Five Pillars of Pain-Free Living: Movement
Over the course of the next few months, I wanted to introduce you to my five pillars of pain-free living. The first pillar that I would like to share with you is ‘Movement’.
When I say movement, I don’t mean rushing out to buy all the latest gear or attempting to run a marathon. Just 150 minutes per week (which is only around 20 minutes every day) of gentle exercise, such as walking or stretching, can help you to lead a much healthier and happier life.
Regular physical activity can increase our self-esteem, relieve feelings of stress and anxiety, help us to sleep better, and boost our overall mood.
So, let’s get moving!
“I get bursts of creativity with bursts of physical activity”
Payal Kadakia
Human beings are designed to move!
As human beings, our lifestyles are becoming increasingly sedentary, whether it’s a long commute to work, sitting at our desks for lengthy periods of time, or relaxing in front of the television in the evening.
Blood clots and thrombosis are also becoming more prevalent as people are sitting for longer throughout the day, which is another very good reason to move more!
Whilst we often can’t get away from these periods of inactivity, regular movement can make a massive difference to our health and wellbeing, and it can really help you to move towards living your life pain-free and without limits!
Five simple ways to move more!
To help you on your journey to pain-free living, I’ve put together five simple ways that you can start to include more movement into your everyday life!
Start small
Don’t push yourself too soon. It’s absolutely ok to take small steps, known as the Kaizen philosophy, and to build up your levels of daily exercise at a comfortable pace that suits you. This isn’t about anybody else; it’s about you.
Take a lunchtime stroll
Even if you’re working from home, as many of us are at the moment, take time in your lunch break to go for a stroll and inhale some lovely, fresh air. You’ll feel refreshed, invigorated and all set for a productive afternoon.
Keep moving all day long!
Sometimes it’s the little things that count. Even standing up and having a little shimmy or a shuffle in between your favourite box set episodes will help you to move more!
Stay active with friends and family at the weekend
Whilst life is undoubtedly a little unusual at present, we can still enjoy exercise with our family and friends at the weekend – obviously ensuring that we are socially distancing and following the government guidelines where necessary! Not only will we feel revitalised and rejuvenated from a long weekend walk in the countryside, but we’ll also have time to reconnect with our loved ones.
Treat yourself!
We all deserve a treat every now and again, especially when you’ve challenged yourself to do something that may be out of your comfort zone. Set yourself activity goals and rewards. This could be anything from curling up under a cosy blanket to watch a feel-good film, to a relaxing soak in the bath with your favourite book.
“Take care of your body. It’s the only place you have to live.”
Jim Rohn
Consistency is key!
As with anything in life, consistency is the key. I can promise you that when you begin to incorporate regular, gentle exercise into your routine, you will start to see a real difference in not just your physical health but your mental health too.
Put down the painkillers!
I understand. I’ve been there. Chronic muscle and joint pain can be both physically and emotionally exhausting, and there’s no doubt that they can add unnecessary stress to our already busy lives. You may be tempted to reach for the pain killers, but they really only offer short-term relief, and the side effects are very rarely worth it. Instead, listen to what your body is trying to tell you. It’s genuinely remarkable!
Let’s get physical!
During lockdown, I created a library of techniques to help you stay flexible, including carrying out simple stretches that can be done either standing or sitting as soon as you feel a niggle coming on. These are my ‘Morning Mobilisers’, and you can sign up for my free guide here.
Until next time!
Look after yourself,
Karen x
