How I learned to appreciate movement rather than viewing it as a chore

My Journey to Embracing Movement

For years, I approached exercise like many of us do: as a chore. I’d drag myself to the gym, counting down the minutes until my workout was over. The thought of lacing up my sneakers often felt more like a punishment than a privilege, especially in the depths of cold winter mornings or when I felt overwhelmed by the weight of daily responsibilities. Can you relate?

But over time, I learned something transformative: movement isn’t merely a means to an end. It can be a source of joy, exploration, and self-discovery. It’s a lesson I believe every woman deserves to experience, especially in a world that often emphasizes extremes and quick fixes in wellness. So, how did I make this shift? Let me share my journey with you.

Recognizing the Roots of My Resistance

One of the first steps in my journey was recognizing why I viewed movement negatively. Like many women, I had been influenced by societal pressures: skinny models on magazine covers, fitness influencers promoting intense workout regimens, and the idea that if I wasn’t sweating profusely, I wasn’t doing enough. I felt trapped in a cycle where physical activity equated to punishment—a way to atone for indulging in dessert or skipping a workout.

What I came to realize is that this mindset didn’t foster a healthy relationship with my body. Instead, it fostered resistance. I had to confront the fact that I was equating movement with obligation rather than liberation. So, I began to explore where this mentality came from and how it could shift.

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Shifting the Narrative

Understanding that I could rewrite my narrative around movement was pivotal. This shift began with reframing my thoughts. Instead of viewing movement as something I had to do to achieve a certain look, I started to think of it as a gift I was giving myself. It became less about the “shoulds” and more about the “wants.” What did I enjoy? What felt good? The focus transitioned from results to experience.

In this process, I experimented with different forms of movement. I attended dance classes, went hiking, and even tried yoga. The key was to seek activities that brought me joy rather than dread. I fell in love with the rhythm of dancing and the tranquility of being outdoors. These were not just workouts; they were moments where I felt alive and connected to my body.

Finding Freedom in Movement

As I began to explore various activities, I discovered that movement can be a form of expression. It became a way to release stress, particularly during busy weeks when life felt overwhelming. There’s something liberating about moving your body to music or feeling the earth beneath your feet while hiking. It’s a powerful reminder that we are not just bodies to be sculpted; we are souls to be nourished.

Creating a Ritual

Eventually, I started to integrate movement into my daily routine as a form of self-care rather than a chore. I carved out time in my day, even if it was just 15 minutes, to engage in something that felt good. This could mean a brisk walk around my neighborhood, a few stretches, or dancing in my living room. The emphasis was on consistency rather than intensity, and finding joy rather than exhaustion.

Some weeks, I felt energetic and ready to dive into a challenging yoga class. Other weeks, I simply needed a gentle walk. This flexibility allowed me to tune into my body’s needs without judgment. It was a huge step away from the rigid expectations I had placed on myself. And like any ritual, this practice of movement became something I looked forward to, serving as a grounding presence amidst the chaos of my busy life.

Embracing the Process

Another realization along the way was that appreciating movement means embracing the process rather than fixating solely on outcomes. The benefits of movement extend far beyond physical appearance; they encompass mental and emotional well-being too. Have you noticed how a brief walk can shift your mood? Or how a dance session can ignite a spark of joy within you? This is where the true magic lies—movement can be a conduit for happiness and resilience.

Listening to My Body, Not Just My Mind

Now, don’t get me wrong—I still have days when I feel unmotivated, days when I’d rather curl up with a book than hit the gym. But I’ve learned to approach those days with compassion. Instead of punishing myself for skipping a workout, I ask what my body truly needs. Would a gentle stretch feel better than an intense session? Would a walk with a friend uplift my spirit more than a solo workout? This approach fosters a deeper connection to my body and its needs, rather than a checklist of what I “should” be doing.

Celebrating Small Wins

Finally, I’ve come to appreciate the small victories that come with consistent movement. It’s not always about achieving lofty fitness goals; it’s about the little moments that add up over time. Whether it’s feeling stronger, experiencing less stress, or simply enjoying a moment of peace during my stroll, these wins remind me that progress doesn’t have to be extreme to be meaningful.

Embracing Your Unique Journey

As women, we often find ourselves juggling multiple roles and expectations. With the pressures of life and the media’s portrayal of “ideal” bodies, it’s easy to slip back into that old mindset of viewing movement as a chore. However, I encourage you to embrace your unique journey toward movement. Take the time to explore what feels good for you, and allow that exploration to shape your relationship with movement.

Remember, it’s not about perfect workouts or an ideal physique; it’s about how you feel. Celebrate the small moments, be kind to yourself on the less motivated days, and most importantly, find joy in moving your body. We are all on a path of progress, and every step—no matter how small—is a step worth taking.

So, here’s to embracing movement as a celebration, a ritual, and a source of empowerment. Let’s continue to support one another on this journey, focusing on nourishing our bodies and spirits rather than conforming to unrealistic expectations. You are capable, you are beautiful, and every move you make matters.