How to get back in shape: with balance

Here we go again. In September, just like on the first of January or the first of June, the pressures of bikini season and new resolutions make us feel overwhelmed. We want to eat healthy, go to the market and buy only seasonal vegetables, save money, travel, build muscle, go to the gym, get back in shape... whatever that means. We have a thousand ideas, and as the stress of life resuming, between work and university, overwhelms us (even if we're motivated by the noblest intentions), we risk being crushed by (our own and society's) unrealistic expectations for autumn, especially when it comes to physical form. Here are some tips and reflections on approaching the gym (or any new physical activity) with balance, calm, and realistic expectations.

Getting back in shape, but take it easy

Maybe we're not feeling great after all the fried fish we ate by the sea, or maybe we just want to trust our bodies again because between a dive off the rocks and a mountain hike, we realized we've lost some strength and endurance. Perhaps we simply overdid it with sunset drinks. There's nothing wrong with that, it happens, especially when you live a mostly sedentary life the rest of the year and vacations are the only time to unwind. What matters is to be constructive and not destructive, not feeling too guilty and thinking we didn't deserve that relaxation. The best approach here is one of realism, balance, and kindness towards ourselves.

@yourpaincoach Nurturing your body through gentle movement + touch is one way you can help your nervous system feel safe. You drop out of your head & into your body to pay attention to what feels good & attend to any emotions that are present. The intention is, that after practicing these tools, you will feel much more grounded, relaxed and present. Behind the scenes, you are turning on the resting state in your nervous system which can lower chronic symptoms & make you feel more comfortable in your body

How often should you go to the gym?

Before starting at the gym, whether it's weight training, machines, or a specific course like Pilates, boxing, or posture training, make sure to calculate everything. What are your expectations? How do you fit this time into your busy week? Do you have any pre-existing health conditions that make certain activities particularly harmful or painful? Maybe, especially if you're very out of shape, it makes sense to start with something softer and then ramp up later. What are your goals? Weight loss or muscle gain? Why do you want what you want? We recommend talking to a dietitian or a nutrition coach, a personal trainer, or anyone who can help you better understand your needs and goals. Enthusiasm is great, but don’t be reckless!

@inclusivemovement You have come to the right place if you have mobility limitations and are looking for gentle at-home workouts. Click our link to find which resource suits you and get moving better today! #beginnerworkout #beginnerfitnesstips #fitnessforbeginners #workoutsforbeginners #easyworkout CAN'T STOP THE FEELING! (from DreamWorks Animation's "TROLLS") - Justin Timberlake

Staying active is important, but don't make it an obsession

In short, the key is balance and control, so as not to slip into obsessive behaviors that can be harmful, even on a subconscious level. Knowing your body, your limits, your tendencies, and your little quirks is a good first step in this new adventure with physical exercise and the gym, but also in life in general. Don’t be afraid to take an extra rest day (and always take at least one a week!) and increase your calorie intake to give yourself energy. If you find yourself slipping into negative thoughts about your body or your relationship with food, ask for help from a therapist, your family, and your friends. And we'll see you in January, feeling so good (mentally first and physically later) that you won’t even need new resolutions.