With all that is still happening in our Nation, it almost has to be a focused effort to do things in your life that relieves stress.   Today I want to talk with you about something that is very helpful if you are struggling with stress and anxiety.  Admittedly, it is one I truly struggle myself with even though I know it will help alleviate my stress … and that is exercise.  I have never been one to exercise.  I have tried many times with many programs only to be discouraged and give up.  I will go through periods of going for walks, which I enjoy, and feel the benefit of it.  But I eventually tire of it and stop.  Participating in an exercise regime is hard for me.  Now with that being said, I am a very active person.  Personally, I love my gardening in the summer and the part of my business being a Professional Organizer keeps me very active.

I’ve tried to determine why I struggle with exercising and believe the root cause is from way back in elementary school.  I enjoyed gym (initially).  Was very active as a child.  We were always outside playing, riding bikes and just being adventurous.  But as time went on I began to hate gym.  We would yearly participate in those “Presidential Programs” where you were in these timed/competitive exercises.  Many of them were running relays.  I would run with all my might and think I was moving quite fast to only find out I came in the bottom of the rankings.  So the next race I’d run even faster to only find that I didn’t do better.  I was discouraged, embarrassed and began to hate gym.

I think my problem was because of the anxiety I was living with as a child.   I had very shallow breathing.  My lung capacity could not handle much in the way of stamina.  As much as I would try harder, my body just could not handle it.  I didn’t realize it then and determined I was just not good at these exercise programs.  Would I have known, I could have learned how to breath deeper and better and strengthened my lungs to give me the ability to endure.

So why do you want to “get moving?”  Here are a few reasons:

• When we exercise, our brain releases endorphins, which are chemicals that make you feel happier and more energized. It actually makes you feel more active.
• Exercising helps to boost your immune system.
• Exercising decreases chemicals that cause you to feel sad or depressed.
• Exercising helps to loosen any muscle tension you may have in your body.
• If you combine exercising and being outside, you are getting Vitamin D and lots of fresh air while you are getting physically fit.

Know that exercising doesn’t have to be for long periods of time.  If you can get 30 minutes in 3-4 times a week, you are doing great.

So what is your reason for being inactive?  Can you get to the root of the issue?  Sometimes it takes some time to understand.   But knowledge and understanding can be freeing.  If you are one of those individuals like myself, struggling to exercise, spend some quiet time alone and reflect on what may be hindering you.  Get to the root and then ask the Lord to heal that issue or trauma in your life.  Then “Get Moving!”

You will be glad you did … and so will your body.

If you would like some guidance to help you get to this root, don’t hesitate to contact me.  I’d be honored to help you walk towards freedom in this area.

A great Scripture to meditate on could be, “My people perish for lack of knowledge.” Hosea 4:6. Don’t let this root stay “rooted” in you.  Seek the answer to this issue in your life.

 

Your Health, Wellness and Organizing Expert … Believing in You!