One of the most popular new year’s resolutions is to get active, yet statistics show 80% of our resolutions are broken by February.

So try setting an intention instead of a resolution. When we set intentions, we create a road map for our subconscious to follow. When opportunities show up that match the intentions we have set, our mind recognises them as a step on the path that leads to what we want to achieve – to feel more energised and healthier.

The meaningful part of the intention is to try something new that feels right for you. Keep it simple and remind yourself that this process is simply putting one foot in front of the other and celebrate small wins as you get started.

Being physically active and limiting your sedentary behaviour every day is essential for your health and wellbeing irrespective of cultural background, gender or ability.

Moving more and sitting less every day will:-

• Reduce your risk of, or help manage, cardiovascular disease (CVD)
• Reduce your risk of, or help manage, type 2 diabetes
• Maintain and/or improve your blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar levels
• Reduce your risk of, and assist with rehabilitation from, some cancers
• Help prevent unhealthy weight gain and assist with weight loss
• Build strong muscles and bones
• Create opportunities for socialising and meeting new people
• Help you to prevent and manage mental health problems
• Help you develop and maintain overall physical and mental wellbeing.

Moving more each day doesn’t have to be grandiose, it just has to be habit, like walking someplace every day or doing a class either online or in a group setting, or dancing or gardening.

Get your mind ready for movement, try to enjoy doing it and never consider it a chore. Everyone’s routine is going to look different, but working your body starts with working your mind.

Focus on how movement will make you feel – more energised, more mobile, enjoy a better appetite, improved sleep and improved moods.

Myths about exercise and moving your body more

When you start looking into exercising, there are so many tips, techniques, and rules thrown at you.
We’ve broken down some of the biggest misconceptions.

1. You don’t have to be wealthy to work out or move more. You can simply walk, run, jog or do free classes on You Tube or via numerous websites without it costing you anything.
2. You don’t have to have a certain body type to move more. There are exercises and classes for people of all shapes, sizes, abilities and with physical disabilities.
3. You don’t need a lot of time to exercise. You don’t need to exercise five to seven days a week. All you need is about 15-20 minutes per day. However, sunlight and fresh air is always an added benefit if you can fit that in.
4. Exercising doesn’t have to be hard work. Find an activity that you look forward to doing. Dance in the kitchen, dig the garden, walk the dog, walk with a friend, join a group class, dust off an old bike, simply move more and sit less.

There are some useful links below and many more on this website.