Finding Joy in Movement Again

I remember loving to move and challenge my abilities as a child. I would try to be the fastest, jump the highest, and show off my strength. But somewhere along the way, I learned to hate moving my body. Body image and low self-esteem shaped how I viewed exercise, and it was not until adulthood that I started to enjoy movement again. There is a real connection between movement and mental health.

Most of us know that exercise is good for us. We have heard it from teachers, doctors, and other professionals throughout our lives. Movement boosts mood-regulating chemicals, lowers stress, improves sleep, sharpens focus, and increases energy. These are important benefits for anyone living with depression, anxiety, trauma, or emotional dysregulation. Still, for many of us, exercise feels more like an obligation than something enjoyable.

I used to believe that only “real workouts” counted. That meant going to the gym, lifting weights, or running on a treadmill. I hated all of that. What surprised me was realizing how many of the things I already enjoyed actually counted as exercise. Walking, stretching, dancing in the kitchen, yoga, gardening, playing basketball, swimming, taking the stairs, and even video games like Dance Dance Revolution are all valid forms of movement. What matters more than intensity is consistency and intention.

I knew I would never stick with something I disliked. It was not until I spent a year taking my kids to martial arts classes that I realized it was the perfect structure for me. I looked forward to it, and I appreciated how instructors encouraged modified movements when something felt too difficult. My body could not do everything others could, and that was okay.

Movement can be complicated, painful, or scary, especially for those dealing with chronic pain, illness, mobility limitations, or trauma. These are real challenges that can bring grief, frustration, and fear. Talking with a therapist about those feelings can help create the space to reimagine what movement might look like. For some, it may be walking or stretching. For others, it may be breathing exercises or gentle awareness of the body. Movement should feel like care, not punishment.

Starting martial arts was also intimidating. I worried about being judged and embarrassing myself. But over time, I reconnected with my body, and I stopped caring what others thought. The instructors were kind and supportive, and I began to feel more confident. Besides emotional benefits, I noticed an improved sense of control and more moments of joy, play, and emotional release.

One thing I learned the hard way: let your body catch up to your mind. I almost hurt myself trying to do too much too quickly. I was frustrated by what I could not do. I had to learn to start with what was doable that day. If you have not jumped in ten years or cannot do ten pushups, be kind to yourself. Modify movements, build gradually, and pair it with something fun, like music or a show. Progress is personal.

Movement supports both physical and mental health. It is flexible, adaptable, and unique to you. The more curious you are, the easier it is to find what works.

Exercise is not about fixing yourself. It is about connecting, feeling, and caring for your body. And that is enough.

Holding space for whatever comes next,

Angelina Gutierrez, LPCC 18001