It’s not exactly groundbreaking news, but it bears repeating: moving our bodies really does do us a lot of good.
That’s not just in terms of our physical selves.
With all the cumulative stress of the last years, now more than ever we need to be looking after our mental health – and moving our bodies is a key part of that.
We know this, but this can be easier said than done. Finding the motivation to get up and have a dance around the kitchen is tricky, especially when staying under a blanket on the sofa feels so good.
To help get us moving, Joe Wicks has teamed up with mental health charity Mind to share his top tips for making physical activity part of our everyday routines.
‘I always feel amazing after a long bike-ride, a sweaty HIIT session or a walk around the park,’ Joe says. ‘Even when I’m feeling completely unmotivated, I remind myself how much better, happier and more energised I feel after I work out.
‘Whether you get outside for a walk or make time for a five-minute stretch – moving your body will lift your mood.
‘That’s why I’m so proud to support Move for Mind. It’s a perfect opportunity to find a movement which works for you, while raising vital funds for an important cause.’
Sounds good to us. So let’s get into those tips…
How to start getting more active for your mental health
Start off slowly. It may take a while to build up your fitness. Doing too much at first will make you feel tired and may put you off.
Plan a realistic and achievable routine. Try to find ways to be active that fit into your day-to-day life around your existing commitments, or build activity into your daily life. Trying to move a bit more every day can really help.
Be kind to yourself. Sometimes you can’t be as active as you would like, and your energy levels will vary on different days. It’s fine to slow down or take a break. Take each day at a time and celebrate even the smallest of wins.
Try to identify your triggers and work around them. For example, if you find leaving the house difficult or don’t like to exercise in front of other people, you could try doing some exercise at home.
Keep trying. It may take a while to find an activity you like. As well as trying different activities, you may find that you prefer a particular class, instructor or group.
Try not to compare yourself to other people. Set your own goals based on your own abilities and what you would like to achieve. Try to pay attention to how you are feeling and the progress you are making rather than other people. Avoid over-exercising, as this can be harmful.
Set yourself a goal. If you feel a goal would be helpful, and you’d like to support Mind at the same time, visit Move for Mind.
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