Movement & Mental Health

We all know that consistent movement is an important health factor. In particular, it allows us to age gracefully by helping to keep our bodies functioning well for as long as possible. But maintaining our physical abilities benefits not just our physical health. It also benefits our mental health. Losing mobility can keep us from participating in social activities, which can lead to feelings of loneliness and depression. It can also lead to feelings of anxiety when we feel we can no longer trust our own bodies.

So what can we do about this? Well the most obvious solution is to just keep moving but that can be easier said than done. It is very common to spend a large part of day stuck in front of a screen. And when we are dealing with kids, spouses, school, second jobs, run amuck politicians, and everything else, exercise can begin to feel like a chore; and a not an overly important one.

Now there is no easy fix to feeling like exercise is a chore. And to make the claim that exercise should be prioritized over everything else feels ridiculous (I know, I’m not supposed to say that as a trainer). But keeping ourselves moving is important and necessary, so finding the right motivation is key.

In my experience there are two reasons that motivate us to move. One is that we love the movement and the experience that goes with it. For example, when I was a full time professional dancer I loved going into the studio everyday to take class. Because a. dancing is fun and b. dancing with friends is more fun. When I retired it took me awhile to find the motivation to move, because in my mind, nothing was like dance. I had to learn to get past this and find appreciation for other types of movement.

The second reason is that we actually have a reason. But not just any reason. A particular reason that will motivate us to set an attainable goal. For example, when I was still dancing there were performances or auditions to prepare for that served as motivators. After I retired I had to find other motivators, new reasons. Knowing I should keep moving for my health was not enough. I had to give myself something to prepare for that truly mattered to me.

This type of reason is incredibly personal and could be anything. Maybe you have a big party/event to attend that you want to look and feel good at. Maybe you want to take a trip with friends/family and not have to skip activities. Or maybe you want to be able to protest wannabe authoritarian regimes to protect your human rights. Like I said, the reason could be anything and as long as it motivates you it’s a good reason. So pick your reason, pick your movement, and keep going. You will feel better both physically and mentally.

Want to try out a functional mobility session at ShadowOfaDancer?