A Casual Approach to Fitness
Hello, friends of fitness! Go grab your favorite cup of coffee (if you are more comfortable with tea or matcha latte then please do), and let’s talk about something I’ve been thinking about lately… life the way we know it. It’s a phrase we often hear, but what does it really mean for fitness? Take a seat, I promise this isn’t a fitness sermon!
Understanding Life as We Know It
To me, life the way we know it is more than a clever phrase; it’s about celebrating our ups and downs within our own lives and how we can incorporate fitness into the fabric of that life. Life is full of unexpected twists and turns! I remember running and tripped over a dog’s leash (why Mrs. Jenkins, why?)! That is the fun of life, right? Adapting, overcoming and moving forward!
Let’s be real: fitness cannot be isolated to programs or fad diets. Fitness is a continuation of our lives, it is intersecting with life. So, let’s find how we can integrate wellness into our lives that make sense and is intentional.
Finding Your Groove
Alright, let’s get personal. I can still remember the very first time I looked to make a change not only to my health, but to my overall lifestyle and fitness. I didn’t know what I was doing at all. It was awkward! I was awkward! I didn’t even know how to really lift weights properly. I sometimes I felt like the awkward worker in an episode of “The Office”, everyone around looked confident and effortlessly sculpted. I was just walking on a treadmill day dreaming about pizza!
Fast forward a few years, and I eventually found a few things that put me on a path for success:
- Listen to Your Body : It may seem simple, but so many of us continually ignore the best rule of them all. Listen to your body, it gives you signs. Fatigue, soreness, cravings, the works. Listen to your signals, because they are your body’s way of communicating with you.
- Try Different Things : The world of fitness is too wide and are no two people the same! There is no “one-size-fits-all” rule that governs physical activity! Maybe an exercise class like yoga could help – looking for something different? Dance classes? A hike? You don’t know what could get you to feel that passion of moving your body. For myself, it’s been cycling! Who knew I was going to enjoy rolling around town so much?
- Set Realistic Goals: Focus on improvement, not perfection. For example, instead of declaring, “I want to run a marathon next month,” say, “I will add a 5-minute jog to my daily walks this week.” Celebrate those little victories, they add up faster than you think!
Mind Over Matter
Let’s not forget the very real importance of mental wellness during our journey. The body is influenced by the mind and vice versa. On days when I feel down, I can sometimes imagine just crawling under a blanket and hibernating with my favorite snacks (oh, popcorn!). I have learned that just a little quick workout or a short walk outdoors can help turn a spirit of despair into one of elation.
Just noticing and practicing mindfulness, even for a few minutes a day can be significant. Take a minute or two out of your day to jot some things down in a journal, meditate, or just breathe deeply. These small practices can help keep the mental noise down so you can connect with your peace while getting back into your fitness practice. I will often jot down my thoughts to keep myself accountable to my feelings or goals.
Community Matters
As we make fitness a routine part of our lives, it’s essential to remember that community matters. Whether it’s joining your local fitness centre, attending group classes, or connecting with friends on social media, there is immense value in surrounding yourself with positivity and empowering energy. Not only can we share our experiences, but we can also be appreciated, celebrated, or simply have community workout buddies that take fitness from an isolating experience into an adventure.
The Real Takeaway
With all that said, life as we know it, is not about having a perfect workout plan, expectation, or regime. It’s about making experiences, having connections, and taking little wins along the way. It’s about growing to love the person you are, quirks and all, while working toward a healthier version of you.
So, the next time you hear “life as we know it,” remind yourself that this is your experience with laughter, sweat, and a few lapses, so let’s embrace it! One grounding workout, one meal at a time, one quote ground sign, one shared smile.. all while developing purpose!
Until next time, keep sweating, keep smiling, and celebrate every success whether small or big!
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