Water & Flow: Breaking the Barriers to Movement
To me, Water is all about Movement. It’s the flow our bodies crave to keep energy from stagnating. It’s the literal hydration of our systems and the metaphorical shift we need to stay healthy and well.
Let’s be real though – sometimes the hardest part of moving isn’t the workout itself—it’s the “before” and the “after.”
Clearing the Path (Literally)
I recently decided I needed more consistent movement in my life, so I finally bought a treadmill. I wanted to create a gym space in my garage for my housemates and me to use when we’re home. I thought I’d be walking miles today, but instead, I spent the morning moving giant cans of paint, pieces of wood, and literal sacks of cement to get the space ready first..
I realized that preparing for the movement is a workout in itself. I was lifting, shifting, and sweating before I even turned the treadmill on. It’s literally still in the box.
Reducing the Friction
I used to let “perfection” or “convenience” block my flow. I’d think: “If it’s not ready for me to go, what’s the point in even trying to set it up? Seems exhausting.” I also thought, “If I work out, I’ll get sweaty. Then I’ll feel gross. Then I’ll have to wash and style my hair, and that’s a whole production that takes all day.”
Does that resonate with you? Sometimes the barrier to entry isn’t the gym; it’s the fear of the inconvenience after the gym.
I’m learning to reduce that friction. I’ve found more efficient ways to style my hair so I don’t have to wait all day for it to dry. I’m reminding myself that a quick shower is easy and I won’t feel “gross” all day. By solving for the “after,” I’m making it so much easier to say yes to the “now.”
Flowing Across Climates
Living in LA, I know I’m blessed with pretty good weather most of the time. I was texting friends today though, one in Denver and one in New York, and it reminded me how much climate impacts our wellness. While I’m setting up a garage gym to avoid the occasional rain, some of you are dealing with snow and freezing temperatures that make even leaving the house its own ordeal.
Whether you’re in a humid dance class in Miami (shoutout to my friend Melody for the inspiration she posted today from her dance class!) or trying to stay grounded in a New York winter, we all have to find our own way to keep the movement going.
My Next Move: Dance
Seeing the joy of movement in others has inspired me to get back into the studio. I’m committing to a dance class at least once a week. It’s about more than just “exercise”—it’s about expression, rhythm, and letting that energy flow freely.
So, I want to hear from you—no matter where you are:
- What are the “barriers” that keep you from moving?
- How are you reducing the friction in your daily routine?
- Most importantly—how are you moving your body today, whether it’s through a workout, a dance, or just clearing out the “cement sacks” in your own life?
Stay in your eliment,
Eliana
