Embracing Movement as Self-Care: The Gift I Discovered at 60

For most of my life, I saw exercise as something I “should” do—another task on the never-ending to-do list. I admired people who seemed to love their workouts, but for me, moving my body felt more like a chore than a treat. It wasn’t until I was 60 that I discovered what a true gift movement can be—a form of self-care as meaningful as a massage, a manicure, or even a decadent dessert at my favorite restaurant.

We often talk about self-care as something indulgent or luxurious: a bubble bath, a spa day, or a special treat. But what if we reframed movement in the same way? What if, instead of punishment or obligation, we saw exercise as a precious moment we carve out just for ourselves—a way to nurture our bodies and minds?

This shift didn’t happen overnight. Like many, I spent years caught in the cycle of starting and stopping, trying new routines, and feeling guilty when I skipped a day. But slowly, I began to notice how good I felt after a walk in the fresh air or a gentle stretch in the morning. I realized that moving my body wasn’t just about burning calories or chasing a number on the scale. It was about honoring myself—my energy, my health, and my need for a break from the demands of daily life.

Now, I savor my time at the gym. It’s become a ritual often with a good friend at my side, a sacred pause in my day where I can focus on myself and tune in to how I’m feeling. I don’t compare myself to others or worry about what I “should” be doing. Instead, I listen to my body and move in ways that feel good—sometimes that means lifting weights, other times it’s a brisk walk or a gentle yoga session. Every session is a celebration of what my body can do, not a punishment for what it can’t.

The benefits have been remarkable. My body is responding with more strength and resilience than I thought possible at this stage of life. I feel healthier, more energetic, and—perhaps most surprisingly—I’m finally sleeping better. After years of restless nights, I now look forward to deep, restorative sleep, a gift I never expected from simply moving my body. And, I know that I have restorative sleep because of my Oura ring. I can see the difference in how I sleep after a day of moving my body vs not moving my body.

If you’re struggling to make movement a regular part of your life, I encourage you to shift your perspective. Treat your workouts as a form of self-care, not self-criticism. Celebrate the fact that you can move, in whatever way feels right for you. Whether it’s a dance in your living room, a walk in the park, or a session at the gym, give yourself permission to enjoy it. After all, movement is a gift—one that keeps on giving, no matter your age.

I also want to mention that it is equally important to take a reset day—when you intentionally choose to rest and not move your body. Rest days give your muscles time to recover, help prevent burnout, and allow your mind to recharge. Embracing these pauses is a powerful form of self-care too, reminding us that honoring our body’s need for rest is essential for long-term strength, balance, and overall well-being.

Balance is key in everything I do and everything I want to accomplish including my personal nutrition and wellness journey. By honoring both movement and rest, and making mindful choices with food, I create a sustainable path that is important to my bio-individuality that supports my lasting health, energy, and well-being.