Topic Tuesday // Exercise as Therapy // Tues. 19 June 7pm AEST

For me the best motivation tool was always find exercise you actually enjoy. Don't go for a run if you dread running, try swimming or dance or tennis

@Former-Member I have started writing a plan for each week. I find if I do this I stick to it and I can see what I have to do, I put a red tick next to what I get done when I do it. As each week goes I add a little extra , for example one week I might go on a ten min walk every 2nd day then the following week I’ll do it for 15 mins.

I really like that staged approach @melq83. It can help to increase exercise gradually rather than getting caught up in that all or nothing mindset which often ends up keeping us feeling stuck.

On Motivation

There’s this myth out there that says that we have to wait for that feeling of motivation to come along before we take action. Did you know, the feeling of motivation actually tends to arise after we’ve already started taking action? Imagine someone training for a marathon. Most people don’t set out every day feeling inspired to run. However, once they take action and get into a routine of training, they start to feel more motivated, and it gets easier and easier over time. So in that way, the ‘feeling’ of motivation actually arises through routine. What’s one step you can take, no matter how small, towards doing what you want to do?

Thanks @queercat I turn 50 next year, feels like an old 50.

I'm often the only man in one of my classes.

Women seem more motivated to do yoga, at least where I go.

Adge

@Former-Member

So what I need is a weekly plan or daily plan. Write down my plan so I can see it.

Then try to walk for say 10 mins then slowly increase to 45 mins.

But im worried I'll get anxious. But I can always go home if I do.

I need to lose weight so apart from not eating very much exercise is the only way to help.

@Adge I try to do a little bit of yoga most mornings, but no classes. It's a big commitment to keep going.

Wow @Former-Member Greater positive social events.

I never heard of that one...

Adge

Getting my weights into the house. They're next door at a neighbor's. I'm going to get them tomorrow I think.

Taking small steps sounds like a great approach @BlueBay. You will likely feel anxious at first but over time it will get a little easier. And it's always good to hold in mind what you said there too "It's ok if i feel anxious, as i can always go home if i need to". It might be useful to focus on health rather than weight and shape too as something getting caught up in anxiety about our weight can complicate our relationship with exercise and actually be counterproductive for our mental health. Might be worth writing up a plan with your doctor or psychologist during your next session so they can support you with it too 😊