People’s relationships with exercise often brings up a variety of complex emotions. From being made fun of in elementary gym class to being encouraged as adults to participate in home exercise videos, society’s message comes across loud and clear. “Exercise is good for us”, but at what point can our response to this message become harmful? 

If you find yourself participating in movement that you do not enjoy primarily to manipulate your body’s shape or size, then the result will likely not be sustainable. Many times, it will leave you feeling defeated, ashamed, and possibly even result in physical injury. 

So, what is the alternative? 

Joyful Movement!

Joyful movement is what it sounds like- Movement that brings you joy! This means that you will begin to pay attention to your feelings about exercise and value those feelings. The emphasis will be taken away from burning calories, and instead put toward moving your body in a way that feels fun to you. 

Some examples could be: hiking, kayaking, team sports, trampoline, cycling, walks, dancing, etc…

The key is that if you don’t enjoy it.. pick something else!

Here are some questions to ask yourself to find out if your movement if joyful: 

• What outcome do I want? (Do you want to play with your dog without feeling exhausted afterward?) 

• Have I adequately met my other needs today? (Food, water, rest)

• Do I feel good while doing this activity? (Am I having fun?, do I look forward to doing this again?)

• If you knew this exercise would not change your body, would you still do it?

Conclusion

Life is too short to do exercise you don’t enjoy. Movement is about connection to your body, pleasure, and fun. Consider ditching that workout routine you dread doing and replace it with one you find to be fun! Your physical and emotional health will improve. Soon you’ll leave that dreadful exercise in the past and find yourself looking forward to joyful movement! 

Acacia Collaborative Psychological Services takes a holistic approach to therapy that prioritizes both mind & body. Use our contact page to reach out today.

About The Author:

Adrienne Hayes is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who provides assessment and counseling services to individuals ranging from early adolescence through adulthood, including EMDR therapy. Adrienne graduated from The University of Alabama with a Bachelor’s degree in Human Development and Family Studies with a focus in Family Studies. She followed up on her undergraduate training and received a Master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy before becoming fully licensed.

Adrienne has worked in a variety of settings including private counseling, residential treatment and outpatient care. Adrienne works with individuals and couples who present with a wide range of issues. She works to help individuals identify and resolve underlying issues contributing to anxiety, depression, low self-esteem and unhealthy relationship patterns.