Exercise – It’s Not Just About Size

Are you physically weak? Mentally drained? Do you suffer with low self-esteem or have anger issues? You’ve probably heard it before, but exercise can do wonders in all of those areas.

Is this a New Year’s resolution post? No. This is a lifestyle post.

I read an article earlier about low self-esteem that reminded me of myself, after I’ve gone a few days without working out. I feel sluggish, irritated and flabby, which is nonsense because at 122 lbs I’m far from flabby. But, that’s the point. Working out makes me feel good from the inside out.

That’s why I do it. Not only does exercise help me maintain my fitness level, but more importantly it keeps me feeling good about myself. For me, that’s top priority. Strength and being toned is secondary.

Exercise greatly improves a person’s mental state. When you’re feeling good about yourself, you can conquer the world. Not literally, but it sure feels like it. You’re at peace with those around you. Your patience level is good and you’re happier. Exercise is an excellent stress reliever and can also improve relationships.

With that said, there is one big key to all of this. You have to make it a routine. Working out every now and then, when you ‘have time’ will not provide the full benefits mentioned above. It has to be done on a regular basis. The routine you choose doesn’t necessarily have to be intense. You just have to find what works for you. It could be as simple as yoga, pilates, riding a bike or walking every day.

So, how do you begin? The answer is in the question. You begin. You start today, not Monday. The ‘Monday plan’ almost always brings failure, because before you know it, five Mondays have gone by and you’re still saying “I’ll start Monday.” To prevent that, start today.

They (whoever ‘they’ are) say that it takes 21 days to form a habit, but I somewhat disagree. A habit is formed when you get to the point where you ‘have’ to do it. For some, that could take two weeks and for others it could be two months. Whatever it takes for you, the key is to keep at it and not give up. As long as you don’t give up, it will become a habit and an enjoyable one at that.

Trust me, you will appreciate making exercise a part of your lifestyle. It is well worth the time and the pain. Your body will feel better and you will feel better. This may sound like an overly discussed topic and you may even be tired of hearing about it.  But, the reason it’s spoken about so often, is because it’s true.

I’m just sharing what’s worked for me, in hopes that it will help others out there who are suffering from the issues mentioned at the top of this post.

You don’t have to let life control you. You can control it.  Start today.