Reconnect. Rediscover. Rejoice in Movement.
When you hear the word “exercise,” what feelings come up for you?
Excitement? Dread? Guilt?
For many of us, moving our bodies has been tied to ideas of punishment—working off a big meal, changing how we look, or making up for “bad” choices. No wonder it can feel heavy, overwhelming, or even a little painful.
But it doesn’t have to be this way. Movement can be a celebration, not a chore. It can be a way to feel more alive, more connected, and more joyful. The key is learning how to move your body in ways that feel good, not like punishment.
Let’s explore how to shift your relationship with movement into something that truly supports your well-being.
1. Focus on How It Feels, Not How It Looks
Our culture often focuses on the appearance-related outcomes of exercise—weight loss, muscle tone, fitting into smaller clothes. But when we only look for visible results, we miss the real gifts movement gives us:
- A clearer mind
- A lighter mood
- More energy
- Better sleep
- A sense of strength and empowerment
When you choose movement based on how it makes you feel—calm, strong, energized—you start to view it as a gift to yourself, not a task on a to-do list.
Ask yourself: How do I want to feel after I move today?
Let that answer guide your choices.
2. Find Your Joyful Movement
There’s no “right” way to move your body. If you don’t love the gym, you’re not alone—and you don’t have to force yourself to be there.
Movement can be anything that gets your body engaged:
- Dancing in your kitchen
- Taking a walk around the block
- Stretching with a gentle yoga video
- Playing tag with your kids or grandkids
- Hiking in nature
- Swimming, gardening, or even cleaning to your favorite upbeat music
If it brings you joy, if you lose track of time doing it—that’s your kind of movement. It doesn’t have to be structured or intense to count.
3. Give Yourself Permission to Move Differently Every Day
Some days you might crave a brisk walk. Other days, all your body wants is some light stretching or gentle breathing exercises. That’s not laziness—that’s wisdom.
Listen to your body.
Give yourself permission to choose a different type of movement depending on how you’re feeling physically, mentally, and emotionally. Honoring your body’s needs builds trust—and that trust helps you stay consistent over time.
Remember, consistency doesn’t mean doing the same thing every day. It means checking in with yourself and moving in the way you need most that day.
4. Ditch the “No Pain, No Gain” Mentality
You’ve probably heard the phrase “no pain, no gain.” And while it’s true that building strength sometimes means pushing a little, exercise should never feel like punishment.
Pain is your body’s way of saying, “Hey, something’s not right.”
Discomfort that comes from effort (like breathing harder during a walk) is normal. But sharp pain, dizziness, or feeling emotionally drained afterward are not signs of a healthy relationship with movement.
Respect your limits. Progress happens when we nurture our bodies, not when we beat them up.
5. Celebrate What Your Body Can Do
Instead of focusing on what you can’t do (yet), celebrate what you can:
- Maybe you can walk for 10 minutes without stopping.
- Maybe you can lift your arms higher than you could last week.
- Maybe you can breathe more deeply and fully during a stretching session.
Every small step deserves celebration. Your body is strong and wise. It’s doing incredible things every day—even on the days that feel slow or gentle.
6. Create an Environment That Inspires You
Sometimes the hardest part of moving is simply getting started. Creating an environment that lifts your spirit can help.
- Make a playlist of songs that energize you.
- Wear clothes you feel good in.
- Move in a space that feels welcoming—whether it’s outdoors, in your living room, or at a favorite park.
- Invite a friend to join you if community inspires you.
Setting the stage can turn movement into a time you actually look forward to.
Final Thoughts
Movement isn’t a punishment for the food you ate or the shape of your body. It’s a celebration of all the amazing things your body can do. It’s a way to show yourself care, love, and respect.
By choosing ways to move that feel good, you’re building a sustainable, joyful relationship with your body—one that will support your health and happiness for years to come.
So, today, instead of asking, “What workout should I do?”
Ask yourself, “How can I move my body in a way that feels good today?”
Your body—and your heart—will thank you.
Suzanne Horrocks 