5 Ways to Move Your Body (That Actually Don’t Suck)

Let’s be real, exercise used to feel like a chore for me. And maybe to you it still does. The pressure to hit the gym, sweat buckets, or follow some complicated plan never worked for me. And if you’re anything like me, you’ve probably thought:

I just want to move my body in a way that feels fun and good and not like punishment.
Yeah same, girl.

Over the years, I've found forms of movement that support both my mental health (much needed) and the tension I carry in my body. Spoiler: It all lives in my abdomen and shoulders (hello, bad posture and anxious belly tightness - so fun).

Now, movement is my medicine - truly. It's how I regulate, reset, and reconnect with myself without forcing myself into something I dread.

The best part? These forms of movement aren’t even that “out of the box” but we just sometimes forget that it doesn’t have to be this intense, overly structured, or an overwhelming thing.

1. Yoga (Especially Aerial or Beach Yoga When I’m Traveling)

I love a good stretchy, grounding yoga flow—especially at home where I can move at my own pace. But when I’m out of town or at the beach? You know I’m looking up a beach yoga class. This year, I’m even trying paddle board yoga because we’ve got to keep it interesting over here 😅. Also? Aerial yoga is pure magic if you ever want to feel like you’re floating your stress away.

2. Pilates (aka My Core’s Best Friend)

Pilates is slow, intentional, and sneaky. You think it’s going to be a breeze until you wake up the next day like.. Okay, wow. My core is actually on fire. I love how it targets deep stabilizing muscles without high impact and I'm all about low impact workouts. It’s so helpful for posture and tension in my midsection.

3. Barre (Tiny Movements, Big Results)

Barre is my FAV when it comes to low-impact burn. It’s a mix of Pilates, ballet, and yoga and it makes your muscles shake in the best way. I do these from home in 10-minute bursts and always walk away feeling taller, stronger, and more in tune with my body.

4. Dance Workouts (I do these when I know I'm home alone😂)

You don’t need rhythm, a dance background, or even pants with buttons for this. Just put on a playlist (or follow a YouTube video), and move however you want. Dance releases stored tension, boosts my mood instantly, and reminds me movement can be fun.

5. My 10-Minute Rule + Free YouTube Finds!

I don’t do 45-minute workouts, unless I'm in a class outside of my home. I barely do 20 at home. If the video says “30-minute full body shred,” I’m out.
What actually works for me?

~ 10-minute workouts
~ Done from home
~ That leave me feeling refreshed, not drained
~ All on FREE YouTube videos - WOO!

I’ve created a playlist of my favorite go-to YouTube workouts - from yoga and barre to Pilates and dancey little routines I do in my *small* living room, don't need a ton of space!

Pro tip: Okay.. I am no "pro" but make your own playlist so you always have something you actually look forward to!

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Why I Move (and Why You Can, Too)

I move for my mind first. Because when I don’t, my anxiety creeps up, my shoulders hit my ears, and I feel disconnected from myself. I move to feel better in my body, not to shrink it. I move to loosen the tension I carry, not to earn my next meal. I move because it feels good & to me that’s enough.

So if traditional workouts make you cringe, just know you’re not alone. Start with 10 minutes, and if that works for you then great, because it works for me! Try something playful. Find joy in movement again. These small shifts might be exactly what your body and brain have been craving.

Reflection Prompt for You::

What type of movement actually feels fun or refreshing to you? Did any of these spark up an interest in you?

If there were no rules, no expectations—what would you choose?

**Disclaimer: The content shared in this blog is for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your diet, movement, or wellness routines. I am sharing from personal experience and coaching background—please use your own judgment and listen to your body.