When it comes to managing stress, we must all find our own way. Exercise is a natural path as just the simple action of movement increases all the good hormones and neurotransmitters in the brain. But we need more than just simply putting one foot in front of the other.
If you are a runner, you understand this concept. The first 10 minutes your body is under immense stress and screaming at you to stop. Your body needs time to adjust. It does go into fight or flight mode, but as long as you have worked your way up to running, and take it slow as you begin this process, you should be fine. Once your body adjusts, you find that it is stress-free. You feel lighter. And your mood improves dramatically. You have found your exercise high. This isn’t just found in running, but it is the easiest way to paint the picture for you. When I hike or speed walk, I go through the same process. Mind over matter to get through the torture of the first 10 minutes, and then heaven on earth for the rest of my workout.
When you are in cardio-mode, your body increases the amount of energy that it consumes, meaning you burn more calories. I try and do my first 10,000 steps (remember this is where I am at today – your goal may be 1,000 steps or even as a beginner 500 steps) early in the morning. With at least 30 minutes of good activity, your body remains in this heightened state for 24 hours. So, if you do your cardio every morning, your body is always burning more calories and releasing the good endorphins to help your mood, focus, and stress management. It also helps your joints, bone mass, and muscles and fights neurological and chronic diseases.
A long intro, I know… bear with me! As part of our triad of health (mental well-being, exercise, nutrition) you can eat all the right food, and still be unhealthy. So, it is time to find your groove related to exercise.
For those starting out, who are carrying more than 50 extra pounds, I recommend starting out walking. You can walk at any hour, anywhere. Even if you have a small house, circuits aren’t bad. Put on a good book to listen to – one with a great narrator, or some bouncy music you love. You will be surprised at how quickly your time goes.
For those that are fighting that last 10 – 30 pounds, it is time for something a bit more active or a bit more flexible! My exercise routine depends on a LOT of different factors. I practice belly dancing, kickboxing, yoga, pilaties, piyo, and marital arts. Not to mention my hiking, canoeing, kayaking, and other outdoor things. Not all at once – breathe. LOL! You will find yours, as I have actively searched for mine. Depending on the weather, the day, and my mood determines my activity for that day.
I highly recommend martial arts for all. From the child that fights anger, depression, weight gain to the teen with the same issues, to adults with extra around their middle, depression, anxiety, insomnia, brain fog, and a whole host of other issues. Martial arts doesn’t just work one set of muscles repeatedly (running / walking / hiking) it works ALL your muscles. It also teaches discipline, flexibility, and respect for those younger ones needing some structure in their lives. It is incredibly helpful for kids / teens / adults on the Autism spectrum. Certain types are quite repetitive (Tae Kwan Do) others are much more free flowing (Jiu Jitsu). Certain types are primarily competitive (Tae Kwan Do) others are defensive (Hapkido). Each one is different, so think about what you want out of your class. Ability to protect yourself? Competition? Awards? Flexibility? Then consider what you want to learn or get from the class. Do you have issues with people in your space? Do you need to learn to control your movements? Are you clumsy and want to be able to ground yourself? Do you want to be able to protect others?
There are many different reasons and needs, yours will be unique to you. As usual, be very honest. Here were mine 20 years ago when I started: I had two beautiful daughters, and I wanted the ability to protect myself and them in any given situation. I had issues with my personal space because I had been violated. I didn’t want anything that was competitive as I was doing this for me. I spoke with the instructor very candidly about this and the recommendation for me was Hapkido. I loved it! Now, going back, my needs and reasons are vastly different. I no longer have kids at home, but I still wanted the ability to protect myself. I still struggle with people in my space and need to work my way through it. I still don’t want any type of competition. The one thing I struggled with in Hapkido (this is just me) was that everything was so structured, I didn’t feel that I would be able to really perform in a real-world situation. And lastly, I am 20 years older. I need to be as flexible and strong as I can be. So, this time around, Jiu Jitsu is best suited to my needs.
Recommended reading: https://buffalotkd.com/types-of-martial-arts/
More recommended reading: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_martial_arts
You WILL change. As you evolve and grow, you will need different things. Don’t worry about that. Work with what you have today and grow. One day at a time. One step at a time.
Are you scared? You should be. It is something new. I am terrified each time I go in for a variety of reasons, and once the class is going, all my fears and anxiety melt away. The hardest part is going to get the information, signing up, and showing up. Once you do it a couple times, you will know if it is for you or not. If not, fine. Most places give you a week free to determine whether you are suited or not. If not, keep looking. Talk to different dojos. They can help guide you or your child to the best discipline based on your needs.
I challenge you to try something new today. Face those fears and push past them. The world on the other side is magnificent!
Blessings – E