Exercise is like a steamy love affair for some of us. In the beginning, we are enthusiastic and excited about something new. Our palms sweat and our heart rate goes up. We show up with dedication and vigor. We get flushed easily. Then, things change. We make excuses for not showing up. We don’t see enough change. Frustration and disinterest set in.
We need to “marry” our dedication to exercise. When things get difficult, you have to persevere and be loyal. Change only happens with dedication and hard work. Just like in a long a happy marriage you must work to make it last. You must love unconditionally.
“The first duty of love is to listen.” Paul Tillich. Listen to your body. It is always telling you something. Start off slowly and give your body some time to adjust.
“Commitment is the secret to lasting love.” Kishan S. Chauhan. Find a friend to exercise with and commit to always showing up. It is always good practice in life to make commitments and keep them.
“Where there is love there is life.” Mahatma Ghandi. If you learn to truly love your exercise routine, your life will electrify along with your heart, body, and mind.
“Love can heal, love can console, love can strengthen, and yes, love can make change.” Somaly Mam. Nothing happens on the path of least resistance. The amount your body heals, strengthens, and changes depends on the effort you put in.
“Intense love does not measure, it just gives.” Mother Teresa. The rewards of loving your body and the routine of keeping it healthy will be limitless and without any bounds.
Don’t approach exercise as if it is a fleeting affair. Commit! Make exercise a priority, reassess your needs often, say no to negativity and the idea of perfection, have fun and don’t keep score! Most of all believe in the power of LOVE.
