the august movement.
Hey hi hello,
I hope you’re well!
This time around the word is movement. Sometimes as an adult beginning to try a new movement can be perceived as scary. Physically, it may feel like something that should have been practiced earlier on, therefore it is now terrifying to think of. Although, someone not too long ago suggested to me that perhaps that mind set is based on the thought of what it was like to learn something new as a child, when we are still developing our motor skills and coordination. With that in mind we should be able to pick up certain activities with a bit more ease, right? It will obviously take practice and understanding of the activity that you choose, nevertheless, the world is your oyster dude.
Mentally, it may take you one, or two attempts to start feeling comfortable attending the activity, but that’s all it is. Perhaps even bring along a friend will help, if not, repeated exposure to the activity will do just fine.
Not too long ago, I spoke about beginning yoga on the podcast, and it’s been a bit over nine months since the first time I took a class. The first few times, as explained, were difficult. I didn’t know anyone or what to do; the first time I didn’t even have my own mat. However, even on that first class, I knew it was something that I wanted to do again and again. I was more than willing to jump over my social anxiety to attend the class and reap the benefits of what was no offer. It definitely took the repeated attendance in order to learn to let go and becoming present was practiced and I ended up really enjoying it, taking away a refreshed mind each session. From that point forward, the benefits cascaded into all other avenues of life. The reminder that thoughts are merely occurrences that are formed to flow, not stay stagnant aided every day, just as the power of breath supported my lifting in the gym, which in turn dominoed to so many other facets of my life as well.
Yoga might not be your thing, and weightlifting might not be either, but any form of movement is a step in the right direction. It allows you to be present and focus on the here and now. Keeping physically active not only maintains your physical health but also creates a ripple effect that benefits your mental well-being.
And yes, movement does release those feel-good hormones (hello, endorphins!) while lowering stress hormones like cortisol. It’s a natural way to boost your self-esteem, improve blood flow, and enjoy a wide range of other benefits. These include reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression, better sleep, enhanced cell regeneration, and genuine sense of control and accomplishment.
So, whatever gets you moving, embrace it. Your mind and body will thankyou!
yours truly,
