Amplify Joy Through Movement

Over the last couple of months, I’ve written a series of articles talking through several foundational aspects to health – if you’ve been following along, I hope you’ve learned a lot! 

If you're new here, you can find the topics I’ve covered at my blog here! 

In my last article, I talked about one of my favorite metaphors for a holistic and functional approach to health: “36 Holes in the Roof.”

Check out that blog article here!

This week let’s talk about another opportunity to optimize health (aka patch more holes): movement!

The importance of daily movement

It’s no secret that physical activity is associated with better sleep, improved digestion, improved cardiovascular health, and improved mental health. 

Some of these benefits probably aren’t new to you, but let’s dive a little deeper into the mental health benefits of movement.

Did you know that any amount of movement can give you more energy and help you feel a more positive outlook? Even just 3 minutes of dancing!

Never underestimate the power of a short walk or the choice to take the stairs instead of the elevator.

Now let’s get to the good stuff!

The mental health benefits of movement extend far beyond the rush of feel-good endorphins experienced immediately after a workout. 

New research from the last decade has revealed that muscles are essentially endocrine organs (aka they can help regulate hormones).

When you participate in movement, your muscles release chemicals that reduce inflammation, improve blood sugar control, destroy cancer cells, and make the brain more resilient to stress! 

Just 20 minutes of continuous movement leads to changes in brain chemistry that makes it easier to connect with others.

Movement gives us access to core human capacities for joy including teamwork and cooperation, mastery of new skills, growth and learning, music, nature, and community. 

Emerging research even suggests that movement in nature can alter brain activity similar to meditation (which can have a profound positive impact on overall health).

Movement is an opportunity to amplify the joy you feel in life.

If physical activity is not a part of your daily life or you’d like to revitalize your routine, I’d like to challenge you to find a form of movement that fits into your lifestyle and feels accessible to you right now. 

How can you use movement as an opportunity to enjoy something you already love? 

That could be spending time in nature, learning new skills, listening to music, or spending time with people you care about. 

I recently joined a yoga studio as an intentional way to slow down, practice movement and mindfulness, and connect with other women. The time I spend once a week at yoga brings me immense peace, joy, and gratitude that I carry with me throughout the week.

How can you incorporate more joy-amplifying movement into your daily life?

Are you struggling with a health concern, whether it’s a diagnosis, an annoying symptom, or just a feeling that something isn’t quite right?

Schedule a free consultation with me by clicking here! 

I'd love to help you get on a path to feeling better.