How do I lean on my strengths, preferences and tendencies to engage in the best activities that give me life? That support my priority to love, live, laugh?
What are the best activities for the seasons of the year.? We are in winter, and I have been enjoying morning walks on my beach. I do this on as many days as possible. I love the sunrises and the sunsets. The beauty of creation on my doorstep.
Science tells us that being active can boost our mood and decrease risks for different conditions. Some of the conditions are heart disease, type 2 diabetes, hypertension and possibly some cancers. This is powerful.
I have found movement of any kind helps me in terms of keeping my depression at bay. Movement has helped so much that I have been medication free for a long time. I am grateful that it works for me.
This week we explored activities in terms of a matrix that really takes into account our strengths, preferences and tendencies. While the options given were in the contact of 'This or That'... sometimes I found myself in the middle of the road when it comes to choosing 'This or that'.
We explored do we want to feel calm or energized after our movement activity. I want to be calm on the inside--my mindset. Energized in my vein's. I like to have the feeling of dancing ants in my bloodstream. Walking gives me this experience, kayaking and rowing do too.
Do I prefer outside activities or inside activities? I am learning to dress for the weather so my preference of being outside is realized more and more. I love kayaking in the spring, summer and fall. Walking all year around, being functionally fit so I can mow my lawn, stain my log home, take care of things that need taking care of. Somethings are an inside job like rowing. I utilize my ring rows to practice squats and lunges. These help me with my functional fitness. However, while they are not always enjoyable I sure do feel strong after completing them.
We were asked if we prefer flying solo or with a group. Well I am really contemplating this. Most of my life I have had to do things solo. Most of the time I feel safer doing things solo. However, does that really answer the question of if I prefer solo? I will contemplate this. What I do know is I enjoyed being part of a Crossfit community. I really enjoy spending quality time with a few people where we can interact and laugh. Walking my beach with them is a bonus. I also enjoy the company of my own soul.
Weights/machines vs. no equipment necessary. I need my tools to do the job. I need my kayak, paddles, wheels, life jacket etc to go enjoy time on the water. I need my rower to row. I have a walking pad and weights. I love putting on my stereo and cranking the music up and moving to music. I am open to exploring new things, taking risks to fail and try once again.
Moving for me is essential. My goal is to be as functionally fit as possible for as long as possible in my life. I would love to live my life out in my home and not need care.
What about you? What are your strengths, preferences and tendencies when it comes to movement?
I felt myself moving along with you in this lovely post. Such a joy to read.
When I wake up in the morning I will know you are out there in the blistering cold enjoying the heck out of your day😀
wow this is powerful!!! thank you!! so beautiful!!!!
Hi Noreen, I love this post and I also love when you put your thoughts into words. Love the Footprints in the Snow by the way! Can't wait to read your next blog post! Luvs ya! 😘
Great post. I love being outside to exercise,walking kayaking,cycling but as you have found indoor gym workouts can provide you with strength and a sense of community. I enjoy both solo and community activities. Solo activity can bring you a sense of peace
You are an inspiration. Love you 🥰