“Let’s get physical, physical, I wanna get physical physical”
Whenever I say the word physical, I want to break into song! Lucky for you, this is a blog post and not a sound post. This song is a funny and vivid reminder though of spandex, tights and Jane Fonda workouts (clearly this reference applies to the over 30’s) but it always makes me giggle and literally want to do the skipping movement from those aerobics videos.
As someone who’s overweight at the moment, that’s probably a good motivator and every movement counts. I read a book by scientist Michelle Segar called No Sweat (highly recommend if you struggle with moving your body) and I loved the simpleness of her ‘every movement counts’ phrase so I’ve adopted it and use it in my practice. It’s one of those simple yet extremely effective phrases that you can tell yourself and share with others. There’s little room to question it and quite literally works. If you live a sedentary lifestyle, then doing ANY movement WILL count. Even if you are physical and for whatever reason can’t make it to your usual workout, just by thinking about this phrase, it may inspire you to get off a stop earlier, walk instead of take the car/bus/cab etc. It inspires you to add in movement of any kind. It’s brilliant.
What’s most important about being physical every single day is that you do it. Not that you have to do it at a competitive level, just that you do it and here’s 10 reasons why:
- Brain Power – Being physical each day not only exercises your outer body but also your brain which will help to increase creativity and productivity.
- Self-Esteem Rises – When you look after yourself, you will in turn feel good about yourself.
- Sleep Patterns – You’ll sleep better and you’ll recognise that you need to switch off that Netflix binge-fest and take your bum to bed! You’ll also find it easier to wake up without the snooze button.
- Bones & Muscles – They stay supple and stronger. After 30, your body starts slowing down, so it’s imperative to keep our bodies in good shape to help us get through each day let alone anything else more strenuous.
- Metabolism and Food Management – You regulate your metabolism so absorb and process nutrients better and because you’re active everyday, you’ll automatically make better food choices – why undo all the good you’ve done with a donut? Although sometimes you can earn the donut if you plan well 😉
- ImprovesMood – An important one for mum’s! I am so cranky since becoming a mum. Sleep deprivation is the main culprit but also lack of activity. When you move more, you release those gorgeous happy hormones that help you be happy.
- Gets You Mindful – When you do anything physical even just a short 10 minute walk, you’ll quickly lose your thoughts and get yourself into a mindful state of just being in that moment. This allows so much great stuff in including creativity, problem solving and relaxation.
- Sexy Time – You’ll want it more and it COUNTS as movement. Any excuse right? Sex is not just physical either, orgasms give us additional happy hormones to enjoy.
“Every movement counts.”
If you liked this post, then sign up to Coach &GO for weekly coaching tips, insights, news, offers and ask me anything days – here’s the link.