Exercise is Crucial to Intentional Living
When women 55+ exercise with intention, many benefits accrue.
They are more mindful. They focus better, and they sleep better. They live with purpose and joy.
The link between exercise and living with intention - A preamble
Are you seeking to live a more intentional life but finding it challenging? You are not alone. I tend to put off exercise, and before I know it, the day is done.
However, recent studies have found that regular exercise increases mindfulness and leads to a more purposeful life, particularly for women aged 55 and over.
The Science Behind the Link
It all comes down to brain chemistry. For example, exercise promotes the release of endorphins, known as "feel-good" chemicals that can improve mood and reduce stress. Endorphins also interact with areas of the brain associated with attention and focus, leading to increased mindfulness.
Additionally, regular exercise can improve sleep quality, contributing to increased mindfulness and a more intentional life.
By understanding the science behind the link between exercise and intentionality, we can better appreciate the power of physical activity in promoting a more purposeful life.
Mind loops that prevent us from exercising
Let’s see if I have this right. Do you wrestle with thoughts like:
I don’t want to exert myself.
I can’t do this exercise thing. I have always struggled with sports.
I am too fat; weak; skinny; ‘booby.
I don’t have anything to wear.
I need more time, money, skill, or someone to exercise with.
Netflix is calling.
And what are your emotions that pair with your thoughts about exercising? Are you taken back to your days in gym class?
Or did you love to exercise and play sports, but life took you out of that happy loop, and you are not sure you can get back into shape?
Practical Exercise Tips for Intentional Living
To fully embrace intentional living, it's essential to incorporate exercise into your routine. But how can you make sure you're doing it mindfully?
First, set a specific goal for your exercise routine. Commit to a daily walk or aim to complete a 5K. Having a goal in mind will help you stay focused.
Next, try to mix up your routine. This not only prevents boredom but also challenges your body in new ways. One day, you go for a run, and the next, you try a yoga class. The variety will keep things interesting.
Please pay attention to your body and how it feels during and after exercise. Are you pushing yourself too hard, or could you ramp up the intensity? Being mindful while exercising involves being present in your body and making adjustments as needed.
Lastly, consider finding a workout buddy or joining a fitness community. Having someone to exercise with can keep you motivated and accountable. Plus, it's an excellent opportunity to connect with others who share your commitment to intentional living.
By incorporating these practical exercise tips into your routine, you can harness the power of physical activity and live a more purposeful life.
What exercise works best for you?
There are countless ways to get moving and incorporate exercise into your life. The key is to find something that you enjoy and can stick with. Here are a few different types of exercise to consider:
1. Cardiovascular exercise: This type of exercise increases your heart rate and gets your blood pumping. Running, cycling, swimming, and dancing are all great options. Not only can it help you shed pounds and improve your physical health, but it can also boost your mood and reduce stress.
2. Strength training: Building muscle is essential for maintaining healthy body composition and preventing injuries. Strength training includes weightlifting, bodyweight exercises, and resistance band workouts. Don't worry about "bulking up" - adding a few pounds of muscle can make you look and feel better.
3. Yoga: This mind-body practice combines physical movement with mindfulness and relaxation techniques. Yoga can improve flexibility, balance, and strength while reducing stress and improving mental clarity. There are many different types of yoga, so you can find one that suits your needs and fitness level.
4. Outdoor activities: If you prefer to be outside, there are plenty of ways to get active. Hiking, kayaking, and rock climbing are all great options. Outdoor exercise can also provide a sense of adventure and connection to the natural world.
5. Group fitness classes: If you thrive on social interaction and accountability, joining a group fitness class might be the way to go. From Zumba to kickboxing to spin class, there are endless options for group exercise. You'll have fun while getting fit and making new friends.
Remember, there's no one-size-fits-all approach to exercise. Instead, experiment with different workouts and find what feels good for you. By incorporating intentional movement into your life, you'll reap the physical, mental, and emotional benefits of exercise.
Further Reading
From gf-fitnes.co.uk: “Five Ways to Workout with Intention.” Practical tips to help us.
From Rutgers: “Putting Fitness Intention into Action.” Straightforward tips.
Conclusion
Regular exercise has been shown to have a surprising link with intentional living, especially for women over 55.
Through exploring the science behind this connection and practical exercise tips, we see that exercise increases mindfulness, self-awareness, and purposeful living.
By finding and sticking with an exercise routine that works for you, you can experience the profound benefits of living with intention.
As the writer and philosopher Ralph Waldo Emerson once said, "The first wealth is health."
So, let's prioritize our health and well-being by incorporating exercise into our daily lives and live intentionally with greater purpose and mindfulness.
A challenge for you:
Choose one form of exercise that you believe you would enjoy doing.
Make a firm plan to incorporate them into your life for 21 days. You decide how often you will do it. Make sure you are not wimping out. Intentionally challenge yourself.
Monitor how your body responds and how your emotions and thoughts help and hinder you.
After 21 days, revise your plan - if needed - and carry on in 21-day increments.
Celebrate.
You are amazing!
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