If you’ve found that your motivation to keep active in lockdown has dropped off, you’re not alone. Gyms are closed, days lack structure and we’re limited to our homes for the majority of the time – it’s only normal to feel a decrease in motivation. Physical wellness is one of the eight core dimensions in 8Wise™️ so in order to achieve optimum overall wellness, it’s important not to neglect it. In addition to quality sleep, a healthy diet, drinking enough water, health checkups, and personal hygiene, exercise is a great way to strengthen your physical wellness. You can read more about our unique 8Wise approach HERE.
Physical activity isn’t just great for your body, it’s great for your mind too. It has been proven to reduce anxiety, depression, and negative mood, whilst boosting self-esteem and cognitive function. It also has the following benefits: better sleep, reduced stress levels, increased energy, reduced cholesterol and improved cardiovascular fitness.
It’s beneficial to get that motivation back in order to improve your wellness and protect your mental health. We’ve put together some top tips for staying motivated to exercise during lockdown so that you can live the 8Wise Way…
- Don’t beat yourself up
If you haven’t done any physical activity for a few days or even weeks, don’t be hard on yourself. Even if you don’t feel up for a high intensity workout, know that a quick 20 minute walk is better than nothing.
- Set yourself a schedule
Map out what days you’d like to exercise each week and pop them in your diary. Tick off each session and you’ll find satisfaction and further motivation by completing each workout!
- Set yourself realistic goals
Think about what is realistic for you, and write it down. That could be completing three yoga sessions a week, walking 10,000 steps a day, or stretching for 15 minutes every morning.
- Stay accountable
Tell your family and friends about your goals, and that way you’ll be more inclined to reach them. It can be beneficial to find a friend who also has similar goals, and you can exercise together via video chat.
- Mix it up
Varying your physical activity will ensure that you won’t get bored or loose motivation. Take different walking routes or try different workouts on youtube.
- Reward yourself
Whenever you achieve a goal, give yourself a small reward to build your enthusiasm. That could be watching your favourite film, painting your nails, or taking a bubble bath.