Rediscover the Joy of Movement

When movement feels like play instead of punishment, it becomes something you look forward to, and keep up.

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Before you read on

Picture one thing you used to do just because it was fun. What made it fun, not just active?

Why it matters

Movement can start to feel like an obligation, or a punishment for something eaten. It does not have to. Enjoyable activity stops being a task and becomes something to look forward to.

What to know

Work, commutes and caregiving crowd out time for activities once loved. Look back at what you enjoyed before, notice what made past routines fall away, and pay attention to what leaves you energized rather than drained.

Shift the frame from “I have to exercise” to “I get to move.” Dancing in the kitchen, a walk with a friend, gardening or playing with your kids all count.

Try this

What movement did you truly enjoy in the past, and what did you like about it?
If you stepped away, what got in the way, and what might be different now?
What is one enjoyable activity you would try this week?

No need to pick up exactly where you left off years ago. If starting something new, or managing a health condition, a pregnancy or an injury, it is worth discussing with your doctor where to begin. Meet your body where it is today, and let play, not punishment, carry the habit.

Ready to write down one movement you used to love? This month’s activity walks through it, one small step at a time.

Open What You Used to Love →

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