Summer in Motion

By Luc Mahler, Chiropractor

After what felt like an endless stretch of gray, frozen sidewalks, and bone-chilling temperatures, it seems winter has finally loosened its grip on the Ottawa Valley. This past season dragged on forever—now, as we step cautiously into the light of spring, it’s worth pausing to reflect on just how long and dreary this winter truly was and how, more importantly, with the thaw comes an invitation: to reignite our joy, strength, and connection to nature—time to shake off the weight of winter and rediscover the pleasures waiting just outside our doors!

There’s something refreshing about summer. The longer days, the golden light, the freedom in the air—it’s a season that calls us to move, to breathe deeper, and to reconnect with the world beyond our screens and routines.

At The Movement Co, we believe movement is more than just exercise; it’s medicine. And summer is the perfect invitation to rediscover this.

Move for Joy, Not Just Fitness

When was the last time you moved just for the joy in it? Not to hit a fitness goal or for the kudos on Strava—but simply because your body craved it?

Whether it’s hopping on your bike for a sunset ride, getting out for a jog, or taking a long walk with no destination in mind, movement in summer doesn’t have to be structured. It can be spontaneous, playful, freeing. This kind of movement releases stress, lifts your mood, and reminds you that your body is your ally, not your enemy.

Build Strength by Being Present

At the clinic, we often talk about resilience—not just physical, but mental and emotional. Summer offers countless opportunities to build this kind of strength by being present in your movement.

Feel the muscles that carry you up a hill. Notice how your breath steadies as you find your pace. Listen to the quiet sounds of nature as you walk or ride. This isn’t just exercise; it’s therapy. It’s a moment to be completely with yourself.

Summer Is the Ultimate Training Partner

You won’t find a better gym than the summertime outside your front door. The trails, the roads, the lakes—they’ll be open and waiting. Moving outdoors has been shown to reduce anxiety, boost immunity, and spark creativity. Add in a little sunshine and you’ve got nature’s best version of a reset button.

Whether you’re cycling the bike paths of Ottawa, hiking in Gatineau Park, or stretching on your balcony as the sun rises, this is your season to move with nature.

Make Summer Your Turning Point

If the past year with our long, dreary winter has felt heavy or static, let this be your turning point. Let summer be the season you start again—not with pressure, but with presence. Begin with one mindful movement a day. See where it leads. Just remember, at The Movement Co, we’re here to support you with care that meets you where you’re currently at with your movement.

So, all this to say: this summer, give yourself the gift of movement that heals, builds, and optimizes not just your body, but your whole being.

Summer is in motion. Are you ready to move with it?