When was the last time you felt truly energised, both mentally and physically?
For many, the answer lies not in a quick fix but in the sustainable habits we build that fuel our healthier, happier life. Movement, much like sleep, is an essential cornerstone of our well being. It’s not just about exercise, it’s about creating the habits that help our bodies thrive, our minds relax, and make our days more fulfilling.
In this article, we’ll explore how movement can change our life, why it’s critical to our overall health and well being, and of course we’ll give you some tips on how you can develop some lasting habits that will help make movement a natural part of your routine!
Let’s dive in!
Why Movement Is Essential
Movement is more than exercise – it’s life in motion. From supporting physical health to boosting emotional well being, movement lays the groundwork for our vitality. Here’s why it matters:
- Strengthens your body: Improves cardiovascular health, strengthens muscles, and enhances flexibility.
- Boosts mental health: Releases endorphins, reducing stress, anxiety, and depression.
- Prevents chronic disease: Lowers the risk of heart disease, diabetes, and other health conditions.
- Enhances brain function: Improves memory, focus, and cognitive performance.
- Improves sleep: Promotes deeper, restorative rest by regulating your body’s circadian rhythm.
Movement is not optional for a healthy and long life, it’s the foundation.
Movement and Sleep: 2 Best friends
Good sleep and regular movement work together like yin and yang. Movement stimulates your body, making it stronger and more resilient, while sleep repairs and rejuvenates it. Here’s how they interact:
- Movement supports better sleep: Regular physical activity helps you fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer.
- Sleep enhances recovery: Quality sleep repairs muscles and reduces soreness, ensuring you’re ready for your next movement session.
By integrating movement into your daily routine, you not only improve your sleep but also amplify the benefits of your active lifestyle.
Make Movement a Habit
Creating a movement habit doesn’t mean overhauling your life overnight. Instead, think about making small, consistent changes that lead to the big results. Here’s how:
1. Start Small, Think Big
Begin with achievable goals. Even a 5-minute walk or a few stretches can build momentum. As these small steps become part of your routine, gradually increase intensity or duration. Create a streak! Compile up those days and of course celebrate your wins for showing up.
2. Schedule Movement Like an Appointment
This is one of my favourites. Prioritise movement by adding it to your calendar. Whether it’s a morning walk, a lunchtime stretch, or an evening session, treat it as a commitment to yourself.
It’s one of the most important meetings of your day.
3. Find Your Joy
Movement should be enjoyable, not a chore. Experiment with programs until you find what lights you up! Happy movement is sustainable movement and sustainable movement is where you see your results.
4. Stack It with Existing Habits
Pair movement with something you already do. Stretch while your coffee brews, take a walk during phone calls, or do a quick workout before your shower. This habit stacking approach makes movement feel natural.
5. Move with Others
Accountability and fun go hand in hand when you involve others. Join a class, recruit a friend, or make family activities more active. A shared commitment makes it easier to stay consistent.
6. Mix It Up
Variety keeps things exciting and challenges your body in different ways. Alternate between cardio, strength training, flexibility exercises, and recreational activities to avoid boredom and keep progressing.
7. Track Your Progress
Use a journal or an app to track your movement. Recording your efforts not only keeps you motivated but also helps you identify patterns and areas for improvement.
8. Reward Yourself
Celebrate your successes, no matter how small. Treat yourself to something you enjoy, like a relaxing bath, a favourite meal, or new workout gear.
Positive reinforcement strengthens habits.
Building a Balanced Routine
A holistic movement routine incorporates:
- Cardio: Activities like walking, running, or cycling to boost heart health.
- Strength: Bodyweight exercises or resistance training to build muscle and bone density.
- Flexibility and Mobility: Yoga or stretching to maintain joint health and prevent injury.
- Recovery: Rest days and active recovery sessions to allow your body to repair and recharge.
Find a balance that fits your goals, preferences, and lifestyle.
Take the First Step Today
Building the habit of movement starts with a single step (literally). Begin with small, sustainable actions, and watch how they transform your energy, mood, and overall health. Pair movement with quality sleep, and you’ll create a powerful foundation for a stronger, happier you.
If you want to read our last article on sleep you can do so HERE
Do you need help with creating your new habit of movement? We got you. We walk hand in hand with you through each of these steps. The only thing you need to do is walk through our doors, and we’ll do the rest.
Book your No Sweat Intro today and take the first step toward a stronger, happier you.
