Exercise as ME TIME Not Just for Weight Loss

I am a big To Do List person.  I always have a To Do list going.  I LOVE crossing things off my life.  I have a sense of accomplishment and dwindling down of things to take care of.  Now, keep in mind that I can add four things to my list but those are new; even if I only cross of two, that is a success to me.

I love the feeling I get when I accomplish something, even if it is working out.  I schedule my workouts into my day just as I would an important meeting or a doctor’s appointment.  What more important meeting or appointment than one I make for myself?  I’ve often said that if the feelings you get from being active (even walking up a few flights of stairs rather than take an elevator) and working out were able to be bottled, it would never be in stock as it would be sold out all the time.  Yet, many of us dread or avoid exercising.

Just as crossing off an item on my To Do List, the same with exercising.  Don’t get me wrong, I can’t say that I love exercising.  Truth be told, I generally don’t.  What I do love is the feeling I have when I work out, the endorphins and the sense of accomplishment that comes with crossing it off my list.  I feel “on” and more in control when I exercise.  It is a feeling that keeps on giving all throughout my day.

My workouts are also “Me Time” when I can think without distraction.  Even if I’m walking with my iPod in my ears or watching the television while on a treadmill, I think.  My thinking is so much clearer and stronger in processing things in my life.  It is among the most special times of my day.  It started off with wanting to lose weight, maintain my weight but has taken on a deeper meaning.  My “Me Time” is really a special time for me.

I’m asked by clients how to keep their motivation high when it comes to exercise.  I think that motivation is very individual.  For me, it has been to make it fun but also value it as time to think, clear my mind, solve problems, process issues, tune into my body and love the way it feels to move, and just a special time for myself.  I think the key is to DO IT.  Just like Nike says “Do It” and continue to do it even when you don’t feel like it.  I know that if I lace up my shoes, that I’m going for it.  Sometimes I put off lacing my shoes because I know that it is a no give once I do.  I always remember the feeling I have after I’ve worked out.  It is like none other.  If you exercise regularly, even for a few days, you create a moment that will keep you going and just DO IT.

Give yourself a non-food reward.  Set a goal.  If you exercise a certain number of days per week for a month, give yourself a reward.  Something that you consider a treat.  It could be a massage, a new outfit, new songs on your MP3 or iPod, go to a movie.  Anything that is a treat and brings you joy.  Don’t turn to food, turn to your tennis shoes!  You’ll be very glad that you did.

The results from exercise can take time.  Instant gratification is what many of us want when it comes to exercising.  Remember the saying that anything worth having is worth working for.  Same with exercise.  Many times people want the reward without putting in the time, energy and effort.  Make an investment in yourself with exercise and a life of activity.  It is an investment that will never go down with the stock market and will provide dividends every day in big and small ways.

Believe In Yourself,
Cathy, CLC
Certified Life Coach, Weight Loss Surgery Coach
Certified Back On Track Facilitator