Perhaps it is because I have always been relatively healthy, but fitness is usually low on my list of priorities–if not last.
Exercise and I didn’t always have such a bumpy relationship. Growing up, I was always involved in some kind of sport (whether or not I possessed the necessary talent is another matter entirely.). But the most demanding of my athletic endeavors was high school swimming. Three days a week, I woke up at 4:30AM to make 5am practice; afternoon practices were followed by weight training. I was, without a doubt, the healthiest I had ever been in my entire life.
During my senior year, I decided that I wasn’t passionate enough about swimming to continue. I had more free time to pursue my true passions, and I took what I thought was a well-needed break from vigorous exercise.
Looking back, I realize that this is when I started to view exercise as a chore.
I’m now in my twenties, but not much has changed. I still struggle to roll out of bed, or get off of the couch, or pause an episode Friends in exchange for a yoga video.
I know that my current habits will likely affect my overall health in the future–but it is not difficult to gain knowledge. Think about it: how many times have we all heard that exercise can reduce stress and increase energy?

Turning that knowledge into action…well, that’s the real challenge.
But I know that it isn’t impossible. Drew lifts weights almost every day; when I asked him how he stays motivated, he simply shrugged and said that he always feels better after working out.
When I work out, I kind of hate myself and feel like throwing up.

Then, I found something incredible: Bad Witch Workout. Gala Darling and Garnett Strother have created a free seven-day fitness challenge for anyone beginning their fitness journey–and I loved it so much that I bought the Starter Pack. While I’m still struggling to do the workouts regularly, this program has worked wonders. The community is amazingly supportive, and I’ve even met a few friends along the way!
To supplement Bad Witch Workout, I plan on practicing yoga more often. Yoga With Adriene has been my go-to workout resource for years; unfortunately, I tend to go on a three-day streak and stop.
Through yoga, Bad Witch Workout, and a bit of soul-searching, I’ve realized that I need to find my own source of motivation. Some people just know they feel awesome after a good workout. That’s wonderful, and I admire anyone who knows that exercise is worth it–but I feel awesome when I eat junk food or hit the snooze button multiple times. So, I’ve settled on a new mantra:
When I exercise, I am taking care of myself; therefore, exercise is an act of self-love. When I honor my body, I am honoring God.
I may never be a bonafide fitness junkie. However, I can always make my physical health a priority….even if it is just making sure I drink enough water and get enough sleep.
What are some of your favorite workouts? How do you prioritize your health? Let me know in the comments or on Twitter!
Very interesting view! I have felt this kind of hapiness a lot of times
and it really boosts my mood everytime! Imagine now to add dancing to it! You could check ”Dancise”, a program based on bodyweight exercises and dancing providing massive calorie burning even from a single class!
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