Baseline of health and wellness
I’m sure it’s no surprise the physical need for rest, recovery and hydration are basic needs. Obtaining food and shelter are not extreme survival needs for most people (sadly, still an issue for a percentage of the population). I think moving our bodies IS a basic need for modern, healthy and joyful lifestyles. In my experience and studies, moving daily, adequate rest and hydration are the baseline needs for a healthy body, mind and life. With a baseline of health and wellness, we can branch out to other aspects of life.
To me, moving our bodies is the most important to focus on because it helps with everything else. Everything related to our bodies, mind, and health in every aspect is related to our whole being. BUT we can move our body and experience the benefits immediately. Frequency, daily and several times a day, is beneficial as well, structured workouts are not required. Moving our bodies does not need to cost money or need a structured heart rate, time or place. If a person is moving routinely and would like increased performance or results, of course increase intensity and or volume will be useful. BUT, when we are stressed, not sleeping well, not eating well, don't worrying about a workout or the right exercise routine, just move several times a day.
*When we move our bodies, we sleep better.
*When we move our bodies and sweat, we drink more (water hopefully).
*When we move our bodies, we notice how different food fuels us or drains us.
*When we move our bodies, our mood improves.
With better sleep, hydration, mood and any improvement or awareness in our eating habits - you can see positive affects spiral into life. When we get derailed with major life changes, we can feel so down and overwhelmed to make changes. This would be the exact time to move in a simple way. Ideas for simple moving:
-your own dance party, in your bathroom if you want it to be private and not worry about being seen or your emotions that are stirred. One song, shake and move your body!
-Say yes with exaggerated enthusiasm when you have to go downstairs or to the car for the umtheenth time to get the thing you keep forgetting - YES, I AM moving my body, it's good for me and I LOVE it!
-getting to the long over-due vacuuming, with aim to increase your heart rate.
-do 10 or 12 easy incline push-ups on your kitchen counter while waiting on food in the oven or microwave.
-getting motivated to get out of bed, rub your palms together vigorously, get up and lip sing your favorite line to any song.
-if you have mobility restrictions, move what is possible.
When time and access to group classes are possible, these are great for commitment to exercise and human connection. We can over train too, we can’t exercise our way to optimal health; there needs to be downtime. The baseline hierarchy of modern wellness includes rest and recovery. Quality nutrition is close by and a huge topic. Eating the best way for our bodies can take more time to figure out. But I think the basics are widely shared and agreed upon; less processed foods, more whole foods, and be mindful of sugar intake.
When in doubt, move your body! If you do high intensity workouts frequently, try moving gentle and easy for rest days.
Share your ideas and experiences with me anytime.
Exhale Completely,
JODEE
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