The Magic of Motion: How Movement Transforms Your Mind and Body
If you’ve been feeling stuck lately, like you’re spinning your wheels without getting anywhere, one of the most powerful things you can do is get your body moving. Chris and Matt brought this lesson to life on a recent episode of the On Target Living Podcast titled “Motion Creates Positive Emotion.”
Matt and Chris talked about the incredible mental and physical benefits that come from daily movement. And they go way beyond just burning calories or building muscle. Read on to find out how movement can literally transform your mindset and outlook on life.
The Power of Stretching
Ever notice how you feel looser and more relaxed after a good stretch? As Matt explains, deep stretching triggers the release of hormones that relieve tension and calm your nervous system. Even just a few minutes of mindful stretching per day can work wonders.
Pro tip: Hold each stretch for at least 30-60 seconds while focusing on your breath. Set an intention like “relax” or “let go” to enhance the effects. Products like our Full Body Flexibility Rollers are great tools for self-myofascial release and deep stretching anytime.
The Mind-Body Connection
Here’s an eye-opening fact from Matt: Research shows exercise can be even more effective at improving mood than prescription meds or traditional therapy. It turns out moving your body has an incredible effect on your mental outlook and emotions.
How? Physical activity releases feel-good chemicals like endorphins and endocannabinoids (your body’s natural version of CBD and THC). It also creates a state of “flow” - that magical mindset where you’re completely immersed in the present moment.
So if you’ve been feeling blue or anxious, getting active could be just what the doctor ordered. Our OTL app offers hundreds of 5-minute “Motion Moments” to lift your spirits fast.
Nourish Your Body, Nourish Your Mind
Proper nutrition provides the fuel for both physical and mental vitality. Products like our Wheatgrass or Spirulina nourish your cells with alkalizing superfoods and antioxidants.
Quality sleep is also key. Getting 7-9 hours per night helps recharge your mind, so you awaken feeling refreshed and ready to take on the day’s challenges.
Find Movement You Love
Matt and Chris agree that discovering forms of movement you genuinely enjoy is crucial for making it a lifelong habit. Maybe it’s walking your dog, rollerblading, salsa dancing, paddleboarding - you name it!
Don’t get caught up in lengthy, rigid workout routines either. Even 10 minutes of exercise daily provides huge benefits. Start with our 10 Minute Workouts for a quick dose of feel-good movement.
The Fountain of Youth
Here’s a motivational fact: studies show active seniors who make movement a priority experience huge gains in balance, coordination, cognitive function and emotional health. They become stronger, more flexible and mobile through their 70s, 80s and beyond!
It’s never too late to restore youthful movement. Our OTL Coaching App offers targeted mobility routines to increase range of motion and keep your joints supple at any age. Small movements like rotating your wrists and ankles a few times a day keep fluidity in your hands and feet.
Change Your Mindset
At the end of the day, adopting an active lifestyle is truly about shifting your mindset. You don’t have to run marathons or pump iron for hours at the gym. Simply make movement a consistent part of your daily routine - even if it's just a few minutes of stretching or walking at first.
Keep an open, curious mind, and let your body be your guide. The more you move, the better you’ll feel mentally and physically!
So tune into that inner voice telling you to get up and go. Then notice the magic that unfolds when you joyfully get your body in motion!
Watch the full episode in our App or on YouTube, Tune into the latest episode of the podcast on Spotify, Google, or Apple.