The Joy of Movement & How to Establish an Exercise Routine That You Love

Are you tired of dreading your workouts—or worse, skipping them altogether because they feel like just another thing on your endless to-do list?

You’re not alone.

As a busy mom, it’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking that movement has to be hard, structured, or time-consuming to “count.” But here’s the truth: movement should be something you enjoy. Not a punishment, not a chore—but something that fills your cup and fuels your energy.

That’s what one one of my most loved episodes of the Strong & Nourished Momma podcast is all about: redefining your relationship with exercise and finding joy in movement again.

Why Joy Matters More Than Discipline

Loving the way you move isn’t just a “nice idea.” It’s key to building a sustainable routine that you’ll actually stick with. When you enjoy the activity, it becomes easier to make time for it—and consistency naturally follows.

Instead of chasing perfection or punishing yourself with workouts that feel like a drag, we’re talking about tuning into what actually makes you feel energized, strong, and confident.

Ways to Explore Movement You Love

In the episode, I break down practical ways to experiment with different types of movement to find what lights you up. A few ideas to get you started:

  • Dance in your kitchen to your favorite playlist
  • Take a walk in nature—even 10 minutes counts!
  • Lift heavy weights and embrace your strength
  • Try something new you’ve been curious about (yoga, barre, kettlebells, cycling… anything!)
  • Stretch before bed and notice how your body feels

When movement is tied to enjoyment rather than guilt or “shoulds,” it becomes a celebration of what your body can do.

Make Movement Fit Your Life

As a mom, time is always tight. That’s why in this episode, I’m also sharing real-life strategies to fit movement into your schedule without stress. Because it doesn’t have to be all or nothing. Five minutes of joy-filled movement is better than none.

And here’s a reminder: exercise doesn’t have to look like a traditional workout. Picking up your toddler, hauling groceries, cleaning the house, chasing your dog around the yard? It all counts as movement. And it all matters.

Tune In & Join the Challenge!

So here’s your challenge, Momma: this week, find one way to move your body that feels good. That brings you joy. That makes you feel strong, alive, and you.

🎧 Want to dive deeper and hear all the tips?
Listen to the full episode of the Strong & Nourished Momma Podcast:

Tag me on Instagram or drop me a message to share your movement win—I’d love to celebrate with you.

You got this, Momma.
Stay strong & nourished,
Val


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I’m Val—New Mexico native, licensed Registered Dietitian, board-certified Sports Dietitian, certified personal trainer, and momma to one sweet baby girl. I created Wellness by Val to help busy women, especially postpartum moms, feel strong, nourished, and truly supported through every season of life.

With a background in Exercise Science, Nutrition, and Functional Medicine, plus certifications in pregnancy and postpartum coaching, I bring a science-backed, balanced approach to health—and a whole lot of real-life experience.

I believe movement is a gift, not a punishment. That pizza is always worth loving. And that women deserve to feel good in their bodies—no matter how full their plates are (literally and figuratively).

Whether you’re navigating postpartum recovery, rebuilding your strength, or just trying to eat better without stress, I’m here to walk alongside you. Let’s make wellness simple, sustainable, and even a little fun.

Meet Val

Functional Sports RD + Postpartum Specialist