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Many of my clients come to me with a request to focus on regular exercise. I’d like to share some insights on how exercise can add to your life.

Many tell me they want to exercise, but they don’t know how to get there on a consistent basis. You have probably heard about the physical benefits of exercise. New research is showing that getting fit and staying fit can improve our psychological health as well.

Let’s break it down by starting with the want and move on to the how to.  What is it that you want to accomplish from exercise? What feeling do you want to experience?

Exercise can give our worries a “time-out.” Our minds need a rest too. We can create a time of no stress and no anxiety if we allow for that period of exercise to be ours alone. No phones, no email, no taking care of others. Your priority is YOU during your exercise time. Is a rest for your mind something you want?

When we take a positive step in our life to improve our image, we can gain a feeling of control over our life and our body. It is this sense of confidence that carries into other areas of our lives. If you are starting out an exercise program, learn to appreciate your body for what it is capable of doing. Let go of the self-talk that may come up around how you look now. If you desire that feeling of an improved self-image, keep that want in the forefront of your mind.

Regular, consistent exercise can also create a sense of spirituality. This is adding to the mind and body connection. There are all sorts of methods to achieve this. Your job is to find the one (or more) that works for you. Yoga is popular for this very reason. And it’s not the only way to feel connected to your Self. A walk alone in the beauty of the outdoors (without the headphones) can provide a sense of being one with nature and bring a peaceful feeling to your world.

Start your list of wants. Keep them handy for when it’s time to exercise. How many different ways can consistent exercise bring you closer to your desires?

Now it may be time to figure out what kinds of exercise you like to do. If you push yourself to do something you don’t enjoy, you’ll probably stop doing it rather quickly. This leaves your opportunity to try something you may have never tried before. There are so many different ways to exercise that the possibilities are endless. And if you can find a way that includes breathing fresh outside air, chances are your lungs will thank you even more! The how to begins with finding what it is that your body likes to do. If it is swimming, can you locate a pool with open swim times? If you like to walk, how about a time of day that works best for you and your schedule? If you like to lift weights, where do you want to lift--a club, at home? If you like the company and accountability of others, find a work-out buddy. You may really look forward to a 30-minute walk with a neighbor or good friend or your partner in life!

~Kim~

Copyright © 2005-2007 by Kim Lambert and Dream Catcher Coaching, LLC.