Menopause Monday: Finding My Motivation to Exercise

Happy Monday, ladies! How was your weekend? Mine was jam-packed with so much fun! From thrifting with my daughter to a nostalgic dinner out with family, a special champagne brunch and boat ride with my daughters, and ending with a heartwarming movie at home.

Ah, I made so many memories this weekend that made my heart full, and that’s always the BEST feeling! Although, I think I may need another half cup of my dark roast this morning to get the blood pumping! ☕️ LOL

Well, it’s Menopause Monday here on A Cup for the Next Chapter. Today, I want to talk about exercise and why it’s become such an important part of my menopause journey.

Ladies, let me be completely honest with you…I’ve never been considered a “gym rat.”

My husband and I used to work out at a gym before we had kids. Back then, it was fun! But, as I’ve gotten older, exercise has sometimes felt more like a chore.

When I hit my 50’s, I noticed changes in my body, including that stubborn little tummy pooch. I was also dealing with mood swings and episodes of intense anxiety. Not fun at all!!

I wanted to find ways to take better care of myself, and I knew that regular exercise could be one piece of the puzzle.

So, I decided to give the gym another go. And you know what, ladies? I’m actually looking forward to exercising again!

What made the difference for me? I stopped concentrating on what I should do and started focusing on what I actually enjoy.

I thought back to my younger days, when my husband and I went to the gym regularly. What did I enjoy doing? What were the things I dreaded? Then I remembered how great I always felt after a workout. I knew I wanted to feel that way again!

Was it even possible? Of course, I wasn’t expecting to feel as energetic as I did thirty years ago! After all, we’re talking about three decades later! WOW, does that sound like a really long time ago!😂

But I’d never know how I’d feel if I didn’t give it another try. Ain’t that the truth?

I discovered that I really enjoy using the weight machines, riding the elliptical, and walking the indoor track. But my favorite new discovery has been the rowing machine!

It gives me a full-body workout, and the best part is that I genuinely enjoy doing it. Who would’ve ever thought that? LOL!

I’ve found that being active helps me feel better, and I’ve noticed a positive difference in how I manage my mood and anxiety. It’s also helping me feel stronger, and I know how important that is for my ol’ bones! Exercising has helped me feel more comfortable in my body, too. What a wonderful feeling that is!

Now, on to the questions I just know y’all are wondering about…Do I go to the gym every day? Ladies, let’s be real…um, NO!

Are there days when I don’t feel like going? Absolutely!

Sometimes I give myself a little internal pep talk, get myself moving, and before I know it, I’m on my way to the gym.

Other days, I’m too tired or simply don’t have the energy to get ready and make it out the door. And you know what? That’s okay, too.

I’ve decided I’m not going to be hard on myself when I miss a workout. I believe in giving myself grace. Beating myself up emotionally isn’t doing me any good, especially when I’m still making an effort to take care of my health. So there’s always tomorrow, ladies!❤️

I’ve learned that exercise doesn’t have to mean forcing myself to do something I dislike. Finding activities I enjoy has made a big difference in helping me stick with it.

You know, if you’re struggling to find the motivation to exercise, maybe try what I did and find something you actually enjoy doing. It doesn’t have to be the gym! A casual walk with a friend, dancing to your favorite music, or another activity that gets you moving might be a place to start.

Choose something that works for you and your body. Just because someone enjoys running (not for me with my creaky knees!), that doesn’t mean you have to enjoy it, too.

Remember, ladies, we’re all on our own journeys and we don’t have to be perfect to make progress!

I hope you have a terrific start to the week! Thank you for stopping by A Cup for the Next Chapter. I’m so glad you’re here!

~Chelle Noelle~

**photo credits courtesy of my youngest daughter ❤️