As I’ve gone through several weeks practicing Shaolin exercises and strengthening my body, I’ve pondered many times what exercise means to me. Multiple questions automatically pop up.
- Is it a a way to lose weight?
- Do I want to have big muscles?
- Do I want a “bikini body”?
- Do I want to be a specific size?
The list could go on and on, nevertheless I don’t think they are the right questions for me. I haven’t weighed myself since. . . maybe 2016 and I hate swimming. . . so. . . what is it I’m looking for?
I’ve tried HIIT workouts and going to the gym. I used to run 2 miles a day, even late at night although I don’t actually like running all that much. But these type of exercises no longer satisfy me.
I think what it comes down to is INTENTION. Since I did my yoga training and continued to search for mindful practices throughout the world I’ve realized exercises aren’t as important as moving and training the body so it can support and connect in a healthy way.
The way I described it to my mom was like this. I’d rather do Qigong, Yoga, or Martial Arts practices that I know are setting a steady foundation for my future than break my body being a certain size or fitness level.
It took me quite awhile to realize this about myself. I’ve always been interested in staying fit and being healthy but I never stopped to REALLY consider WHY I wanted to do it. That is why intention and mindfulness is so important.
I’m grateful to my younger 11 and 12 year old self for deciding she wanted to set herself on a healthy path. I’m somewhat sorry she had to endure track, cross country, basketball, weights and various other things before she could find something more sustainable.
But that is how life is. We learn through trial and error what works for us and the type of life we want to live. For me, I want to train physically in such a way I understand the universal benefits to my mind, body, and soul.
Hope you are having a great day whoever you are! See you again.
From the Perspective of an Old Soul 