Three months after the suboccipital craniectomy, I went to see the Neurosurgeon who performed the operation.  His advise to me was:  “Start Streaking.”  He explained that he’s been streaking for eight years.  And no my doctor was not suggesting that I exercise naked.  His streak was going on the treadmill for 40 minutes a day (he started out with 20 minutes and has worked up to 40 minutes).   Being a fitness enthusiast I liked this idea and I thought I’d offer it to you.  My streak has been one Pure Barre class per day for 20 days each month.  So far I’ve been streaking for 13 months and I’m so motivated that I’m keeping it going.

What will your streak be? Pick an exercise that you are going to do everyday and how long you do that activity each day. Maybe you want to work on your cardio or upper/lower body strength or maybe you want to focus on building your core. How long do you want the streak to be? 60 days? Six months?  A year? Figure out what feels right and realistic to you and go from there. Even 30 days can be a streak.  Be kind to yourself if life gets in the way and you need a few days or even a week off – then try to get back on track. What are you going to do to keep up the streak? Working out for 15-30 minutes isn’t hard but doing it for 30 days can be stressful.  Decide before you begin what your going to do to keep your workout streak successful.  Studies show that if you have a friend to keep you accountable you are more likely to keep up.  Be sure to reward yourself for your determination.

It’s important to keep it in mind when it comes to exercise – how much, and which types, will benefit you most? Some people do better with more gentle, centering exercises, while others require vigorous activity. Experiment with walking, running, HIIT, biking, swimming, yoga, Pilates, Pure Barre, dancing, and simple strength exercises like planks and squats – your options are endless. When you find what works for you, you’ll be more likely to do it consistently and reap the benefits, including increased energy, improved mental clarity, optimal digestive health, and enhanced mood. 

Exercise also produces the feel good hormone serotonin, which has an uplifting effect on your entire body. Discover what you love, and stick with it. 

So what’s the secret to a successful and consistent exercise routine? Accountability! Whether you rely on a friend, family member, trainer, or simply your own willpower to keep you in check, having a goal system to track your progress is crucial. Keep a note of your exercises, and check in with yourself once a week. Don’t forget to honor your great work with self-care – a massage, long walk, or watching your favorite TV show guilt-free during your rest day.

Acknowledge all the types of exercise you do. Don’t feel like yoga is a work-out? Your body says differently. Feel like you need to run 10 miles to make it count? Actually, less than a mile in, your endorphins are already soaring. 

Once you find what works for you, and start noticing all the benefits you’re gaining, exercise will be like second nature and your body will thank you for it. 

Are you ready to start an Exercise Streak?

Would you like support and guidance you on your exercise streak? To find out more goto: www.peacefulyoga.net

Check out my Yoga, Mindfulness, and Meditation Tool Box on my website.