Movement. Exercise. Stretching. The differences between these three can be confusing, as the terms are often used interchangeably. I want to clear up the difference and get you in a positive mindset about daily body maintenance!

Many of us don’t like “exercise.” Often, when we think of exercise, we think of sweat, hard work, gym time, etc. My favorite definition of exercise is simply “to perform or make proper use of.” This is an excellent mindset to employ when it comes to getting your regular exercise.

Exercise encompasses stretching and movement, and it includes most of what we do every day. The important thing to think about when you “exercise” is to do it with intention. Remember the definition – “to perform or make proper use of” – move, stretch, and strengthen the muscles and joints, with intention.

Intentional movement (exercise) should be done every day. Start your day with moving each and every joint to get your “juices” flowing. Moving the joint specifically and repeatedly sends a signal to your brain to send synovial fluid to the joints to soften and lubricate. This helps to prepare the joint, and surrounding tissue, to move in the intended range.

Stretching of soft tissue should only be done after gentle movement. Once an area or joint is warmed, we can then gently start to stretch. Keep in mind the fact that stretching should not be painful! There is an element of “good hurt,” but there should never be pain. Pain is our body’s way of telling us, “No! Stop what you’re doing!” Be mindful and pay attention to the messages that your body is sending you during this process.

As you create an exercise habit, which is the first step in creating a lifestyle of movement, you will begin to see pretty dramatic changes in how you feel. Movement is the key to self-care, and if we were to intentionally move every day as a lifestyle, we would rarely allow our bodies to get out of alignment or imbalanced. Just imagine feeling food adhesions to bay, and physically being able to move to the next level of wellness and fitness! It sounds like a dream, but it is completely attainable if you start at step 1 and create an exercise habit. This will enable you to be well on your way to creating a lifestyle of movement!