Emotions happen. And for some of us, these emotions can hit hard. When that happens it’s no surprise that exercise is often the last thing on our minds. But sometimes, a little movement is exactly what we need for whatever it is we’re feeling. That’s why I’ve compiled a list of exercises you can do … whatever your emotional state may be! Scroll down so see what might be a good fit for you!
STRESSED
If anxiety has you up at all hours of the night a la Rory Gilmore – or in bed hiding, whenever possible, during the day – then dancing might just be the exercise you need to calm your nerves, refocus your energy and get you back on track. Plus, you can do it at home, which means if your anxiety has you too freaked to enter the real world at the moment, you can still try it! Wifi and a bit of clear floor space are all you’ll need.
SAD
When you’re sad, one of the most important thing to do is be gentle with yourself. That’s why a non-judgemental workout like gentle yoga is a good fit. Not only does going to a class give you a change of scenery, but in yoga there is typically no talking (translation = no social time), and zero pressure to have fun, be peppy or do anything other than show up and follow along. Better yet? Yoga is pretty much the only class where you can lie down on your back or curl up into a small ball and still be in a “pose” without anyone asking questions.
PMS
It’s no secret that PMS is a real thing and that it can involve allll the feels. So if you’re struggling to cope with the balancing act that is the real world and your fragile/angry/insert adjective here bc how dare I label any woman so callously (ahh!!! I’m the messenger!!), then a dance class like Zumba might be just what you need. Not only does dancing help people beat anxiety (see the Stressed section of this article for more), but Zumba is itself has a body positive, fun environment that will welcome you in your fiercest lion-like state, your most cub like moments, and everywhere in between.
ANGRY
Go bowling. Yeah, I know, “F” me for even suggesting it, but seriously… go bowling. The act of knocking down pins – or, if you prefer, hitting golf balls – can be cathartic, especially if you allow yourself to indulge in a bit of visualization when it comes to what (or whom!?) those pins or balls represent! Not to mention, bowling is a fun way to strength train your arms and upper body. Who knew getting out some anger could be so good for you!?
FIERCE
Ohhh heyyy! GET IT! And while you’re at it, take that sexy self of yours to a Zumba class where you can let your attitude shine on the dance – er, gym – floor. The spotlight may not be all yours, but at least you’ll have the perfect opportunity to show the world just what you’re made of.
EMBARRASSED
We’ve all had moments when we just want to find a hole to crawl into and remain in… preferably forever! Well, or until someone else does something equally embarrassing and the world moves on (as if it hasn’t already) from us and our shame. If embarrassment is hitting your hard, try an empowering exercise like pole dancing to remind you just a sexy God/Goddess/otherwise defined badass you really are!!
No matter what you’re feeling, do your best to get out most days and move. Like one of my all time favorite fitness quotes says:
You’re only one workout away from a good mood.
Let me know how it goes and feel free to share if you have other exercises that work for you!
xo,
V
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