Physical Wellness Part 1: Healing Our Relationship With Joyfully Moving Our Bodies

For years at jobs past, whenever the conversation came up around planning a wellness event focused on Physical Wellness, ideas were usually centered upon some type of exercise, healthy eating, or something that just served as a reminder that my body does not fit into what we stereotypically think of when we say “are you taking care of your physical wellness?” *Note that I am not saying these are not important aspects of our wellness, stay with me* More times than not, a hike or movement-centered event we planned was outside of my physical limitations and even though I was an athlete my entire life through college, I found myself consistently on the sidelines. (Note: Invisible disability is a topic for another time.)

When you think of taking care of your physical wellness, my hope is that you will be open to seeking what fills your cup, what nourishes your body, and what adds peace to your life. 

In college, I had a sports career-ending injury that required three surgeries at the time, one that left me using crutches for over 6 months and not being fully weight bearing again for over 9 months. Not only this, but every single way I knew how to move my body was upended. I have had multiple negotiations with surgeons over the past 20 years, trying to convince them to allow me to continue to participate in physical activities that now carry potential debilitating physical consequences- even though I did convince one doctor to approve me playing one game of HORSE, but only once and absolutely “NO” jumping or pivoting or running. When I think about this, it illuminates how we can get so focused on fitting ourselves into moving our bodies in a specific manner rather than finding ways that bring us joy as we move our bodies.

Joyful movement. Take a moment for that. This has never come easily for me, maybe you share the sentiment? What does it mean to you to take care of your body? More often than not, when I would be working with a college-aged client and they reported feeling overwhelmed, degrees of anxiousness, and sleep disturbances, I would ask them, “Have you had any water today? How about breakfast? How many hours in the library yesterday?” 9 times out of 10, this was met with a laugh and reflection of neither, and too many to admit. We would get up, get a glass of water, and a snack of preference from the office, and continue our conversation.  

Physical Wellness is coming in parts because creating space to be thoughtful and reflective of what would work for each of us individually is the goal. Take some time to think about how you would choose to move your body if joy and peace were the goals. Are there feelings lingering underneath easily accessible conscious awareness about exercise, nutrition, or sleep that you are holding? Are you transitioning from one phase of life to another and continuing to keep yourself up to the standards and abilities of a younger or more able version of you? Has a chronic illness or injury impacted what is within your limitations? Have your interests, passions, or availability shifted?

I look forward to finding deeper and more meaningful ways to move together in joy. 

Until next time, take good care.