5%

Hey there, fellow humans trying to navigate the chaos of daily life, especially in the whirlwind of a new year. Let’s talk about the struggle of fitting movement and exercise into our jam-packed schedules.

So, picture this: you’re a woman (I write from this perspective purely because I am one too, but for anyone), possibly juggling kids and their new school routines, along with the myriad of other responsibilities life throws your way. Things like work, the extra work, the house work, the food work, the friends work, the family work, basically just all the things. Carving out an hour for yourself feels like trying to find a needle in a haystack. Trust me, I get it.

But here’s the thing: that one hour of sweat session is less than 5 percent of your day. Yup, you heard me right. It’s a mere blip in the grand scheme of things. And yet, it’s probably the toughest blip to squeeze in.

We all know the drill. We nod along to the importance of self-care, preaching it like gospel to our friends and family because we want them to be happy and healthy! But when it comes to actually practicing what we preach, well, that’s a whole different ball game.

But let me hit you with a truth bomb: all that love and care you have for everyone? You cannot pour it from an empty cup. It’s as simple as that. Taking time for yourself, for movement, for your OWN routine and structure is not just important, it’s essential. Your mental and physical health depend on it. We can physically only care for others as much as we can care for ourselves. The more love and time we give our own minds and bodies in way of healthy and nutritious (and yummy!) food, movement that brings you joy and fun - the more of these things we can bring into the lives of those around us! Everybody wins!

Sure, it’s hard. It’s damn hard. Especially when every minute of your day seems accounted for. But making the effort, carving out that precious time for yourself, is non-negotiable. It’s the cornerstone of a healthier, happier you.

So, here’s to all the women out there, juggling a million and one things. Here’s to the warriors who understand that prioritizing themselves isn’t selfish, it’s survival. And here’s to taking that first step, no matter how small, towards a better, more balanced life. I challenge you to your first hour tomorrow, your first 5%.

You got this. We got this. Let’s do this, one hour at a time.

Mads x