Move...Because You Can
Happy Wednesday!!
This past week I have felt super lethargic. Here in Maryland, we have had endless grey, overcast days without any hint of sunshine and it is a real energy zapper. These are the times it is really hard to find the motivation to keep my body moving.
As a person that has been active most of my life, in some way, it is part of my routine and keeps me sane and happy (most days.) I was involved in sports from a young age. I played softball from the time I was five until my later teenage years and enjoyed volleyball in high school. I tried basketball for a few years in there too, but oh boy- that was not my sport. God bless those coaches!!
Once I got to college and did not have a coach to keep me moving, I picked up running because it didn't cost anything and you could do it anywhere. Over the years, I have worked out in gyms, taken classes, done boot camps- all the things. Then after having children, I decided to find a new way of staying active. I have my set up in the basement and I am so grateful for my YouTube videos (again- free and I can do them when I want to.) When I want to get out and enjoy the sunshine, I just walk these days. My knees thank me for opting for that, instead of running now.
My goals for moving at 43, are much different than they were when I was 23- that's for sure. I move, because I can. I move because I want to. I don't exercise because I think I have to. I always tell my girls that I need to stay strong and healthy so I can live a long life- that is my goal. That is my "why."
I also am someone that tries really hard to find balance in what I eat, as well. I have friends and family members that have struggled their whole lives with finding this peace in their bodies so it is something I am very aware of. I am human though...and I have better days than others.
After seriously enjoying myself this weekend with desserts and chocolate, I pulled out my dusty scale. I should preface this by saying I might weigh myself a few times a year. This number has never been something I define myself by, but every once in a while, I just like to know. What made me want to pull the scale out after a weekend of indulging was like some type of self-torture though. Like I said- some days are better than others. Well, someone must have been watching over me because- guess what?! The batteries in the scale were dead! I looked at it and laughed because it was such a glaring sign that said, "You do not need to know this number today! It is NOT important." So the dusty scale with the dead battery went back under my sink. I have no plans of replacing those batteries any time soon!
Why am I sharing all of this with you today? Well, because hopefully there is a part of you that can relate. Maybe you can put your dusty scale in the garbage so that you realize your value and worth does not lie in that ridiculous number. Or maybe my story will inspire you to get outside for a walk, have a dance party or find a video to get your gorgeous body moving today. If you do, move because you can- not because you feel like you have to or because you think you should.
"And I said to my body softly, 'I want to be your friend.' It took a long breath and replied, 'I have been waiting my whole life for this."
-Nayyirah Waheed
As always, thank for reading.
With Gratitude-
Rachel