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Social Anxiety or Shyness – What’s the Difference?
By Charla Lineman, MEd, LPC, LMFT
When considering social anxiety or shyness, knowing the differences can be confusing.
It’s easy to mistakenly assume that the two are essentially the same thing. Some people might not even believe that social anxiety disorder is anything other than shyness.
By Charla Lineman, MEd, LPC, LMFT
When considering social anxiety or shyness, knowing the differences can be confusing.
It’s easy to mistakenly assume that the two are essentially the same thing. Some people might not even believe that social anxiety disorder is anything other than shyness.
Although there may be some minor similarities, social anxiety disorder goes beyond the mild social discomfort of shyness. Here’s how to tell the difference.
Social Anxiety or Shyness? Understand the Similarities
Psychologists have worked hard to develop a more complete understanding of social anxiety disorder and shyness in the last several decades. They have identified that both shyness and social anxiety can be influenced by genetics, social conditioning, and early childhood experiences.
However, most importantly, their research has also allowed them to determine key differences between the two.
What Is Shyness?
Psychologists have found that:
Shyness is typically considered to be a personality trait (not a diagnosable disorder).
Shy individuals may be quiet, reserved, introverted, and a little uncomfortable in social situations.
Many shy people aren’t troubled by these characteristics of themselves.
Being shy doesn’t create major disturbances and obstacles in their everyday lives.
Shy individuals can successfully navigate school, work, and relationships.
What Is Social Anxiety Disorder?
Social anxiety disorder is characterized by symptoms that are much more intense than those of shy people. These serious symptoms can be debilitating. Unlike shyness, social anxiety is an official diagnosis in the DSM-V (the medical handbook mental health professionals and doctors use to identify disorders in their clients.) It first became an official diagnosis in 1968.
Social anxiety can create great disruption in the everyday lives of those who have it. People suffering from social anxiety may experience:
An overwhelming fear of suffering embarrassment or humiliation around others.
Powerful, uncomfortable physical sensations when in their trigger situations (nausea, shaking, flushing, upset stomach, racing heart, and more.)
Worrying for weeks or months before a social event (not just being a little nervous for a few days beforehand).
Disruption of their social, academic, or work lives to the point of isolation and poor quality of life.
Self-medication to help themselves cope, such as excessive use of alcohol or drug use.
Importantly, these symptoms are specific only to social situations and not to other common phobias. Individuals with social anxiety disorder know what their triggers are, unlike someone with generalized anxiety order or panic attacks that strike out of the blue.
How They Impact Everyday Life
When it comes to everyday tasks such as grocery shopping, individuals with social anxiety may avoid any trips to the store because of their fear of embarrassment when interacting with cashiers or other shoppers.
Individuals with shyness, however, aren’t afraid of going into a store—although they may choose to duck down an aisle to avoid someone they aren’t comfortable talking with!
Shy people might feel some butterflies in their stomachs and sweaty palms before going to a large party. Yet, their feelings won’t paralyze them with fear. They also won’t feel overcome with disruptive physical symptoms as someone suffering from social anxiety might.
When to Seek Help
If you are concerned about experiencing symptoms such as those described here or wondering if you have a social anxiety disorder, a therapist can help answer your questions.
Therapists have many screening tools and questionnaires to aid them in understanding whether you are dealing with social anxiety or shyness. They can evaluate your symptoms and provide insight into how deeply your symptoms may be affecting your life.
After an evaluation, a therapist can work with you to build skills that will help you manage your symptoms and improve the overall quality of your life.
Addressing social anxiety as soon as possible will help prevent it from taking over your life. We encourage you to reach out to our office today. Schedule a session with Charla Lineman, MEd, LPC, LMFT, at the Relationship Counseling Center of Austin by calling (512) 270-4883, or completing our online Scheduling Form. We look forward to hearing from you.
To learn more, click here: Individual Counseling.
What You Need to Know About Courtship in the Online Dating World
The word courtship might feel out of place in today’s dating culture.
You probably don’t associate it with swiping, texting, or algorithm-driven matches. It brings to mind something slower, more deliberate—like handwritten letters and meeting the family over dinner.
The word courtship might feel out of place in today’s dating culture.
You probably don’t associate it with swiping, texting, or algorithm-driven matches. It brings to mind something slower, more deliberate—like handwritten letters and meeting the family over dinner.
But courtship, in its essence, is simply the part of a relationship where you get to know each other beyond surface level. It’s the stretch of time when trust is built, character is revealed, and you start to answer a basic but important question: Is this worth investing in long-term?
That kind of connection is still possible—even if you meet online. But you’ll need to be intentional. The internet doesn’t make it easy to slow down or stay grounded. There’s a lot of noise, and it’s easy to confuse chemistry with compatibility.
That’s where courtship can help. It gives you a structure to move from initial interest to something more solid—if it’s meant to last.
If you’ve met someone special and wonder how to proceed there are some important things to consider.
6 Things You Need to Know about Online Courtship:
1. Safety Comes First
Before courtship comes caution. You don’t need to approach dating with paranoia, but you do need to be careful. Not everyone online is who they say they are. Do some digging. Google them. Look for consistency across platforms. See if their story checks out.
And be mindful of what you share early on. There’s no reason to hand over your address, workplace, or financial details to someone you just met—no matter how charming they seem. Curiosity is good. Transparency is important. But trust is earned, not assumed.
2. Watch for Manipulation
Unfortunately, some people use dating apps to manipulate rather than connect. You may encounter someone who’s more interested in getting something from you—money, attention, access—than in building a relationship.
Pay attention if they ask for too much too soon, profess love before you’ve even met, or seem to always be in crisis. These are common tactics. Also be wary if they push your boundaries or pressure you to move faster than you're comfortable with. If something feels off, it probably is. Healthy people won’t rush you or guilt you for needing space.
3. Move Offline When It Feels Right
It’s easy to get caught in a loop of texting and video calls, especially if there’s strong early connection. But courtship isn’t meant to live in the digital world forever. It has to transition to real life at some point—if the relationship is going to grow.
Start local if you can. Long-distance dating adds a layer of complexity that’s hard to navigate early on. And once there’s enough safety and interest, make plans to meet in person. Texting is convenient, but it can’t replace the experience of being together and seeing how things feel face-to-face.
4. Take Your Time
Online dating moves fast. Most apps are built to keep you swiping, comparing, and deciding quickly. But real relationships don’t work that way. Courtship needs space. It’s a slow process of discovery—where attraction deepens into real knowing, or doesn’t.
Instead of rushing toward answers, allow the relationship to unfold. Give yourself room to ask questions, observe, and actually feel what it’s like to be with this person over time. Can you talk openly? Do your values align? How do they handle stress or disappointment? These things don’t show up in the early glow of attraction. They reveal themselves slowly. Let them.
5. Keep Your Relationship Private (Especially at the Start)
If you’ve met someone promising, resist the urge to share everything online. Yes, a few cute photos are fine. But real intimacy grows in privacy—not in public posts. Social media has a way of turning relationships into performances. And that pressure can derail something good before it has a chance to take root.
Keep most of your connection between the two of you. Don’t default to texting as your only form of communication. Make time for real conversation. Don’t use Instagram or TikTok to manage your relationship. The strongest bonds are built offline.
6. Red Flags Aren’t Just Warnings—They’re Information
Courtship is meant to reveal who someone really is—and whether you’re a fit. Don’t overlook signs that something’s off. If there’s dishonesty, disrespect, or controlling behavior early on, it’s not going to magically get better.
Pay attention to:
Lies or inconsistencies in their stories
A temper that shows up when things don’t go their way
A reluctance to meet your friends or family
Any behavior that makes you feel isolated or unsure of yourself
These aren’t minor issues. They’re signs that this relationship may not be safe—or sustainable. If you see red flags, talk to someone you trust. You don’t have to sort it all out alone.
A Therapist Can Help You Navigate the Process
If you’re dating online and want to be thoughtful about how you show up—or how you choose the people you let in—I can help. Therapy is a place to sort through patterns, clarify boundaries, and figure out what you really want in a relationship.
Whether your courtship leads to something long-term, or simply teaches you something important about yourself, it’s worth doing well.
If you want support while you’re dating, reach out. Let’s figure it out together.
To schedule a session with Daniel Hope, MA, LMFT Associate, at the Relationship Counseling Center of Austin, call (512) 270-4883, or complete the online Scheduling form and someone will be in touch with you shortly. We look forward to hearing from you.
To learn more, click here: Individual Therapy
Sleep Anxiety: What to Do When You Can’t Go to Sleep or Stay Asleep
Is sleep anxiety driving you to the edge of exhaustion?
Sleep should be a natural thing. It should be the one way to safely escape the cares and worries of the day. But what if sleep is the thing that causes you the most distress?
Is sleep anxiety driving you to the edge of exhaustion?
Sleep should be a natural thing. It should be the one way to safely escape the cares and worries of the day. But what if sleep is the thing that causes you the most distress?
Perhaps you worry that you won’t be able to sleep. Perhaps you fret because you won’t stay asleep. Maybe sleep comes with dreams and nightmares that make sleep more stressful than restful. Or maybe your anxiety about sleep stems from the fear that your insomnia might affect your health and relationships negatively.
Sleep anxiety steals the rest and mental quiet we long for naturally. To feel that it is out of reach creates a sort of performance anxiety in us that can preoccupy our minds and create bodily tension that keeps a sleepless cycle going. We want to put ourselves to sleep but anxiety gets in the way and then, anxiety about being too anxious to sleep makes things worse!
What to do about sleep anxiety? Consider the following ideas:
What to Do When You Can’t Go to Sleep or Stay Asleep
Seek Help Sooner Rather Than Later
Why suffer longer than you need to? Sleep-induced overwhelm is no way to work or live. For a while, you may need both medicinal and therapeutic interventions. Often, treating both anxiety and sleep disruption requires the joint effort of both types of professionals. Working with a physician and a therapist helps cover any physical and emotional bases that may be contributing to your sleep anxiety.
Try Not to Ignore Anxiety During the Day
Face your anxious thoughts and concerns to mitigate challenges and cope with uncertainty and overwhelming as much as possible before bed. Accepting anxiety early on, rather than avoiding it, can actually be empowering.
Don’t Watch the Clock
Avoid counting the minutes until bedtime or counting down the hours until morning. This only serves to exacerbate sleep anxiety. Simply put the clock face down or turn off the display on your phone.
Consider the Comfort of Routine
Establishing a nighttime routine is very helpful for grounding you and redirecting your thoughts as the night approaches. Winding down predictably, removing stimulus early in the evening, and soothing yourself with a bath or dim lighting is often helpful. Limit screentime and keep work out of your bedroom. Consider repeating a soothing phrase to slow or stop racing or unproductive thoughts.
Don’t Discount the Impact of Your Diet
Sometimes certain dietary choices or habits can feed anxiety and insomnia. Consider your caffeine intake: too many coffee runs or sodas throughout the day can intensify anxiety and ruin attempts to relax. Additionally, monitor the amount of alcohol, sugar, and processed foods you ingest. Consider when you eat and the size of your meals. Play with portion control and time of day to see if this contributes to better or worse sleep.
Further Foster the Link Between Body and Mind
Also, you can discharge restless energy and discomfort with some somatic (body-oriented) work. Deep breathing techniques, meditative relaxation practices, or even light physical exercise may help you manage anxious feelings. Practicing these methods periodically before bed can help you relax and help you make the mind-body connection necessary for sleep.
Are You Ready to Rest?
According to the National Institutes of Health, upwards of 40 million Americans struggle with the combined effects of anxiety and long-term sleep problems. You are not alone and you don’t have to work through your exhaustion on your own. Let us help. Together, we can determine how to help you to address the issues that keep you up at night. Read more about how therapy for anxiety can help. When you’re ready, please contact us for a consultation or to schedule a session.
To schedule a therapy session with Jessica Nesis, call the Relationship Counseling Center of Austin at (512) 270-4883, or submit a form on our Scheduling page.
Learn more about self-care in individual therapy here: Individual Therapy.
RCC Austin Recommended Read: Why We Remember
Purchase this book and support your local bookstore here:
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RCC Austin Recommended Read: On Our Best Behavior
Purchase this book and support your local bookstore:
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Defining Your Body & Sexual Values: You Have the Right, Here’s How to Start
In our society, sex is everywhere, yet it remains a somewhat taboo topic. We’re used to seeing sex on TV, in movies, or in advertisements, yet we can blush at the thought of discussing it with a close friend or partner. If you’re more reserved when it comes to sexuality, you might be labeled as a “prude” and told to loosen up; but if you’re open about sexuality, you’re criticized and told to be more modest.
In our society, sex is everywhere, yet it remains a somewhat taboo topic. We’re used to seeing sex on TV, in movies, or in advertisements, yet we can blush at the thought of discussing it with a close friend or partner. If you’re more reserved when it comes to sexuality, you might be labeled as a “prude” and told to loosen up; but if you’re open about sexuality, you’re criticized and told to be more modest.
It’s not easy defining your body and sexual values in a society that is so ambivalent about sex itself. In reality, there is no right or wrong answer when it comes to embracing your sexual values. If you don’t know where to start, consider these tips to help define and embrace yourself and your sexuality in whatever way feels most comfortable.
Don’t Be Ashamed of Your Sexuality
It’s normal and natural to have sexual desires, and it is not wrong to act on them. As you start to explore your sexual values, try to let go of shame or guilt about your sexuality. Some people feel that they need to repress their sexuality because they’re taught that it’s “wrong” or “immoral.” As long as you’re exploring your sexuality in a safe and consensual way, there is no reason to feel ashamed. The more you work towards letting go of stigmas about sex, the easier it will be to define your sexual values.
Focus On What You Want and Not What Others Want
While we should define our sexual values based on what we want, it’s not always that easy. Because of your upbringing or social circle, you may feel obligated to define your sexuality in a certain way. Though it’s hard to break free from the noise, you should try to push past others’ opinions to figure out how you feel about your sexual values.
Whether you want to enjoy casual sex or wait until marriage, you should focus on what you want and not what others push on you. Our society greatly influences how we think about sex, but you have the right to break free of these standards and write your own rules.
Follow Your Instincts
Our instincts are reliable and serve as a guide for what feels right or wrong. This gut feeling is incredibly useful, and you can also use it when you’re exploring your sexual values. How do you feel when you think about your sexual desires or fantasies? If you’ve experimented in real life, did it feel good, or did you feel anxious about it? Our intuition gives us great insight into underlying fears and anxiety we may have about sex. Trust your gut and allow it to aid in your decision-making as you establish your sexual values.
Be Willing to Learn
Even people who have firmly established their sexual values can learn a thing or two sometimes. A big part of embracing your sexual values is understanding the experiences of others. There is no single definition of sex or what it means to have sex. People have varying opinions about it — none of them necessarily being wrong. You may learn about sexual values by having meaningful conversations with people who have different opinions. Also, by learning more about the scientific aspects of sex and your body, you’ll be more informed to make decisions about your sex life and values.
As you’ve likely gathered from reading this, there is no such thing as “correct” sexual values. Keep this in mind as you move forward and explore your sexual identity. You don’t have to define yourself by others’ definitions of sexual values. Safely explore your sexuality, follow your instincts, and don’t feel ashamed about it — by doing so, you’re well on your way to defining healthy and happy sexual values.
Charla Lineman, MEd, LPC Associate, LMFT Associate, works with couples and individuals at the Relationship Counseling Center of Austin. To schedule an appointment, call (512) 270-4883, or request an appointment on the RCC Austin Scheduling page. We look forward to hearing from you soon!
A Good Connection: What Does it Feel Like With a New or Potential Partner?
When you enter into a relationship with someone new, the first thing people tend to look for is chemistry. Emotional chemistry is a natural flow between two people that never feels forced. Normally, for a short-term relationship, the physical pull is important from the start. As for wanting a long-term relationship, it takes more than physicality to make it last.
When you enter into a relationship with someone new, the first thing people tend to look for is chemistry. Emotional chemistry is a natural flow between two people that never feels forced.
Normally, for a short-term relationship, the physical pull is important from the start. As for wanting a long-term relationship, it takes more than physicality to make it last. It starts out as having the same interests and/or beliefs in common. After a while, it will be easy to look, touch, smile, and be comfortable around them. That person will bring you a sense of warmth that you cannot get anywhere else, making you want to be with that person more and more.
If you want to know for sure what it feels like to have a good connection at the start of your relationship, here are some things to consider.
Eye Contact
When you meet someone for the first time that you find attractive, you may find it awkward to look at them. You may have a tendency to look in the other direction or in the middle of their face.
Once eye contact becomes easy for you after a few encounters, you know it is because the chemistry is there. By looking someone in the eye, you are showing that you have an interest in them.
Smiling
The happiness your new partner brings you can lead to a lot of smiling around them. You find yourself happy when you are with them and you laugh more too. Two people sharing a sense of humor means you can be sarcastic or joke around without misinterpretations or being offended.
It does not require a lot of effort to make the other happy as being in each other’s company is enough. By the time you two say “good night” to each other, you will feel a glow or peace that will last until it is time to sleep.
Easy to Talk to
Too many awkward silences on a date can be very boring without stimulating conversation. The same can be said if you and your date have different beliefs that lead to judgment and fighting.
Being able to click on music, politics, movies, religious views, and more make conversations a delight. There is no need to justify anything you say or apologize. You are so comfortable with your partner that you suddenly find yourself talking to them for hours.
You Can Be Yourself
If you feel like you need to pretend to be someone else in order to click well with someone you have feelings for, the relationship is not authentic. You should never have to feel the need to change your appearance, your tastes, or your personality for someone.
The best person you can be with is someone who accepts you for everything you are. Whether you are in a good mood or a bad mood, they will not turn away from you. There is no pressure to be impressionable because your new partner is already impressed.
A Natural Flow
The surest way you can tell the chemistry is there between you and your new partner is when everything feels right when you are with them. You can easily go with the flow and be your natural self. The two of you are able to click on a level different than anyone else.
You may find yourself surprised how at ease you feel around someone after the first few dates. Once you sense the undeniable chemistry with no awkwardness or self-doubt, hold onto it. If you find yourself still confused about the connection you have with your new partner, seek out professional help.
We specializes in working with individuals and couples at the Relationship Counseling Center of Austin. If you are seeking support as you navigate the early days of a new relationship, we are here to help. Schedule an appointment by calling (512) 270-4883, or complete our Scheduling form online.
Learn more about individual counseling here.
RCC Austin Recommended Read: The Dance of Anger
Find out why Sylvia Beligotti is recommending “The Dance of Anger by Harriet Lerner to her clients.
How You Can Prevent Sacrificing Your Mental Health During the Holidays
The holidays can take a toll on our mental well-being. While we strive to enjoy and show gratitude around the holidays, it’s easy to become overwhelmed by the stress of it all. And, because the holidays are often about giving, it’s easy to spread yourself too thin.
The holidays can take a toll on our mental well-being. While we strive to enjoy and show gratitude around the holidays, it’s easy to become overwhelmed by the stress of it all. And, because the holidays are often about giving, it’s easy to spread yourself too thin.
Many of us tend to sacrifice our mental health for the sake of others — but it doesn’t have to be this way. It’s possible to be available to others while still prioritizing your mental health. With the right strategies, you can end this holiday season feeling refreshed, happy, and healthy.
Put Yourself First
In our society, we tend to think that it’s selfish to put oneself first. However, it isn’t selfish at all. If you want to be kind to those around you, you have to be kind to yourself first. You can't pour from an empty cup. When you’re satisfied with your life, you can then help other people such as family or friends authentically. Don’t feel like you’re obligated to brighten everyone else’s holiday season at the cost of neglecting your own. Care for yourself first so you can care for others next.
Stay Organized
When stress hits during the holidays, it is often due to poor planning or lack of organization. You can eliminate stress by staying organized. Are you in charge of bringing a dish to a holiday gathering? Start looking for recipes early, so you’re not rushing to make something at the last minute. Does holiday shopping leave you feeling overwhelmed or stressed? Get a head start and do your shopping little by little. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed when you have several things to do at once. Take your time and spread out your tasks — your mental health will thank you after the holidays are over.
Take Time for Yourself
There’s an emphasis on spending time with family and friends around the holidays. While many of us enjoy doing so, it doesn’t mean you shouldn’t have any alone time.
Make time to spend completely alone — not at work, not with your kids or spouse, and not with friends or extended family. Even simple routines like enjoying a cup of coffee in silence or reading a book can do wonders for your sense of peace. When you do spend time with family, you’ll feel much more patient, too.
Don’t Be Afraid to Say No
It can be hard to say no, especially around the holidays. However, saying no is something that we all need to do sometimes. If you’d rather spend Christmas Eve at home than with extended family, you should do so. If your family makes you feel guilty, remember that you aren’t in the wrong. We are all still trying to navigate our own safety and well-being, and it’s okay to set boundaries that help you achieve those. By saying no instead of begrudgingly going along with something, you’re taking a large stride towards maintaining your mental well-being.
Talk to a Therapist
Even with these tips and strategies, you may still feel overwhelmed this holiday season. Fortunately, a therapist can help get you through even the most stressful moments. Many people feel alone when it comes to stress, but it doesn’t have to be this way. Therapy is more accessible than ever before, and your therapist can provide you with even more resources and tips.
We sacrifice a lot for others, but mental health doesn’t have to be one of those things. If the holiday season leaves you feeling overwhelmed or stressed, keep these strategies in mind as you move forward. One of the greatest gifts we can give ourselves is good health, so be kind to yourself and prioritize your mental well-being this holiday season. Once the holidays are over, you’ll feel refreshed and ready to take on a new, happier year.
Contact the Relationship Counseling Center of Austin for guidance on setting important boundaries for yourself this holiday season. Our therapists can provide tips, feedback, and support as you work to uphold your needs for self-care during the hustle and bustle of the holidays. To schedule a session, you can call our main office at (512) 270-4883, or request an appointment on the RCC Austin Scheduling page.
For more information: Individual Counseling
How Creating an Exercise Routine Will Benefit Your Mental Health
With the wonderful spring weather, many are feeling inspired to start or improve their fitness routine. There are many reasons you may want to start exercising, and nearly all of them are beneficial.
Perhaps you have a fitness goal in mind that you want to fulfill. Or maybe you want to find an exercise routine to improve your physical health. Have you ever considered, however, that finding an exercise routine may improve your mental health?
With the wonderful spring weather, many are feeling inspired to start or improve their fitness routine. There are many reasons you may want to start exercising, and nearly all of them are beneficial.
Perhaps you have a fitness goal in mind that you want to fulfill. Or maybe you want to find an exercise routine to improve your physical health. Have you ever considered, however, that finding an exercise routine may improve your mental health?
Though often overlooked, exercise can significantly improve your mood and overall well-being. By finding the right exercise routine, you may see just as many improvements in your mental health as you do in your physical health.
The Link Between Exercise and Mental Health
Exercise and mental health have a tightly knit relationship. A healthy, active routine can help ease both depression and anxiety symptoms. When you remain sedentary throughout the day, you may notice that it affects your mood. By establishing an exercise routine, you can work out your mind as well as your body.
How Exercise Improves Mental Well-Being
There are many reasons why exercise is good for the body. When it comes to mental health, even the simplest of activities can stimulate your brain and improve your mood.
For starters, exercise releases natural endorphins, which elevate your mood and make you feel happier throughout the day. Exercise also reduces stress, helps you feel more energized, and improves relaxation — all things that are beneficial if you struggle with depression or anxiety.
Over time, regular exercise also helps improve your sleep. Sleeping is essential for our well-being, especially when it comes to mental health. When you don’t get enough sleep, it can drastically impact your day-to-day life and contribute to depression and anxiety.
By adding regular exercise to your daily routine, you may notice that you sleep better at night. When you sleep better at night, you wake more refreshed in the morning and have an easier time getting through the day with a balanced mood.
Routines Help Maintain Mental Health
When it comes to improving mental health, routines can help establish better behaviors. If you have depression or anxiety, you may find it hard to accomplish specific tasks throughout the day. Though you have things that you want to get done, mental illness makes it difficult to achieve these goals.
When you establish a routine, it’s easier to check off your day-to-day tasks. As you become more accustomed to a routine, it helps structure and guides you through your day. Exercise routines are no different. It’s not always easy to add exercise into your daily schedule, but once you do, your body will adjust. Over time, exercise will feel like a natural and happily anticipated part of your day.
Getting Outside Helps Improve Mental Health, Too
Not only does exercise improve mental health, but it encourages you to get outside, which is also beneficial. By getting out and going for a walk or run, you also naturally enhance your mental well-being.
Sunlight and fresh air also help improve our mood and health, so the more you get outside, the better off you’ll be. Finding time to get out, especially in the winter months, may be a challenge. However, even quick walks or runs, even stretching in your back yard or on your deck or patio, can do wonders for your health.
Establishing an Exercise Routine That Works for You
Some people find it easy to exercise, while others struggle to fit it into their routine. There isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach to exercise, so you shouldn’t compare yourself to others.
Instead, you can start by implementing simple activities, like going for a walk, into your daily routine. If it feels right, you can increase to a run or try other physical activities like yoga or sports. Take it at your own pace and experiment with different exercises to find what feels most comfortable for you. Over time, your body and mind will thank you for your new, healthy routine!
Sylvia Beligotti, MA, LMFT Associate, works with clients at the Relationship Counseling Center of Austin. Please feel free to reach out today for more help establishing a regular exercise routine or improving your mental health. Request an appointment with Sylvia by calling (512) 270-4883, ext. 128, or submit an online appointment request on the RCC Austin Scheduling page. We hope to hear from you soon.