GLOW Body Blog

Fit, Mindful, Nourished.

How to get more out of your exercise

Do you know what these words have in common?

distinct... individual... special... exclusive... extraordinary

They are all about YOU. Your UNIQUENESS. Honoring that through clean eating choices is key. Critical.

Yet, it is just as critical to honor your uniqueness through movement and exercise. One size never fits all. 

Oh, tension. Bring on the tightness, aches, pain, and even constipation (which undoubtedly causes a bit of tension all its own). Good times! Kind of an unavoidable phenomenon if you are alive. It can absolutely escalate and dominate if we don't deal with it. And so... enter exercise. Your gift for movement, a strong and healthy body, and your personal tension buster. In short... a lifesaver.

Now, back to this unique thing. You have to find exercise that you enjoy or guess what? Exactly. You won't stick with it. So...

A little hypnotic regression. What did you love to do as a kid? Did you ride a bike? Swim? Dance? This is a good place to start if you are looking for a new exercise routine (plus it's fun to travel down memory lane).

Listen to your body. Movement is a lot like food. Once you understand how different types of movement nourish your body, you can literally create a menu of activities to keep you balanced and connected.

Some women tell me that although they try workout routines, they end up feeling unfocused and unmotivated. This is because they haven't found their niche YET. If you can relate, try something upbeat like a dance class, a brisk walk with your favorite music, or a type of movement that is new for you and offered at a local gym.

Are you a people person? Need that social element? Grab a friend to work out; join a class at a gym that is near your home, pleasant, welcoming... Round up some neighbors for a power walk or hike. It's fun to have likeminded people around you. You keep each other motivated, accountable, and laughing.

Need alone time? Purchase a small trampoline and/or a set of hand weights. You can even subscribe to an online meditation or yoga class. And there are always DVDs...

If you are constantly tense and tight, consider gentle movement like yoga, Pilates, or swimming.  All deliver a meaningful workout in addition to increasing lightness and flexibility.

Some of us are morning people. Our clarity is sharp and ready as the rising sun. Others peak at the end of a day — work is over and the time to let loose and energize is upon us. Honor your best time of day.  There's no right or wrong.

Don't be afraid to play. Experimenting is half the fun. It will lead you to a routine that you can nourish your body with on a daily basis. And that... is truly extraordinary!