No Time For Pilates? We Can Help!

It's a super common phrase these days: "I just don't have time!" We're rushing from job to job, family function to family function, and we're lucky if we're able to do our hair, finish the grocery shopping, and get a healthy meal on the table each day. Research shows that time-poor individuals who feel constrained by competing priorities often become less active and less healthy. "Time" is the number one reason people give for making unhealthy food choices and exercising less.  

Our Perception of Time
Turns out time is more than just some numbers on a clock. While there ARE only a certain number of hours in the day, our attitudes toward time are shaped by our values and our mindset. We all know the concept of "making time" for the things we value and the things we prioritize. "Looking" for more time in the day or trying to do multiple things at once just won't work. Research has shown that when people multitask the end result can actually be more sloppy--and each task take longer--than if the person had just focused on one thing at a time.

Our Priorities
So if it's not about "making more time" or finding more "life hacks", what is it about?
It's about defining (or redefining) our priorities based on our values (not based on what others think our values should be) and then making the best use of our time. It can be helpful to reflect on what is most important to you in life and move away from tasks, people, or projects that no longer serve your values. Reflect on your core values and whether they align with your daily activities. Are there daily tasks you are completing that are not getting you any closer to your goals? Are you "prioritizing" these things over other more important activities?

How We Spend our Time
Did you know that the average American checks their phone over 80 times a day? Mindlessly scrolling through social media, watching Netflix, or browsing/shopping online may all feel good, but might not be the best choices when it comes to your wellbeing. Technology offers a constant temptation to fill your time (and attention) but too much screen time can result in the production of excess stress hormones. Besides, how many people really say on their deathbeds- I wish I had spent more time on Facebook?

Let's Go
So let's begin. Reflect on your priorities and core values, and then assess whether your daily activities matches those. If it does, wonderful! If it doesn't, maybe it's time to make a change. And I know all of this "sounds" easy but in reality can be challenging to implement. But challenging doesn't mean impossible. Next time you think "I just don't have time for Pilates today," reflect on why you started Pilates in the first place (mental/physical health, pain relief, injury rehabilitation, toning your body, increasing strength, etc) and the benefits it brings you. You just might "find" the time was there all along!