You may have heard that mindful movement outdoors can increase your energy, release stress, and reconnect you to your body, but having heard of it isn’t the same as doing. If you’ve found yourself stuck in the same cycle of “I should move more”, but never quite follow through, you’re not alone.

Behind that resistance are subconscious mindset blocks that feel logical, but quietly hold you back. The good thing about it? They’re not permanent, and you can change them. With a few intentional shifts, you can reframe these thoughts and create a whole new relationship with movement, one that fits beautifully into even the busiest day.

Simple Mindset Shifts to Move Your Body Without Pressure

Current belief: “I don’t have time.”
Reframe: “I always have time for what matters to me.”

We all have 24hrs every day. It’s a matter of priorities, and yes, sometimes, time might be tight, but then gently remind yourself that you, too, are important and deserve some time in your day. Your movement practice doesn’t need to be a full hour long, even 15-20mins can make a difference.

Current belief: “I’m worried what others are going to think of me.”
Reframe: “I’m practicing self-expression, not performance.”

Working out or dancing in public comes with people watching what you’re doing (whether alone or in a group). This is a great practice to look inward and reconnect with how you feel. Every stretch or movement is an act of you actually honoring your body. Also: most people are curious and maybe even a little jealous to see you’re out here doing your thing and are not letting fears standing in your way!

Current belief: “I always forget to workout and move.”
Reframe: “I make movement a priority every day.”

Building new habits may take a bit of time, but most importantly, make sure you have some initial reminders, so you don’t forget. This can be as simple as a sticky note, a block in your calendar, or a reminder on your phone. Move your body first thing in the morning, before your conscious mind comes up with all the excuses, pair it with something you’re already doing, such as making yourself a tea, or right when you come home from work.

There’s no right or wrong way to make space for moving your body this summer. Make it work for you.

When you identify these mental barriers, the excuses, the reasons “why you can’t do it”, mindful outdoor movement can transform from “nice idea” into a non-negotiable part of your daily healthy habits.

Now put your fav movement clothes on. Step outside. Make it work. And watch your inner peace and mental balance grow (and glow a bit more!) every day.

If you want to move with us at Ecstatic Dance in Winterthur, click below to find all of our upcoming events:

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