LOVE YOUR BODY THROUGH MOVEMENT

One of the best ways to take care of your mental health as well as physical health is to exercise regularly.

Physical activities not only control your blood sugar levels, improve your heart function, they can also lower your stress levels and tension.

Everyone already knows the benefits of regular exercise. But did you know that finding time to exercise becomes extremely important for you after 50? Because building your strength and flexibility is the key to feeling good and keeping your body healthy.

So even if going to the gym or doing sports has never been your thing… There’s no reason why you shouldn’t start your fitness journey right now.

1. Exercise after 50 might look a little different

So, start small.

You don’t have to jog every morning. Start by making a promise to yourself how many days a week will you try to do some exercise? It can be a walk, yoga, swimming, weights, it's up to you.

It is very important to fall in love with the activities you do and enjoy the process. If you feel like you don’t want to be doing it, it will be a lot harder to stick to your commitment.

Don’t think of exercise as an obligation but rather a fun activity that will make you happier and more relaxed.

Where to start?

If you haven’t been working out for some time, the best thing you can do for yourself is to hire a good coach. And make sure to check in with your GP to see if there’s anything you should be cautious about.

A personal trainer not only will help you with your exercise regimen, but you’ll get your daily dose of motivation.

2. Feeling good

Even though consistency is the key, you don’t have to push yourself to the limit.

Listen to your body and to how you’re feeling. Have you had enough sleep, is anything hurting, are you feeling energized?

If your energy levels are low or you’re not feeling well, consider just stretching or going out for a walk. Exercising when you don’t feel good physically will just put unnecessary stress on your body.

So, be kind to yourself and take care of your body.

3. Connect your mind to your body

Don’t do workouts only with your muscles. You must tune in your brain as well.

When you’re doing crunches, it’s not about how fast you can finish or how many reps you can do. Contract your core and feel the tension in those muscles even before lifting your torso off the ground as you exhale.

The same applies to every exercise. You need to think about the process of your muscles contracting. Listen to your body and be present. Don’t think about anything else.

After you’ve finished your workout don’t just jump right up! Relax, take deep breaths and be thankful. Your body is strong and healthy. Stretch out any tension you’re feeling in your muscles. Slowly inhale. And then exhale.

Feel the endorphins and positive energy, and thank yourself! You’re strong!