Tag: Exercise

Embracing Movement

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This winter has been mild and full of sunny days. With the break in weather comes fresh breezes, green things budding early, and the ability to get outside and sit in the sun. The weather has provided ample opportunity for getting out of doors and getting active, which has really pressed fast forward towards spring. The promise of spring – even here in the depths of winter can inspire new beginnings and ideas. The freshness of the days, the openness has encouraged me to embrace movement. 

Instead of hibernation and rest, I am feeling called to activate and explore. I am not fixating on the cold or feeling the cramp of tense muscles. I am relaxed, I am going to yoga and moving. As Newton’s Laws of Motion teach us, “An object in motion stays in motion.” Therefore my only offering today is to simply get up and move. You don’t need to move mountains or set some new record. All we have to do is start and let momentum carry us forward. We deserve to feel the pleasure of coasting downhill and the only way to get there is to first walk uphill. Even a small step forward can give us all the encouragement we need to glide ahead. 

This isn’t an exercise blog – there are plenty of amazing resources for that! But I would encourage you to nourish your whole self. Mind, body, and spirit work together to support one another and keep us strong. Take care of your whole self and start wherever you feel most ready. Embrace movement and start with whatever is easiest – because complexity is not the point. The point is to begin. 

What do you do for fun that keeps you active? Are there winter sports you prefer or are you a summer activity person?

Pouring from an Empty Cup

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When life feels hectic and as if the momentum to move forward is not surging as we would like. Or if at times it feels as if I am rushing while the world itself seems to be in slow motion. It reminds me that caring for myself is necessary – and warranted. That is why I take the following five simple steps to taking better care of myself.

Five Simple Ways to take better care of yourself. 

  1. Drink water – Dehydration is not only terrible for our skin and mood but it also can lead to ill health and lightheadedness. Taking time to be sure we’re drinking enough water and giving our bodies what they need is important.
  2. Focus internally – this can be done with meditation, yoga, or a few deep breaths. Whatever comes next will come, the only way we can meet challenges is by being and staying grounded in ourselves. 
  3. Get active – take a walk or do some light stretching. Any movement will do but getting into our bodies is the best way to know what we need next.
  4. Rest – It may be a quick nap, a break from calls so you can focus on a single task at a time, or maybe a day off. Recovery is the only way to heal and be fully healthful. Taking a break for rest is necessary and important.
  5. Be gentle – Whether we are dealing with someone else or ourselves, being kind and gentle makes us strong. We want to be the kindest person in the room – not the loudest. Therefore let that kindness begin at home and in your own head and heart.

What steps do you take to take better care of yourself? What gifts of love do you give yourself when you feel as if you’re wearing thin?