Write to Move It
Hello Dear One,
How are you? A week into December and I’ve eaten half a kilo of jelly sweets, finished the draft of my novel and put up a Christmas tree. It feels like there is so much more to do, but that’s enough for now.
Over the past few days I’ve realised how important movement is to me. I didn’t do as much of it in November, focusing on writing, teaching and - you know - existing. But I did miss it.
When I went back to work earlier this year I started doing fifteen minutes of exercise in the morning and it really lifted my spirits. However, I soon got sleepier, busier and the world got darker. On Saturday, in a funk on a very rainy day, it occurred to me my energy wasn’t great because I hadn’t moved for so long. I did a quick workout and it gave me such a boost.
However, I have a complicated relationship with exercise. When I was younger I used it as a stick to beat myself up with - never feeling thin enough or like I had the perfect body. I used to say things like ‘Come on tubs’ to get myself to the gym, go four or five times a week and never celebrate it. So, I started rebelling against exercise. This wasn’t great either, because I needed it, I just didn’t like defining myself by it. I found yoga, which felt new and nourishing, but missed the endorphin rush.
Last year I ran a half marathon for a mental health charity and it was the first time I tackled my limiting beliefs about exercising. I didn’t care about how fast I went, I tried to tune into my body and enjoy feeling alive. I have lovely memories of my little dog Hope running beside me in training. In lockdown, I started doing home workouts and saw the difference they make to my mood. These are not things I share on social media, both because I remember how much I used to compare myself to others and I don’t want to fuel my own desire for validation. Plus, we all have different demands on our time, different mental and physical barriers. For me, the activity itself is enough.
We’re fast approaching a time of year which encourages us to do nothing (next week’s letter ‘Write to Rest’ - will be equally important), but it’s the perfect moment to consider the role of movement in your life, where it fits and if you want to make time for it. Nights on the couch are lovely, but are they always serving you?
It can also be nice to write a letter to your favourite form of movement, thanking it for all it’s given you. Have a play.
For me living a good life is less and less about what I achieve and more and more about how I feel. So, I’m going to try something new. I always wrote off surfing, holding on to the limiting belief that I can’t balance and would be too self-conscious. As soon restrictions ease I’m going to book a lesson.
I hope it helps. Thanks for being here and being you.
All love,
Jo
NEWS
I’m talking to Rosie Arthey, a wonderful life coach, about self-belief on her Instagram at 8.30 pm BST tonight. Come listen and ask us questions.
This Thursday, 10th December, is workshop day! 7.30 pm via Zoom. An hour of sweet self-care, ideal if you’re struggling to find time and space for yourself, all you need is a notebook, pen and cosy, quiet space. £10/£7 concessions. Hit reply to book or for further details.
I’m also planning a new course, designed to help you cultivate a self-compassionate voice and move confidently towards your goals. Keep an eye on my Instagram, or email hellojoannebell@gmail.com with NEWCOURSE in the subject line to register your interest.