7 Steps to Motivate More Movement

I knew this week’s posts were going to be hard for me to write. But I had no idea how hard….

I have a really bad attitude about exercise. (Please don’t give me a pep talk. I’m happy for those of you who love it. I’m annoyed with those  who hate it and do it anyway.)

I’ve tried to be more active this week. So far I would give myself a C. Because I still don’t think I’m doing enough, and because there has been no gratitude in my attitude.

Did you know the word attitude comes from the Latin word, aptitudo, meaning ‘fitness?’ No wonder a positive attitude improves our overall health: mentally, physically, emotionally, and spiritually.

I’ve created a list of –  7 Steps to Motivate More Movement for myself. Maybe it will help you too.

1. Make a list of activities you enjoy – I love to play. It’s working out I don’t like. So, I’m making a list of things that are physically active that I call “play.”  I love to play with my grandsons, play with a pet, and dance. Hmmm. I just realized this Sanguine prefers an activity buddy. That’s good to know.“Fitness needs to be perceived as fun and games or we subconsciously avoid it.” ~Alan Thicke

2. Don’t compare yourself to anyone else – Make physical activity about health not shape and size. Like a healthy diet I want to do this for me, not to impress someone else.

3. Do something everyday, baby steps are still steps – My prayer is to do something each day. I’m not going to be thrilled with my progress or my attitude each day . . . my goal is to keep moving forward and to never give up.

Don’t look for the big, quick improvement. Seek the small improvement one day at a time. That’s the only way it happens – and when it happens, it lasts. ~JohnWooden

4. Focus on good posture – I can do this, and I’m excited to know good posture reduces the risk of neck and back pain, helps to protect joints and organs, and improves breathing.

5. Practice deep breathing – I can do this one, too. Woo Hoo! Deep breathing releases toxins, strengthens immune systems, increases oxygen in the blood, relieves pain and tension, and improves moods.

6. Laugh more – I love to laugh! Laughter exercises abs and facial muscles, lowers blood pressure, reduces stress, and improves creativity, alertness, and memory.

“We are all worms, but I do believe I am a glowworm.” ~Winston Churchill

7. Visualize success – I’m anticipating how I will feel after thirty days of improved health and strength through movement, and I’m picturing myself praising God for His helping me by changing my attitude.

So whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God. 1 Corinthians 10:31

I’m taking this one day at a time believing that by God’s grace my attitude will improve as I praise Him for each day of health I am able to get up and move.

Are you in?

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