Move More, Live More

My Piece

I grew up in the 70s when physical activity was not valuable at all. Although I was a very active kid, I didn’t have the opportunity to engage in any particular physical activity. To stay active during my teens in Brazil, where school sports still are not a thing, I ended up just running around the block with a friend. Later in college, I tried swimming and enjoyed the peaceful feeling of it. However, it was only in my late thirties that I began exercising consistently. The good news is, that it’s never too late to start! The body has this incredible capacity to recover and adapt. Thus, let’s move more and live more!

Hectic Times

Life got hectic when I had my kids and when they were little. It was hard to juggle my job, house, kids, and personal interests for a good ten years. Although it was exhausting and somehow active, I cannot say physical activity was part of my routine back then. But once my kids were about 7 and 10, I decided it was time to take better care of myself. That was when I started running, biking, and practicing yoga. Finally, I was able to experience the joy of physical activity. Every raised heartbeat and accelerated breath made me feel truly alive.

Not an Obligation

Soon I realized exercise wasn’t a routine or a chore, it was my ticket to a longer, healthier, and undeniably happier life. Every time I pound my running shoes on the pavement or do a yoga flow, I wish I had started earlier. Still, I’m grateful I gave myself the chance to experience the transformative power of movement. Science reveals that regular exercise slows the aging process at the cellular level. More importantly, I know that movement keeps me spry and ready to take on whatever life throws my way. 

About Health

We all should view physical activity as an act of self-love and self-care. As a way to express gratitude to our organs, muscles, and bones. Cardiovascular workouts keep the heart strong and resilient, weight-bearing exercises fortify bones, and flexibility nurtured through stretching ensures harmonious functioning of all bodily systems. Sweating it out isn’t just about burning calories; it’s about improving blood circulation and therefore cell nourishment. Regular exercise bolsters immunity, making us less susceptible to illnesses. It’s not a matter of living longer; it’s about living stronger and more robustly. 

Happy Hormones

The post-exercise endorphin rush is a real daily mood booster for me. More so when I exercise outside and get the joint benefits of being in nature. Scientifically speaking, exercise is a potent catalyst for the release of endorphins, serotonin, and dopamine. The happiness hormone trio is responsible for transforming every workout into a path to mental well-being. The same reason why physical activity is considered one of the top three stress-busting strategies.

Community

Whether I’m in a yoga class or hitting the trails with compeer enthusiasts, the camaraderie of the exercise community is a priceless bonus. I feel especially inspired and motivated when I practice yoga next to my fellow mid-70s yogis. I sure want to get to my mom’s age being able to touch my forehead to my shin. Besides, the energy of The Yoga Mix – the studio I’m a member of, makes it more like a sanctuary for me. It’s an awesome group of like-minded people who share values and beliefs. We challenge each other and celebrate the passion that unites us.

Living Life Unleashed

Our bodies were designed to move – just mind the number of bones and joints we have. As human beings, we thrive on movement – dancing, for instance, has been how we connect with the divine and celebrate life since ancient times. Staying active is a short and long-term investment in ourselves. From a long-term perspective, exercise is liberation – each workout is a setup for independence in our golden years. This is one more reason to move so, take your future into your own hands. Be the master of your health and happiness, give yourself the chance to live life unleashed, unrestrained, and in full color.

Find your Jam

If you are the type of person who does not like exercise, just broadens your horizons. Movement does not mean hitting the gym or playing sports. Everything counts – take the stairs, park your car further away, or walk your dog. There are so many different ways to move, just find one that brings you joy. Try different things – hiking, biking, swimming, dance, Pilates, yoga, Taichi, martial arts, and wall climbing are just some examples. Even cleaning your house counts as movement. I love gardening – it’s an awesome way to exercise with the perks of getting vitamin D, fresh air, and fresh food. 

After all, every movement is a celebration of all the miracles our bodies are capable of doing. As I lace up my sneakers and hit the pavement, I can’t help but feel like I’ve discovered the elixir of life.

Remember: Good is what makes you feel well!

Anna.

Read more about other ways to support your health on Breathwork.