5 Ways I Love to Move My Body
Written By Caty Neeser
If you’ve read my last article, you’ll know that I have struggled with my relationship with exercise for some time now. I was the girl who miraculously managed to skip the mile for the entirety of middle school and who quit basketball because running lines was my least favorite pastime. After going to college, exercise turned into a punishment: a punishment for not moving enough, for eating too much “junk” food, for my body's natural change in appearance… I envied those who found relief in working out, because for me, exercise had always been a source of stress rather than a release.
In efforts to heal, I decided to detox from working out altogether; the mental toll it was taking on me far outweighed any physical health benefits. This break lasted over a year and served me well, but I did eventually come to crave a more active lifestyle for myself again. This time it wasn’t because I wanted to alter my physique, but rather because I wanted to reap the magical benefits so many claimed to experience, such as increased energy, elevated mood, reduced stress, etc. Given my nearly lifelong poor relationship with exercise the journey was, and continues to be, a challenge but the situation has drastically improved from what it was just a few years ago.
So how have I managed to get myself up and moving after a much-needed hiatus? First, I had to realize that this new attempt could not look anything like it had before. I would not be following along to 30-minute core workout videos nor convincing myself I like to run and signing up for a 10k. I would not be going to the gym to lift weights, actually I probably would not be going to the gym at all. I know many people find joy in these things, but my truth is that I simply hate them. Instead, I began to find and partake only in movements that I genuinely love to do. Now I try to do things just because they’re fun and it's just an added benefit that it's exercise.
To some this may seem incredibly simple, but for me it feels like I hacked the system ㅡ the system being my sometimes-problematic brain. That being said, I thought I would share what I’ve been doing on the off chance it reaches someone who’s in the same boat.
Here are 5 ways I’ve been moving my body that have allowed me to practice an active lifestyle in a way that I actually enjoy:
Rollerblading: The second I moved to Spain and saw the beautifully paved sidewalk that runs alongside the beach, I knew I would be learning to blade one way or another ㅡ and that's exactly what I did. Several bruises and scars later, I love nothing more than a blading session on a sunny day while listening to my 2010 pop music playlist.
Pole Dancing: Last summer my friend told me about a deal at a local pole dancing studio, 4 classes for $40. I had always wanted to try it myself so I signed up immediately. Since then, I have absolutely fallen in love with the sport/art. It is such a unique way to move your body and requires some serious strength. Plus, the community it attracts is unmatched. The energy of the studio leaves me feeling not only strong, but empowered and supported by some bad ass women.
Seattle Studio: Raven Studios Seattle | Pole Dance Fitness & Aerial Arts Classes & Private Parties
Almeria Studio: Trainup pole & fitness - 04230 Huércal de Almería | Eversports
Team Sports: Like many, I played sports my entire childhood, but that all came to an abrupt halt when I went to college. Fast forward 5 years later in Spain, I was invited to play volleyball with a group that meets weekly. I left the first practice literally beaming with joy and it made me wonder why I had ever quit. We dedicate 10+ years to something growing up and then one day decide we won’t ever do it again? Why??? I had no idea how much I missed it.
Stretching/Yoga Session: I’ve dabbled in yoga over the years and thoroughly enjoy it but haven't always had the funds or motivation to go to classes consistently. This year I have tried to just make daily stretching sessions more of a priority. I will turn off the lights, light a candle, blast relaxing music, and maybe even eat a little brownie (if you catch my drift). I don’t follow videos but rather try and feel what my body is telling me it needs. On days that I don’t want to do the whole production, I will try to fit it in wherever I can; when I’m not doing anything at work, while watching a show, or just lying in my bed.
Follow @starlikemovement on Instagram for some great inspiration and content about mindful movement.
Dancing: I put in the pods, queue my favorite songs, and literally just dance in my room. Idk about yall but this was actually really hard for me to start. It's not often that I let myself completely loose and dance however I want, and I mean however I want. I’m positive I look absolutely insane, but it elevates my mood almost without fail. And yes, depending on the intensity of the sesh I will be sweating. Try it try it try it.
It is through these movements that I feel I have finally cracked the code on why some people actually like to exercise. Each gives me a “high” that I find myself genuinely craving time and time again. While my life will likely never include weightlifting or running, I have managed to find what works for me and for that I am content.
Do you get active in ways that maybe aren’t considered conventional? Share them with me!
Instagram: @catyneeser
Email: catyneeser@gmail.com
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