My morning stretching ritual CONTINUES TO develop. Today I’m sharing what it CURRENTLY involves – in the hope that I can show you just how accessible this sort of exErcise can be to ADD TO YOUR DAY
“You are only as young as your spine is flexible.” – Joseph Pilates
We all know that movement and exercise is important for our health. Human beans are designed to move.
But, when you suffer from a chronic illness (or more); when your adrenals are compromised and your hormones are out of whack; when sleep is somethimng you don’t get enough of – well, this movement thing can be a bit of a challenge.
I know. Believe me, I know.
Here’s the thing, though – exercise is actually essential when it comes to regulating your hormones, ensuring your immune system and central nervous system are healthy, and it contributes to a healthy gut microbiome. Exercise is a BIG part of getting yourself healthy.
But, as with most things on this Autoimmune Protocol (AIP) caper, exercise is a very personal thing.
This is why exercise and movement sit in the RITUALS section of my Wheel of Health.
Because intentionally and mindfully engaging in appropriate movement is good for your health. Because this ‘stuff’ isn’t easy and approaching it by stealth can be helpful. Because, if you’re anything like me, somethimes exercise falls into the ‘too hard basket’ when you’re flaring and feeling especially sh*tty.
Dr Sarah Ballantyne recommends we each aim for at least 150 minutes per week of moderately-intense physical activity. ‘Moderate intensity’ means you’re not going all out. You can still hold a conversation while exercising.
That’s 2 1/2 hours of exercise. Minimum.
I have learned the best way for me to get my exercise quota in is to mix it up…
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The story behind My morning stretching ritual
You may remember reading that one of my goals for 2020 is to create and maintain more rituals around movement and exercise.
I’m busy. You’re busy. We’re all busy.
Creating time and space for exercise takes commitment and personal responsibility.
Late last year I decided enough was enough. It was well past time I created an exercise ritual that involved some accountability. My friend, Erin likes to break her goals into big rocks and little rocks. Exercise and movement is a BIG rock for me.
I undertook a bit of research and found myself a #bloodyfabulous exercise physiologist. Now, I see Rachel from ENVY Sports Science and Fitness twice a week for sessions where we work on increasing my fitness and mobility. (That’s 120 minutes out of my Sarah-recommended 150 minute-weekly minimum).
I’m enjoying myself and I’m feeling better for it.
At my request, the lovely Rachel also put together a 15-20 minute stretching program for me to include in my daily morning ritual. Which I have done. And, I love it.
My stretching program:
- is short enough that I don’t resent the time it takes me to complete it. Sometimes, it’s the little things!
- makes me feel increasingly more limber and flexible. This has happened quickly, too.
- helps get the blood flowing before I start the day. I feel as though I have moved my body – both with my morning perambulation with Bella and with my stretches.
And, it counts towards my goal of moving my body more. Bonus!
Here’s what MY MORNING STRETCHING RITUAL INCLUDES:
Your stretching ritual PROBABLY won’t be exactly the same as my stretching ritual, but I highly recommend finding a ‘Rachel’ FOR your life – so she can work with you on a MORNING stretching ritual that works for you!
IF YOU’D LIKE A LITTLE HELP IN CREATING YOUR MORNING RITUAL, I CAN HELP WITH THAT!
WHY NOT CHECK OUT MY FREE MINI ECOURSE STEPPING YOU THROUGH JUST HOW TO PERSONALISE AND IMPLEMENT A MORNING RITUAL THAT WORKS FOR YOU…
