4 Healthy Components of Exercise

If you're someone who has lost their spark and joy with exercise, you're not alone. Many people struggle to find pleasure in movement because of negative experiences, social and cultural pressures, injury, illness, or using exercise as a coping mechanism in an eating disorder.

When it comes to exercise or movement, we often think about the physical benefits: bone health, muscle gain, cardiovascular health. But what about the mental and emotional benefits? What about the way exercise makes us feel?

If exercise is making us feel exhausted, confused, stressed, or pained, then it's time to re-evaluate our relationship with movement. Ask yourself if your exercise habits align with the four healthy components outlined below:

1. Rejuvenates the body, not exhausts or depletes it:
   
   We often think that we need to push ourselves to the limit in order for exercise "to count". But count for what? This type of thinking can actually be harmful to our bodies. Instead, aim for exercise that leaves you feeling energized, empowered, and refreshed. This could mean going for a walk in nature, doing gentle yoga, or trying a fun dance class.
   
   
2. Enhances the mind-body connection, does not confuse or disregulate it:
   
   Exercise can be a great way to connect with our bodies and become more attuned to our physical sensations. However, if we're constantly pushing ourselves to the point of pain, we may lose touch with our body's natural signals. Instead, aim for exercise that helps you feel more connected to your body. This could mean doing body scan meditations, working on positive self talk, or focusing on your breath during exercise.
   
   
3. Alleviates mental and physical stress, does not contribute to or exacerbate it:
   
   Exercise can be a great way to relieve stress and boost our mood. However, if we're pushing ourselves too hard or doing exercise that we don't enjoy, it can actually contribute to our stress levels. Instead, aim for exercise that feels enjoyable and nourishing to your body and mind. This could mean going for a swim, trying a restorative yoga class, or doing a gentle bike ride.
   
   
4. Provides genuine enjoyment and pleasure, not pain or punishment:
   
   Exercise should be something that we enjoy and look forward to, not something that we dread or punish ourselves with. If we're doing exercise that feels painful or punishing, it's time to re-evaluate why we're doing it. Instead, aim for exercise that brings you joy and pleasure. This could mean trying a new sport or activity that you've always been curious about, or simply dancing to your favorite music.

Exercise or movement that aligns with these four components is truly healthy - mentally, emotionally, and physically. By approaching exercise with curiosity, kindness, and compassion, we can redefine our relationship with movement to focus on joy and well-being rather than external pressures or expectations. So go ahead, try something new and see how exercise can truly nourish your body and soul.