You have probably heard this sometime in your life, or you have read this inspirational quote at one point or another, but the common phrase that gets tossed around by Instagram models is, “Exercise is celebration for what your body can do, not punishment for what you ate.” While this is true, today I would like to break down exactly what that is supposed to mean and how you apply it to your life.

As you well know by now there are literally thousands of ways to exercise. From hiking to yoga to lifting weights, the various forms of keeping in shape all play a crucial part in life whether you realize it or not. Exercise is not just a way to keep in shape. Go ahead, ask any fitness fanatic that you know and they will tell you that they do not push their bodies in extreme ways simply to burn calories, but because sometimes it is the only way to stay mentally sane in a crazy and busy world.

When I tell you that exercise is supposed to be a celebration of what your body can do, what I really mean is that exercise is supposed to be fun, awesome, and a great way for you to truly access who you are at your core. Exercise refocuses, re-centers, and re-aligns everything about who you are supposed to be. Exercise allows you to channel stress and negativity from your busy life in an energetic and exhilarating way.

You might be thinking, “Well that is all good and dandy, but I do not really love exercising!” Well hold your horses reader, because I am about to blow your friggin’ mind. You do not have to exercise a certain way. Nope. Contrary to anything you have ever seen on Instagram or Facebook, you are not required to work out in any specific way or in any form that copies another person. Just like your taste in movies or art, your taste in exercise could be very different than the next person.

You need to get out there and find out how YOU like to be in shape. What is it that makes your body not only celebrate being alive, but fills you with joy?? We hope it is hitting the gym, in which case we will all be there for the ride with you, but if it is not, we genuinely care about your body being the healthiest and happiest it can be, so go out and use exercise to celebrate that which gives you the most joy and reward!

By: Tanner Porter