We all know that exercise has so many benefits for our body, our mind, and our spirit.
So why is it sometimes so hard to just do it?!
Here are some reasons why you might be struggling to make exercise a priority and ways to handle them.
Start Small
“You must give at least 110% or it is not worth it” – I have this problem sometimes. I call it my all or nothing attitude. It makes me think that if I’m not putting in maximum effort then, I’m not going to get any pay off. So why bother right? Wrong!
Just 10 or 20 mins every other day is better than nothing at all. Actually, over-exercising can cause as many if not more problems, especially if you are someone who is struggling with burnout, fatigue, or hormonal imbalances. If your schedule is already quite full, or maybe you are new to incorporating exercise, it is okay to start off with small amounts of exercise that you can manage and build from there. It does not have to be all or nothing.
Look After You!
You are busy with family, friends, work, kids, etc. But is everyone else a priority but you? Are you saying yes to everything and then not finding the time or energy to fit in activities that restore you? When over-committing is at the root of your lack of motivation to exercise, it might be time to chat with someone who can help you pinpoint what you are telling yourself about your own needs. Why are you struggling to put YOU first?
The reality is that when you run yourself into the ground doing everything for everyone else, you won’t have much to give. If you take care of your own needs first, you will have so much more energy to offer when you do decide where to invest it.
Unfortunately we all have limits to what we can manage and if you are loading yourself up to the degree that you can’t add in the things that will actually make you healthier and more productive then it is time to re-evaluate.
You Are Worth It!
Do you have a poor self-concept? If you struggle to see yourself as a valuable person with gifts to offer, you are less likely to partake in activities that will make you stronger and empower you. Maybe you take on too much responsibility for others because you are hiding behind low self esteem. Instead, see yourself as worthy of the effort and time that is a necessary step on the path to health.
Make Exercise Fun
Finding an activity that is enjoyable – It’s important that exercise be fun! When you think of exercise, you may get a visual of slogging yourself off to the gym and pounding out some weights. For some this is fun but for many, this is more of a chore or a duty. Find an activity that you enjoy, that gets you moving and that will help motivate you to go out and do it. If you think about the thing you want to try and it creates more stress in your body just thinking about it…then don’t do it! Pick something else, something that gets you excited. That way, you’ll be setting yourself up for success.
If you are struggling to make exercise a priority and need a little support don’t hesitate, contact us now and start your journey to a healthier you!
Dr. Kim Gowetor
Naturopath Sherwood Park
Naturopath Calgary
780-328-9088
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