So I’m assuming if you are reading this blog you’ve heard of intuitive eating by now – but what about intuitive movement?
Intuitive movement invites us to turn our attention away from the physical changes associated with exercise to instead focus on other benefits of exercise. Our society’s weight-loss obsession has inundated us with the false belief that health is synonymous with thinness, which makes it extremely difficult to uncouple movement from the desire to change our bodies. If you view exercise as a means to achieve a specific body type or some unattainable standard, I can tell you right now that you will be left disappointed. Even if you reach your “ideal physical self” one day, you will still find yourself nitpicking your physical appearance. It comes down to this: weight loss does not guarantee self-love.
This is why it is essential to take a step back and approach exercise from a different point of view. Whether you are a certified personal trainer with a deep appreciation and passion for exercise or someone who is apprehensive in the gym due to painful memories of disordered eating, anyone and everyone can benefit from intuitive movement.
The concept of intuitive movement emphasizes that exercise is not “all-or-nothing.” You do not have to limit yourself to high-intensity cardio exercises that you detest just for the sake of burning more calories. When you do not allow yourself to partake in low-intensity exercises that you enjoy – whether that be long walks, yoga, or pilates – exercise will quickly be something that you dread.
Types of Movement
Don’t underestimate the power of simple movements. Non-exercise activity thermogenesis (NEAT) comprises the energy we expend from movement outside of formal exercise. Basically, these are the actions in our normal routine: mowing the lawn, washing dishes, standing at our desks, climbing stairs, and doing laundry – to name a few. Whether you know it or not, you are already engaging in daily habits that vastly improve your overall heart and metabolic health.
Active energy expenditure (AEE) includes all activities performed while not at rest. In other words, this is the energy expended through formal exercises such as running on a treadmill, strength training, or jumping rope. If you cringe at the thought of any of these, I encourage you to embrace the concept of intuitive movement and open yourself up to other exercises. You are more likely to frequently engage in an exercise and follow a consistent routine if you incorporate more types of movement that brings you joy.
Benefits of Intuitive Movement
Throw away the scale. Stop picking apart your body in the mirror. Instead of fixating on exercise’s effect on your physical appearance, focus on the other aspects of your life that intuitive movement can enhance.
1). Health
- Movement reduces your risk of cancer, cardiovascular disease, hypertension, osteoporosis, and other chronic diseases.
2). Stress Relief
- Participating in movements that you enjoy can be an excellent way to de-stress and improve your overall quality of life. Instead of stressing over how many calories you burned or how much you sweat during a workout, you can find pleasure in movement that satisfies your body’s needs.
3). Improved Sleep
- Intuitive movement means honoring your body’s needs and knowing when it needs time to rest and recover. This includes acknowledging that sleep is just as important as physical activity and productivity.
More Benefits:
- Increased bone mineral density
- Enhanced flexibility
- Higher amounts of energy
- Increased muscle mass and strength
- Higher motivation
- More mental energy to devote to other hobbies
Connecting With Your Body
Like intuitive eating, intuitive movement encourages us to check in with ourselves and our bodies. Here are a few questions to explore your current relationship with movement.
- Are you enjoying your current workouts?
- Does your current exercise routine alleviate stress? Or does it cause stress?
- Do your present movements enhance your mind-body connection?
Everyone comes from a different path when it pertains to exercise. No matter where you are in your intuitive eating journey or your relationship with exercise, intuitive movement is something that can benefit all of us. Your body has served you well up to this point, and it deserves to be honored and respected through joyful movement.
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