Self-Acceptance and Exercise

Many of us, who have been working to iprove our health and fitness, know better than to compare ourselves to others or engage in self-criticism while we’re exercising or anytime.

This feeling could still happen and it can crush our self-esteem and really become a “physical downer.” So what can we do when this “inner critic” shows up, while we’re taking a nice walk in public or in our Senior Fitness Class? If we listen and believe this “inner critic” it can sabotage our efforts. Keep your mind on your movements and focus on your intentions!

If you begin to compare yourself to others, gently remind yourself to be present and focus on what you are doing. If you are looking around, distracting yourself with how much better, or worse, someone else is doing, you’re wasting your workout.

Not only that, you could do yourself actual harm. What do we mean by harm? When we aren’t focused, we won’t be nearly as strong or effective.

In addition, we can make ourselves miserable. Comparing, competing or judging during a workout session or any other time often leads to emotional distress. We’ll also be more prone to injury because we won’t be giving ourselves our full attention.

Another important point is that we might be unintentionally insulting other people by being in their “space” instead of our own. Switch roles for a minute. We wouldn’t want other people to be judging us while we are just trying to get healthier and feel good. The wisdom of “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you” stands out here.

After reminding yourself to stay present, get back in your body by feeling your breath, your muscles, and your intentions for good health. Focus within and let go of all self-judgement about how fit or unfit you feel. This is your body and your life. Do your best to simply accept it. This becomes your inner workout and is also very important for better health, happiness, and longevity.

Enjoy the movements and discover all over again the reasons why we are committed to our health and well-being. We don’t even need to make a list. It’s just good to feel it in our muscles, joints, bones, and our entire body! Keep moving and enjoy yourself!

(Remember: sweat is the cologne of fitness!)

For more information call the Lewis County Senior Health and Fitness at 796-5564.