Action precedes Motivation
Sometimes, when we feel pain or inflammation in our bodies, it makes it hard to get moving!
However, have you ever noticed, though, that after movement, those uncomfortable sensations can subside? This is because a small protein called interleukin 6 is released when you move your muscles! It plays an important role in fighting inflammation by:
~Lowering levels of TFN alpha. This protein triggers inflammation in the body.
~Depressing the signaling effects of Interleukin 1 beta, which also triggers inflammation.
The idea of carving out time for movement can feel overwhelming, especially if it's been a while. Many people find it easiest to start with something short and fun that is going to feel good no matter what, like a walk with a friend or a workout class!
If regular movement is not part of your routines, it can contribute to the difficulty of taking that first step to get up and go. It isn't until we actually get out the door and get going that we realize,
"Oh yeah... this feels good!"
So many times, I have struggled too, and would have to tell myself,
"Just get out the door, and if you want to turn back after 5 minutes, you can."
It gradually got easier and easier, eventually feeling like movement was something I couldn't do without.
I never turned back!
If you need motivation to get going, here are some compelling reasons why to incorporate movement into your day!
~Helps with many forms of cancer
~Improves symptoms of depression, anxiety and stress
~Prevents cardiometabolic diseases, including stroke, diabetes, and high blood pressure
~Enhances musculoskeletal health, including osteoporosis and rheumatoid arthritis
~Movement is the most potent anti-inflammatory signal you can give your body
In my Functional Medicine training, we devoted a remarkable amount of time to the literature research that demonstrates how action precedes motivation.
It's counter-intuitive, right?
We usually think it's the motivation that is what helps us make the choice which is in our own best long-term interest. But the research shows that this is true only once you begin to experience results! Before that, it is all about taking action simply because you've committed to making a specific change in behavior. ⠀⠀⠀⠀
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
When I work with clients, I ask them to do hard things during the period when no results have happened yet, so they have to rely on their commitment to change.
When trying to establish new behaviors before motivation can occur, one fantastic tool is to write down the reason for making the change and place it in a visible location.
Make it as powerful and emotional as possible.
Write it down when you feel discouraged or frustrated and feel like you absolutely have to make a change.
Then refer to it often, in a spot you will see it daily.
Re-read it to help you stay committed to your goal.
As motivation slowly takes over and once you begin to see the results of your efforts, you will be amazed at your drive to continue. You will feel like you can't remember living any other way, especially regarding movement!
Are you ready to begin? I have a program designed for you! If you are ready to get started, I would love to help you experience a clear action plan that will get you the results to gain the motivation to continue!
In health,
Liz