiration. Instead it focuses on finding types of movement that pair well with different emotions/energies you experience frequently.
This allows you to toss excuses and show up for yourself consistently no matter how much energy or time you have.
Remember number #1. Release expectations and allow each day to look different.
Creating your menu:
- Split a piece of paper in half.
- On the left hand side of your page, list the main emotions/energies you’ve experienced most in the last 90-days.
- On the other side, write down the kinds of movement you’d be willing to explore when you are in that state of mind.
For lower energy days think movement such as walks, restorative yoga, tai chi, breath work.
For higher energy days think movement such as jump roping, dance, running, boxing, bike, etc.
This kind of list will help you practice discipline over rigidity so that you’re showing up for yourself each and every day!
5. Start with 10-minutes of non-negotiable movement a day
This helps you reduce the overwhelm and resistance to begin. Some days this will look like child’s pose next to your bed before sleep, while other days you’re game for higher intensity.
Watch the full live for the juicy details of each and to see me dodging the light 😂💃🏽✨
For help customizing your movement menu and daily accountability to show up for yourself, head here to take the pledge and join the community!
Always rooting for you,
Samantha