3 Minute Read: Incorporating Movement into Your Routine Using SMART Goals
Now that we've explored the benefits of exercise for mental health in an earlier blog post, you may be wondering how to incorporate more regular intentional movement into your daily routine. Here are some general tips to help you get started:
Find an activity you enjoy: Whether it's dancing, swimming, cycling, or hiking, choose an activity that you genuinely enjoy. This will make it easier to stick to your exercise routine and make it a regular part of your life.
Start small: If you're new to exercise, start with small, manageable goals. Ask for help from a trained professional!
Make it social: Exercise with a friend or join a group fitness class to make your workouts more enjoyable and social.
Listen to your body: Pay attention to how your body feels during and after exercise. If you experience pain or discomfort, it's important to take a break and consult with a healthcare professional if needed.
Next, we will apply SMART goals in a therapeutic way:
S: Specific - Identify what activity, how long, how often, and how you will make it happen! The goal can’t just be to “go to the gym” because that could mean that I just walk inside, turn around, and go back home. Address potential barriers before they happen.
M: Measurable - How will you know when the goal is accomplished?
A: Attainable - You will not run a marathon overnight. You cannot take one yoga class and do a headstand. Set a realistic goal for yourself, and then build on your success. Remember, the point in adding exercise is to improve our general wellbeing and mental health. The difference between where we ‘should’ be (unachievable) and where we are (realistic) is how awful we feel about ourselves.
R: Relevant - Why do you care? Dig deep. What will change about your life if you sleep better or have more energy? What will be different? If the goal is clear, then the other parts of this goal setting activity become easier and more flexible.
T: Time-Bound - Prepare for this particular season of life. If you are already juggling 100 things, please don’t expect yourself to go to a 90 minute hot yoga class daily for the rest of your life. Set a realistic timeline for yourself.