S-Life Mag

Your source for nourishment, inspiration, and joy

Well-Being

Get High On Movement

TAKE YOUR PICK FROM THESE JOYFUL WAYS TO WORK UP A SWEAT—AND QUIET YOUR ANXIETY IN THE PROCESS

Well-Being

Get High On Movement

TAKE YOUR PICK FROM THESE JOYFUL WAYS TO WORK UP A SWEAT—AND QUIET YOUR ANXIETY IN THE PROCESS

Whether you’ve experienced it or not, the runner’s high—that feeling of elation that comes over athletes while logging miles—is real. Experts believe it has evolutionary roots; our ancestors needed that biological motivation to pick up the pace when they had to chase down their dinner. But if jogging isn’t your thing, you can still experience the feel-good vibes, because it’s not specifically the running that gets you “high.”

Any form of physical activity (dancing, biking, getting playful with a partner…) can trigger that rush of endorphins. And the benefits are both plentiful and holistic, encompassing both the physical body and mental state. Science shows time and again that regular exercise can help lift mood, raise energy, regulate stress, enhance brain clarity, boost libido, and even help with depression and anxiety.

Below, we’ve gathered some of our favorite ways to move to a better state of mind. Though some practices require a subscription for full access, many are donation-based or offer free online classes on YouTube or Instagram Live at select times. All can be done with little to no equipment in your living room, backyard, rooftop, or whatever space has become your gym these days.

Now it’s time to turn up some tunes, get out of your head, and get into your body.

DANCE, BARRE, AND DANCE CARDIO

BodyCraft

DanceBody

Dance Church

Dance for All Bodies

FORWARD Space

Gaga.People.Dancers

Ryan Heffington

The Class by Taryn Toomey

The Sculpt Society

TONING AND STRENGTH TRAINING

Body by SJ

EVERYBODY

Harlem Cycle

Melissa Wood Health

Nike Training Club

obé Fitness

Rachel Robinson Fitness

Tracy Anderson Method

Women’s Strength Coalition

Many local gyms are offering remote training programs or classes via video conferencing. Check with yours to find out, and if you’re able, consider continuing to pay for your membership to support the trainers and coaches you love. You may also be able to arrange remote personal training sessions using an app like TrueCoach or TrainHeroic.

YOGA AND STRETCHING

Brooklyn Yoga Club

Underbelly

MUSIC TO MOVE YOU

DJ Duo Coco & Breezy’s Vibe-Boosting Playlist

Tunes That Brings the Heat