8 Simple Ways to Get Moving and Improve Your Well-Being

Today started off just like any other day for me. I had everything planned, as I always do, and my tasks were already laid out to keep me on track for a productive day. Being a planner is my way of being in control and ready for whatever the day throws at me.

But then, out of nowhere, something happened that completely threw me off. Someone else’s behavior triggered me, and I could already sense my frustration escalating and my anger ready to erupt.

At that moment, my mood just took a nosedive, and I felt like my carefully constructed plans were crumbling.

The old me would have let these emotions spiral, reacting impulsively and letting the negativity ruin my entire day.

But now, I handle things differently. I’ve learned to be mindful and focus on the present moment. When frustration hits and emotions start to overwhelm me, I pause, take deep breaths, calm myself down, and give myself a moment to process.

I analyze the thoughts that are causing my feelings of frustration. Then, I plan a constructive way forward. For me, that means taking action. And the best way to shift my mood in my experience is to get moving, and exercise is my go-to fix.

So, instead of allowing my emotions to consume me, I decided to take action. I slipped into my workout clothes, laced up my running shoes, put on some upbeat music, and headed out for a run.

In the past, I used to feel like I had no control over my emotions. My inner voice would label me as overly emotional and reactive. My boiling anger and frustrations tend to take over, leaving me reacting like a child in the middle of a tantrum, hurling my emotions at others.

It’s as if all that pent-up rage has nowhere else to go, forcing its way out and leaving me feeling like I’ve lost control, letting my emotions get the best of me.

Now, I’ve learned to handle those emotions and consciously choose my responses to difficult situations. I choose to take action, rather than allowing a small setback to ruin my entire day.

The impact of exercise on my mental health has been significant. Each time I move my body—whether it’s walking, running, or strength training—I feel an immediate boost and feel so much better. It’s amazing how it can lift my spirits and change the course of my day.

Exercise has become more than just a physical activity; it’s crucial for my mental and emotional well-being.

Living on this island has given me a unique opportunity to connect with nature, through activities like running and walking, and the benefits have been more than I ever anticipated.

As moms, our lives are filled with endless responsibilities, and finding time to do some kind of physical activity can seem impossible. But trust me, it doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. My run and quick swim only took me about 40 minutes, and it was all worth it.

In the grand scheme of things, 40 minutes is only a small fraction of the 12 hours we have in a day. It’s incredible how such a brief investment can lead to such a big improvement in your mood and well-being.

So, if you’re feeling overwhelmed, Mama, here are some simple, enjoyable ways to stay active and nurture your mental wellness:

1. Morning Stretches: Start your day with gentle stretches. They help wake up your muscles, improve circulation, and enhance flexibility. Even doing quick stretches while the kids are asleep or during a work break can make a difference.

2. Daily Walks: Try to fit in a 10-minute walk whenever you can—whether it’s early in the morning, during a quick break, or around your neighborhood. It’s a simple way to get moving and clear your mind.

3. Take the Stairs: Choose the stairs over the elevator. It’s a small change that gets your heart pumping and adds a bit of cardio to your routine.

4. Short Workouts: Look for 10-15 minute (or more) workouts online or through a fitness app. These brief sessions can be fun and effective.

5. Play a Sport You Love: Engage in an activity you enjoy—such as running, swimming, or playing tennis. When exercise feels like fun, it’s much easier to stick with it.

6. Active Play with Kids: Turn playtime into a workout by playing games like tag, hide-and-seek, or dancing around the living room. It’s a great way to stay active and bond with your children.

7. Household Chores: Make chores more dynamic by incorporating lunges, squats, or calf raises while you clean. What might seem like a mundane task becomes a chance to exercise.

8. Family Walks or Bike Rides: Enjoy the outdoors with your family by going on walks or bike rides together. It’s a wonderful way to stay active and connect with loved ones.

When I made the decision to go for that run, I didn’t think too much about it. I just took the first step—put on my workout clothes and headed out. I knew it will have an amazing impact, and the positive effects stayed with me throughout the day. My mood lifted, I felt motivated, and the morning’s frustrations faded into the background.

Exercise has become my tool for maintaining both physical fitness and emotional stability. It has transformed my perspective on life, providing me with control over my emotions and actions, and enhancing my overall well-being.

So, let’s make movement a part of our lives, Mama. Let’s use it to empower ourselves and transform our days for the better.

Incorporating exercise into our routine isn’t just about staying fit; it’s about uplifting ourselves and nurturing our spirit. It’s a simple yet profound way to elevate your mood and show yourself some love.

Make time for movement, and witness how it enriches your life and enhances your overall happiness and well-being.