Hey there! We all know how difficult it can be to squeeze in exercise amidst our busy lives or when dealing with health challenges. But worry not! I've got a secret for you - light exercising can be your new best friend!
It's an easy, low-impact way to kickstart your fitness journey without hitting the gym. Plus, it's fantastic for both those with limited time and for those battling health issues. So let's dive into the wonderful world of light exercise and explore how to mentally enjoy it!
Find Your Perfect Match:
The beauty of light exercise lies in its versatility. There's something for everyone! Whether you prefer stretching, walking your dog, yoga, riding the bike, swimming or even dancing, choose an activity that resonates with your interests and comfort level. Remember, it's not about pushing yourself to the limit; it's about enjoying the movement.
PRO TIP - In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), overexertion leads to early ageing. It is better to engage in light exercise that is sustainable throughout your life than lift monstrous amounts of weights coupled with profuse sweating at the gym for a few weeks here and there. Overexertion can lead to greater injuries, poor technique, losing motivation to further continue, mental stress and feeling a sense of ‘burden’. Remember you have one body, give it the love, care and respect it deserves to operate as best as it can for as long as possible!
Create a Positive Environment:
Set the mood for your light exercise routine by creating a positive and inviting atmosphere. Play your favourite music, audiobook, catch up on lectures or listen to a podcast that interests you. Surround yourself with uplifting colours and motivational quotes. The more you associate exercise with positivity, the more you'll look forward to it. I personally love to listen to podcasts while I exercise as it stimulates certain parts of the brain (frontal and temporal lobes) while exercising activates other parts (the prefrontal cortex, medial temporal cortex and cerebellum). Along with increased levels of oxygen and blood rushing to the brain, the more mentally engaged I am during a workout the more aware I feel I am of my form and technique during the workout.
Also exercise releases dopamine, which is a hormone for pleasure, satisfaction and motivation. Dopamine is released when we experience an emotionally charged event – making it easier for us to remember accurately. So, the podcasts that make us laugh, gasp and cry? Those are the ones we’re going to remember.
PRO TIP - Your brain is five times more active when listening to an audio story than when listening to a list of random facts. Imagine what happens with your memory when coupled with exercise.
Buddy Up:
Light exercise is even more enjoyable when you have a workout buddy. Grab a friend, family member, get your kids involved, or even furry companion to join you on your fitness journey. Not only will this keep you motivated, but it also adds a social element that makes exercising more fun.
PRO TIP - Exercising with your family and friends will naturally help increase your bond and companionship with each other, creating greater trust and memories.
Sneak It into Your Schedule:
Don't stress over finding time for light exercise; incorporate it into your daily routine seamlessly. Take short walks during your lunch break, do some gentle stretches while watching TV, or have a dance party while cooking dinner. These tiny moments of movement add up and make a significant difference in the long run.
PRO TIP - Set a time limit for your workouts. I remember when I was 22 I set a limit for my exercises on my phone timer for 22 minutes per day. This was short, quick, impactful, enjoyable and above all so manageable. I would superset with body weight and weighted exercises and the beauty of having my daily workouts capped at 22 mins is that over time I would naturally increase it to 25 mins, then 30, to 35 then 40 mins - and I did this for 565 days straight!
Focus on the Journey, Not the Destination:
Embrace the joy of the present moment during your light exercise sessions. Shift your focus from reaching specific fitness goals to savouring each movement. Pay attention to your breath, the way your body feels, and the pleasure of being active. And the goal isn't to look like famous bodybuilders or celebrities! On the contrary the goal is to gradually improve YOU - the person that matters the most!
PRO TIP - Remember exercise doesn’t need to be expensive. Rather you can exercise at absolute no cost - FOR FREE! It can be in your living room, garage, backyard, the local park or even in your bedroom (no funny thoughts intended hehe). If you did want to purchase equipment you can buy resistance bands, light weights, a bench (and it can be from online, cheaper wholesale stores or even second hand from Facebook Marketplace or Gumtree).
Reward Yourself:
Treat yourself after each light exercise session. It could be something as simple as enjoying a piece of dark chocolate, indulging in a relaxing bubble bath, or spending some time with your favourite hobby. Associating rewards with exercise will reinforce a positive mindset about staying active.
PRO TIP - Sometimes the exercise itself is the reward! The pump, energy and overall strength you get before the exercise is all that is needed to brighten your day! Ultimately clothes will start to fit better, your digestion will start to improve, you may be more mindful of your diet, your mental health with start to improve and you’ll start to look better,
Track Your Progress:
While the purpose of light exercise isn't to achieve Herculean feats, it's still satisfying to see your progress. Keep a journal or use an app to log your daily activity. Witnessing the gradual improvements will boost your confidence and keep you motivated.
PRO TIP - I would take monthly pictures at the beginning of every month.
Embrace Variety:
Don't stick to the same routine day after day. Mix things up! Try different light exercises, explore new walking trails, or follow online yoga classes. Embracing variety not only prevents boredom but also challenges different muscle groups, giving you a well-rounded experience.
PRO TIP - Wearing different gym gear and clothes can even change your mindset.
Remember, light exercise isn't just about physical health; it's about nurturing your mental well-being too. So, smile, have fun, and let the positivity flow! Before you know it, light exercise will become an enjoyable part of your daily life, leaving you feeling healthier and happier.
So, are you ready to embark on this delightful journey of light exercise? Let's do it together and make fitness a joyful and accessible experience for everyone! And if you need that extra bit of motivation and support follow our Instagram or Facebook for more regular motivation! Happy exercising! 🏃♀️🏃♂️
It is vital to discuss your main goals and health complaints with our health practitioners and ask all your relevant questions. Only then, our experienced practitioner can help further understand your situation and can they apply the best treatment protocol.
Dr Mohammad Hassan (TCM) - AcuLife
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AcuLife
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