Lift your spirits with these tips to get your body moving.

 

Navigating life in general is tough enough with stress, depression and anxiety but the events of 2020 have certainly exacerbated it. If you find that you’re having a tough time mentally, get your body moving. Keeping fit can do more than just keep your muscles toned, it’s also great for your mind and spirit. Organisations like the UK’s National Health Service recognises this and recommends regular exercise to boost your mood. Of course, sometimes it’s hard to find the motivation so here are some tips for those low moments.

 

Let’s start at the very beginning

Take baby steps and remind yourself that exercise doesn’t have to be heart-pumping and intense. At times like these, simply getting out of the house for a walk or a jog in the fresh air can make a big difference. Start with a 10-15 minute walk each day after lunch, for example, and gradually work your way up from there. 


Ready, Set, Go

Getting ready for a workout can sometimes feel like a chore, particularly when you aren’t in the best of moods. One thing you can do is have a small gym bag packed on the good days and kept by the side of your door. This way, there’s one less obstacle in your way when you finally decide to pop over to the gym, especially when it requires so much willpower to make this effort in the first place. Just put on your shoes, pick up the bag and go!


What’s the story, morning glory?

Exercise can be a lonely endeavour but you don’t need your family and friends physically present to help give you that little push you need. Reach out to them if you’re feeling low – trust that they have your back. There’s nothing like knowing that people you love are there for you to make you feel good about yourself. Better still, give them a call and get them to join you on that walk or run outdoors. This way, you can still have company and still be socially-distant if necessary.