Why Traditional Exercise Feels Unsafe and What to Do Instead

For many of us, the idea of movement or exercise can feel overwhelming — even unsafe. We often associate it with high-intensity workouts, loud gym music, or rigid routines that leave us physically drained and emotionally disconnected. But what if we could redefine movement entirely? What if instead of chasing intensity, we began gently, tuning into our bodies with care and compassion?

Movement is more than just physical activity. It is deeply connected to our emotions and our sense of safety. When our nervous system is under stress — perhaps due to trauma, burnout, or constant anxiety — the idea of adding one more demand, like exercise, can feel insurmountable. This is especially true if we’ve internalised cultural messages about how movement “should” look: 45-minute classes, high energy, no pain no gain. These ideals often become barriers, not motivators.

Instead, let’s explore a gentler, more sustainable approach — slowgress.

Slowgress is the idea that progress in movement doesn’t have to be fast or flashy. It’s about meeting ourselves exactly where we are and making the smallest, kindest possible step forward. That might mean walking around the block. Stretching while the kettle boils. Breathing deeply and noticing the sensations in your body. These seemingly small acts build over time, not only strengthening the body, but also creating a deep sense of safety and trust within ourselves.

When we engage in movement this way, we’re no longer fighting our bodies — we’re listening to them.

This is particularly important for people who have a history of anxiety, chronic fatigue, trauma, or pain. The physical symptoms of exercise — a racing heart, shortness of breath, muscle tension — can mimic those of stress and panic, making it hard to separate helpful motion from harmful experience. Without proper support or education around regulation and awareness, many people avoid movement altogether.

But when we learn to notice these sensations without judgement, and work within a safe window, movement becomes a tool for healing. It calms the nervous system, grounds the body, and fosters emotional resilience. It becomes less about appearance or performance, and more about embodiment and emotional clarity.

The key is to shift from goals to standards. A goal might be to do yoga three times a week. But a standard could be as simple as taking a stretch break each day. Standards are habits that support your well-being and honour your energy. They can evolve, just like you.

Movement doesn’t have to be hard to be healing. You don’t need a gym membership, the perfect outfit, or a packed schedule. What you need is a moment — just one — where you meet your body with kindness, and choose to move in a way that honours your story.

Start where you are. Start small. And let slowgress carry you forward.

Movement doesn't have to be intense, painful, or performative. For many, especially those dealing with stress, anxiety, or trauma, traditional approaches to exercise can feel unsafe or inaccessible. It’s time we reframed movement as something nurturing — something that meets us gently where we are.

This reflection was gently inspired by my conversation with Vanessa Leone on Soul Therapy with Chelle. Vanessa is a somatic movement therapist and the creator of the beautiful term SLOWGRESS — a concept that invites us to relate to movement as something tender, intuitive, and grounded in safety, rather than pressure or performance. In our chat, she offered heartfelt insights into how we can reconnect with our bodies in ways that feel supportive, especially when we're carrying stress, anxiety, burnout or past trauma. You can listen to our full conversation here and explore more of Vanessa’s kind and grounding work at vlmovementtherapy.com.

If you’re ready to begin your own healing journey and reconnect with your soul’s true essence, I invite you to visit www.chellegriffin.com to learn more about the transformative spiritual practices and healing services available. Together, we can explore the path toward healing, growth, and sovereignty. You don’t have to walk this path alone—let’s walk it together.