Buenos Dias Kimberly,

Why movement is essential for health and happiness.

 I love to watch our cats when they get the zoomies! They remind me how much animals naturally weave movement into their days. In the wild, physical activity is essential for survival. Even our pets need it—for weight control, heart health, strength, and to avoid boredom or anxiety. Otherwise, as any pet owner knows, mischief begins!

For us, survival may not depend on escaping predators, but our health and vitality do depend on staying active. Unfortunately, we live in a world where food, entertainment, and even community can be accessed from a sofa or a car seat. Sedentary living is becoming the norm, but God designed us for movement.

The Science of Movement & Mood

Movement doesn’t just benefit the body—it transforms the brain and emotions too. Every time you move, your body releases:

• Endorphins → natural pain relievers that reduce discomfort and bring a sense of euphoria (“runner’s high”).
• Serotonin → helps stabilize mood, improve sleep, and reduce feelings of depression or anxiety.
• Dopamine → boosts motivation, focus, and the sense of reward after activity.

This “feel-good chemistry” explains why people often feel calmer, happier, and more energized after exercising. In God’s wisdom, He designed our bodies so that movement itself rewards us and helps us live with greater joy and resilience.

Nature + Movement: A Double Blessing

Exercising outdoors multiplies the benefits:

• Vitamin D from sunlight
• Stress reduction from time in green/blue spaces
• Mood & energy boosts from fresh air and natural light
• Connection when we move with friends, family, or even our pets

Make It Playful

Up until now, we talked about the more traditional types of exercise. Movement doesn’t have to feel like a chore. Try animal-inspired motions like bear crawls, crab walks, or monkey swings for strength, endurance, and flexibility. Sports and recreation add variety and community.

And sometimes, exercise sneaks into life in unexpected ways. My husband’s family introduced me to yard-sized Dutch Blitz—a fast-paced card game that involved constant squats, kneeling, and shuttle runs. It was both fun and physically demanding! Even the tabletop version can get your heart pumping if you let it. If you have never played Dutch Blitz, I recommend you check it out and be prepared for some fast-paced fun! https://dutchblitz.com/ 

So—what’s your favorite way to move? And who can you invite to join you?

Connect-to-Action

Ready to move toward better health with purpose and joy?
I’d love to connect with you—whether over a virtual coffee chat or a local coffee chat if you want to find out what this is all about. When you are ready to dive in, let’s explore how faith and lifestyle medicine can help you reduce pain and inflammation and reclaim strength and energy for your calling through a complementary Find Your Energy Discovery Session. 

May you find Zeal in your Zoomies,

Kim

Hope and Healing Lifestyle Coaching, LLC

Coming up... Are you waking up tired? Struggling to fall asleep? Next month is all about sleep! 

A little movement today can mean a lot more freedom tomorrow. Data-Wan