Get Physical, Feel Powerful: The Confidence Boost of Active Hobbies

If we’re being honest, working out usually falls pretty low on the priority list. After a stressful day, Netflix and takeout seem so much better than hauling yourself to the gym or a dance class. But once you actually get moving, everything changes. To get a hint of motivation, you can take a look at how women can have fun while moving on the hot Latin rhythms:

That weight that’s been dragging you down starts to feel a little lighter. Those nagging inner critics piping up with doubt and insecurity get turned down to a whisper. And you reconnect with your best, most confident self again. How does it happen? The power of physical activity, my friends. Science confirms that exercise releases feel-good endorphins, lowers stress hormones and boosts mood-enhancing chemicals. But it’s about more than biology. Physical hobbies, especially done in groups, create community and support. And for us gals, that sense of solidarity is empowering.

• 
  Belly Dance Class as a High Intensity Workout: Is It That Good?
• 
  Bachata as a Rhythmic Workout Dance that Keeps You Moving
• 
  What are the benefits of dance workouts?

Imagine a new mom who’s lost her former sense of self. She looks in the mirror and doesn’t recognize the woman staring back. She feels drained, insecure and disconnected from who she used to be. But after starting a weekly dance class, something shifts. Moving to the beat makes her feel alive again. Learning those sexy new moves reconnects her to her sensuality. And the cheers from her fellow dancers as she nails each routine make her feel like a rock star.

For the first time in too long, she remembers what it feels like to be confident and strong. She carries that energy home to her family and tackles tasks that used to seem daunting. Her inner badass, which went dormant under the weight of responsibility, is back thanks to getting physical.

But you don’t have to be a Zumba queen or yogi master to tap into the magic. Even lower intensity activities like walking can make a difference. Imagine a woman recovering from a traumatic life event. Her therapist suggests an outdoor hobby to reduce anxiety and depression.

At first, she thinks brisk strolls around the neighborhood sound silly. How could something so simple change anything? But those 30 minutes of moving meditation become a sanctuary. Tuning into the rhythm of her breath and footsteps quiets her swirling thoughts. The fresh air and vitamin D give her energy. Watching squirrels play and neighbors garden makes the world seem more hopeful. Without even trying, she’s given herself perspective. Challenges that once seemed insurmountable are now tackle-able one step at a time. Her outlook shifts from “I can’t do this” to “I’ve got this.” That, my friends, is the quiet confidence that movement provides.

So what are you waiting for? Start small, but commit to regular activity. Try new hobbies until you find what moves your spirit. Gather girlfriends and make sweat sessions bonding time. Tune into your body and notice the transformation.

Physical strength leads to mental strength. And empowered women? Well, there’s no telling what we can accomplish once we find our power. The world needs your talents, ideas and inner warrior. So claim your space, get moving and watch your confidence soar. You’ve got this!