When I was a little girl, I would sit by my grandmother during picnics. All of her friends would sit in a circle and they would talk about different body parts that ached. Everyone seemed to be experiencing hip issues. It was funny to hear who had the worst hip pain told in dramatic fashion. This was their way of venting and sharing a bond. I never saw them take walks with each other. My grandmother’s generation didn’t grow up with messages encouraging them to play sports, etc. The overall message I heard was that getting older meant pain and disability. I also never saw my parents, who worked long hours with overnight shifts exercising.
I had such traumatic gym experiences in elementary school. I was always picked last when sides were chosen (hoping that the outdated system had changed). I had to let go of bad memories, which were stopping me from exploring a more active lifestyle. In my childhood, I didn’t have someone to encourage me in this area. As a result, I waited a very long time to discover the joy of movement because I thought I wasn’t “athletic” enough. I never understood how deeply this impacted me, but was convinced that I wanted to live my life differently.
The Me of today looks for more active vacations. I love hiking and horseback riding as ways to truly experience a new place. I never think of myself as a failure if I’m not great at something, because it takes courage to try something new. There is so much joy when I’m taking a group exercise class that provides support and camaraderie. I’m enjoying the journey, instead of worrying that I will never be able to master certain yoga poses.
Take the time to reflect on your past and think about the positive and negative messages you heard about exercise and living a healthy lifestyle. You may be surprised by the hidden stories, your inner critic, and messages that have been silently influencing you.
You can choose the narrative and take a risk. Your middle school self will thank you. Try a new activity that intrigues and intimidates you. Booking a lesson will help you feel more comfortable.
