Finding time to exercise and stretch can be hard enough with busy schedules and other responsibilities. However, there are often mental barriers that hold us back as well, which makes it almost impossible to fully commit to a yoga or fitness routine, let alone enjoy it. Let’s take a look at these limiting beliefs so we can move forward with the right mindset.
Here are 3 mindset changes every woman needs to hear to embrace exercise as an enjoyable part of their life:
1. Love, Not Hate
One of the most profound mindset shifts is exercising out of love for your body rather than out of hatred. It’s important to realize if you have negative feelings about your body, it’s not your fault. Media and ad campaigns have ingrained the idea that there is a certain appearance we should all strive for. Exercising then becomes a punishment you have to do because you’re not good enough. Holding on to that mentality when you are exercising will make you resent it.
However, by approaching fitness as an act of self-love, you create a positive and sustainable way to move forward. This shift can be challenging and emotional, so be patient and try to become aware when any negative self-talk surfaces. Would you speak so harshly to a friend? I doubt it. Extend that same compassion to yourself—you deserve it.
2. Focus on Feeling Over Appearance:
Direct your attention toward the positive emotions that exercise can bring, rather than fixating on altering your appearance. Emotions like feeling proud, accomplished, energized, or relaxed are really powerful when we consciously recognize and value them. The key is that we can experience these effects instantly – both during and after exercise and stretching. Unlike physical transformations that require time, these emotional rewards are immediate, making them a more accessible and sustainable source of motivation.
3. Appreciate All That Your Body Does For You:
Your Body is an Instrument, Not an Ornament. This powerful statement comes from Lindsay and Lexi Kite, authors of More Than A Body. Your body is not a decoration to be enjoyed by others. It is a tool that allows you to enjoy your life to the fullest. Start to shift your thinking from how your body looks, to everything your body does for you. Every stretch, every workout, either maintains or improves your ability to enjoy the activities you love.
So take some time to appreciate your body. Tune into how it is feeling. If it is stiff and sore, move and stretch so that you can feel better. Exercise so that it can function well and prevent injuries in the future. Your body deserves to be taken care of, it does so much for you every day! When you take the time to do so, be proud of yourself! Enjoy the sensations of your heart pumping and your muscles stretching and relaxing. Allow these feelings to serve as reminders of how amazing your body is and your commitment to its health.
These shifts in mindset are your tools for creating a lasting fitness journey that’s centered around self-compassion and empowerment. By redirecting your focus from self-critique to self-love, from appearances to emotions, and from external judgement to acknowledging your body’s capabilities, you’ll be creating a healthy relationship with your body that allows you to make exercise an enjoyable part of your life!
