February is upon us, and for many……we’ve already abandoned our New Year’s Resolution to exercise more. But how about this? Instead of exercise….think movement!
Exercise was a concept to address the negative consequences of our modern, sedentary lifestyles. What it really does is to separate people into “exercisers” or “non-exercisers” rather than all people being considered “movers.” Take out a piece of paper and write down what you think of as exercise on one side of the sheet of paper. On the other side of the paper, write down what constitutes movement. Being active doesn’t need to be tedious or something you “have to do.” It can include fun ways to reconnect with your body!
What we want to do is reframe movement vs. exercise and increase your enjoyment of physical activity. It really results in a mindset shift: This understanding that movement can be fun, joyful and that ALL movement counts! Humans were designed for movement and in fact movement is essential not only for physical wellbeing, but for improved mental health.
We should strive to “move” in some way every day. And just like our diet should be varied, so should your movement. Repetitive movements can lead to muscle imbalances and possibly overuse injuries. So even if you are moving using structured activities like running, stair climbing, weightlifting or spinning, you should vary your choice of exercises.
Not all movement is created equal, although movement shouldn’t be defined as good or bad. Walking ranks supreme in terms of ease, equipment, opportunity and connection. But your movement selection depends on your physical ability, preferences and goals. I love to turn on music and dance!
Movement is an opportunity for self expression. It provides a ton of physical, emotional, and mental benefits. Aim for 30-minutes daily and “just move it, move it!”
The average weight gain between Thanksgiving and New Year’s is not the seven to ten pounds that many people believe it is, but actually closer to one pound. The problem though, is that most people don’t usually lose this one pound once they’ve gained it. And over the course of time, this can add up to an ever increasing weight problem. But fear not, weight fighters! With just a few strategies, you can avoid holiday weight gain while still enjoying friends, family and the holiday celebrations!
Edit your choices. Deprivation can fuel desire. So instead of dwelling on all the holiday treats you shouldn’t have, edit your choices. (Drop the word diet and rearrange those letters to spell edit.) Editing what you want means making small changes to your choices. Eat one cookie instead of three. Plan a healthy, satisfying lunch so you aren’t tempted by break room treats in your office. Decide what to eat less of, more of or what to cut, but take it day by day so controlling what you eat is more manageable.