Reframing Exercise: From Chore to Self-Care

For many of us, exercise feels like another task on an endless to-do list. I know it was for me, I always enjoyed walking and did a lot of it. I had to reframe how I saw it? What if exercise wasn’t about checking a box but about taking care of ourselves, step by step?

Start With Your “Why”

Instead of thinking about exercise as something you have to do, think about why you want to move your body:

  • To feel healthier and more energized?
  • To keep up with your kids or grandkids?
  • To build endurance and strength for daily life?
Mine was for my mental health, to get out of the house, at the beginning of my separation. Then it became I wanted to carry my laundry basket up the stairs in one swoop. I want to be able to carry all my groceries and not need to rest. Those eventually led to me wanting to carry 50lbs a short distance.

When you connect exercise to a deeper purpose, it becomes more than just an obligation—it becomes an act of self-love. Many people struggle with giving themselves self-love and prioritizing things like exercise due to a combination of societal pressures, personal beliefs, and emotional barriers.

Start Small and Build Momentum

You don’t need to spend hours in the gym or run a 5k tomorrow. Start small:

  • Take a 10-minute walk.
  • Do a quick workout at home.
  • Try one new activity, like yoga or dance.

Progress is built on consistency, not perfection. Celebrate every small victory—you’re moving in the right direction. Focus on non scale victories ( NSV). 

  • Are you getting stronger? 
  • Are your clothes fitting looser?
  • Did you manage to get all your list done without a rest?

Set Goals and Keep Pushing

Having a goal in mind gives you something to strive for. Maybe you want to:

  • Run your first 5K.
  • Do 10 push-ups in a row.
  • Climb stairs without getting winded.

Whatever your goal, keep it realistic and exciting. Track your progress and remind yourself that each step forward brings you closer to where you want to be.

Focus on How You Feel

Exercise isn’t just about how you look; it’s about how you feel. Notice the mental clarity, the energy boost, and the sense of accomplishment after each workout. Let those feelings motivate you to keep going.

Push Through, but Be Kind to Yourself

 Rest when you need to, but don’t give up. Remind yourself why you started, adjust your pace if needed, and keep pushing forward. Start small and let momentum grow—each step forward builds confidence and brings you closer to your goals. Be careful with the negative self-talk in your mind. The language in your mind can destroy your goals in no time.

How can you reframe the I must do this task?

For me, exercise felt like another task on an endless to-do list—a chore I “should” do but rarely look forward to. Then I thought what if I could reframe how I saw it? What if exercise wasn’t about checking a box but about taking care of ourselves, step by step?

Exercise Is a Gift

Reframe exercise as a gift you’re giving your body—a way to honor your health and strength. It’s not a punishment or a chore; it’s an investment in your future self.


Here are pictures down below of 2 of my major goals. Able to swing my body and carry 50 lbs a short distance.

Keep going. Keep moving. You’ve got this!

What’s one small way you’ll move your body today? Share in the comments—I’d love to cheer you on! 🚶‍♀️🏋️‍♀️💪



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