Roadblocks & Detours

On my journey to overall better health and wellness, there have already been some roadblocks. Our circumstances and our lives can prove to be quite challenging when on a quest to be peaceful and healthful every day.

This got me thinking. What happens when we are on a literal journey somewhere and we approach a closed street? Well…we have two choices. We stop and decide that we are not going to continue on the ride, using it as an excuse to go back home. Or…we stay committed to the finding a detour to get us to where we were headed, even if it takes us a little out of the way or a bit longer than we had planned.

Stop using your roadblocks as excuses. Commit to the journey and instead of getting discouraged, discover new paths. Here are a few common roadblocks and the detours you can follow:

• TIREDNESS

  You didn’t sleep well. You were up with the baby/kids. You worked late. These are all valid hurdles. However, exercise can actually provide you more energy than sleep. When you exercise, your body produces endorphins, or “feel good” neurotransmitters. Also, physical activity stimulates the release of dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin. These brain chemicals play an important part in regulating your mood.

• TIME

  It can feel like a Herculean feat to try to accomplish all we need to within a day. Our lengthy list of responsibilities is there waiting for us from the moment we wake. But, if we break down a 24 hour day, 30 minutes of exercise is a tiny fraction. Pay attention to what you do throughout the day, and you’ll likely surprise yourself how/where you can find 30 minutes to put towards your overall health and wellbeing.

• TEDIOUSNESS

  For many, exercise can feel boring or like a chore. Nobody will be motivated or committed to do something so tedious on a daily basis. If you find yourself at this roadblock, it’s important that you look for ways to move your body that are enjoyable. Find a friend who will commit to walking or a workout class with you. You can also watch TV, listen to a podcast or read while using a stationary bike, elliptical or treadmill, as long as your workout is still challenging. Finally, The Heart Foundation recommends, “Make a list of exercises you don’t like and then a list of activities you might be willing to try.  Work your way down the list until you find one or several that you enjoy. If you enjoy what you are doing, you will be more apt to continue.”

What are some of your roadblocks and how do you navigate them? Share them here or in my FB group and let’s all help each other along this journey!