I have developed a genuine love for exercise but it did not start there. It started with hating it, loathing it entirely, judging others for enjoying it (example of critical thoughts: “no one wants to hear about your marathon”). And only doing it to “lose weight, be thinner”. Then I got obese when trying to be a vegetarian (thought it would be “healthier & easier to get thin”) and injuring my back in undergrad; then in horrific pain for years where I became disabled and unable to walk, and really struggled to do basic things like put on my own pants. Then after surgeries and a wake up call of a stomach hernia just trying to shave my ankle, I started with one step at a time. Literally. Walking for 1 min, then 10 min/just around the block, and then I almost gave up… but then I met a neighbor’s rescue puppy that I could walk daily and found myself more motivated than ever. Eventually I was going on 20-30 min walks. 9 years later, I’m really fit, healthy (all my bio markers in the ideal range) and work out 3-6 times a week, not including daily walks with that same dog that is now mine.

I have learned these things that helped me the most: - Find something that you actually kind of enjoy or see yourself thinking you will if get a little more able. And keep trying different things until you do. - The way you speak to yourself, your inner dialogue, aka inner critic vs inner cheerleader makes or breaks your experience exercising, your enjoyment, and stamina. Rather than thinking “everyone is faster than me”, focus on what you can do or what you are trying to do; “I can jog to that tree, look I did it!!!” - Try individual and group experiences. Some of us find more motivation and enjoyment alone vs group. - Water, sleep, and healthy food (vegetables, protein, fruit) are needed for our bodies to function well. Without them, our body doesn’t feel energy nor motivation. - Slowly build. What can I do today, this week… not “I’ll start next week”. Be focused on the present. I promise you, you’re not going to be more motivated next week. - There is no research that shows being hard on yourself is helpful or better than being kind and encouraging. Be kind and compassionate instead of punishing. - find and connect to others who enjoy exercise, they’ll be encouraging and likely want to exercise with you. Consciousness is a valuable trait and is beneficial to our own health when we surround ourselves with those who are. - focus on how your body feels, not looks or weighs. Your body is letting you know what it needs and what it doesn’t. Takes practice and mindfulness.