What Traditional Fitness Gets Wrong

“You’re not in danger if you can stop and take three deep breaths.” That’s a statement I recently heard from someone who overcame debilitating anxiety. She also said, “Slow is safety.”  I love these two idioms and felt compelled to share them with you today. They 1000percent apply to mindful movement.

Break a sweat, burn calories and get ripped, but at what expense? Adrenal fatigue? Frazzled nerves? Heightened anxiety? This is what traditional fitness gets wrong. How about not injuring the nervous system in the name of a “good” workout?!?

The quality of your breath and the pace at which you move are of prime importance. In fact, what you’re doing, be it a biceps curl, jumping jack or Warrior II, takes a distant second place to them.  Why? Because your nervous system need not be jacked up!!

A low, slow flow of breath – ideally in through the nose – nurtures the nervous system. In the same vein, moving at an unhurried tempo, where you don’t feel pressed for time, calms the mind, facilitates a low, slow flow, and in turn nurtures the nervous system as well. 

This has nothing to do with intensity, btw. if you can keep the breath in a peaceful flow and if you can move your body without a sense of fear, go nuts  – sprint, lift, spar and climb to the mountaintops! 

The more I work in the fit biz the more of an outsider I become because I covet and preach a regulated nervous system. To me, the goal of movement is legit and lasting wellness, not mere fitness. It’s no meds. It’s no anxiety. It’s a strong immune system. It’s great energy. It’s empowerment. It’s confidence. It’s embodiment. It’s capability. It’s feeling good in body, mind and spirit. Sure, I want to help people tone up and trim down, but not if it costs total health! 

Invigorate. Do not irritate.

“Total body” includes every system of the body, not just muscles. 

Legit and lasting wellness starts with a regulated nervous system. 

Let’s Move!