The Importance of Moving Your Body for Mental and Physical Health
Life can often feel like you are spinning plates on poles, or a juggling act. Between family responsibilities, work, and the endless to-do lists, finding time for myself often falls to the bottom of the list. But over the years, I’ve learned one thing: taking care of my body is non-negotiable. Moving my body, even for just a few minutes each day, has been a game-changer for both my mental and physical health.
Here’s why it matters—and how even a busy person can make it happen
Why Moving Matters
1. Boosts Mental Health
Exercise releases endorphins, the “feel-good” chemicals that improve your mood and reduce stress. On days when I feel overwhelmed, a short walk or a few stretches can help clear my mind. It’s a natural way to lift my spirits and improve mental clarity.
2. Improves Physical Health
Staying active as we age is crucial for maintaining strength, flexibility, and balance. Moving regularly helps with joint pain, improves heart health, and can even boost energy levels. It’s not about intense workouts but staying consistent and keeping our bodies in motion.
3. Creates “Me Time”
As a mom, it’s easy to lose ourselves in the needs of our family. Exercise is one of the ways I reclaim a little time for myself, even if it’s just 10 minutes. It’s a reminder that my health matters, too. And when I prioritize my health, everyone wins.
Low-Impact, Quick Movement Options
If you’re like me, finding long stretches of time to work out isn’t always realistic. But the good news is that even 10-15 minutes of movement can make a difference! Here are a few low-impact options that fit into a busy schedule:
1. Walking
A brisk 10-15 minute walk around the block is one of the simplest ways to get moving. If you’re pressed for time, you can even break it up into smaller segments throughout the day. Walking clears my head, gives me energy, and helps with digestion after meals. It really can be as simple as taking a trip around the block, the apartment complex or if you are ambitious maybe the local park.
2. Chair Yoga
This gentle form of yoga can be done while sitting in a chair, making it perfect for days when you want something light. In just 10 minutes, you can improve flexibility, reduce tension, and calm your mind. Try a few stretches like seated forward bends or side stretches to release tightness in your shoulders and back. If you need more ideas, I suggest you definitely look into wall pilates or somatic yoga, it can be very beneficial to your overall well being.
3. Stretching Routine
A quick stretching session before bed or in the morning can do wonders for your body. This is probably one of the easiest things to do in the morning for me. Focus on areas that tend to get tight, like your neck, back, and hamstrings. Stretching helps improve flexibility and range of motion while relaxing your mind. I remind my children to do stretches as well to help with their aches and pains and also to feel better in general.
4. Bodyweight Strength
Even if you don’t have equipment, you can get a great workout with just your body. Try squats, wall push-ups, and seated leg lifts. These simple moves strengthen muscles and improve balance without putting too much strain on your joints. I personally purchased a kettlebell and do kettlebell swings at least 3 times a week along with some wall push-ups.
5. Tai Chi or Martial Arts
This ancient practice involves slow, deliberate movements and deep breathing. It’s a fantastic way to increase flexibility, improve balance, and reduce stress. The flowing motions can be done in 10 minutes, leaving you feeling centered and calm. You can also look into a class at your local martial arts studio. Tae Kwon Do or Brazilian Jui Jitsu is not just for self defense, it’s actually great for movement and can be enjoyed by the whole family.
Make It Part of Your Routine
The most important thing is to find what works for you and stick with it. Or you can mix it up to prevent monotony, but it does need to become “routine” Here are a few tips to help you make moving your body part of your daily routine:
- Set a timer: If you’re short on time, set a timer for 10 minutes and do what you can.
- Incorporate it into daily tasks: Walk while your kids are at practice, stretch while watching TV, or do some squats while waiting for dinner to cook.
- Prioritize it: Just like any other important task, schedule movement into your day. Even 10 minutes is better than nothing!
Final Thoughts
As moms, we give so much of ourselves to others, but we need to remember that our health is just as important. My mother didn’t like to stop moving. If she stood or sat still for too long she said she would get “stoved-up” meaning she was stiff and achy. She knew she needed to get up and move around to prevent that unpleasant feeling. Moving your body daily, even for just a few minutes, can improve both your mental and physical well-being. So, let’s make a commitment to prioritize ourselves, one small step at a time.
Your body—and mind—will thank you! Now get up and get moving!!
Mothersense and Miscellaneous 