I remember the many times when I mindlessly lifted weights, just moving my limbs and distracting my mind while having conversations with my friends. Or when I hiked around the woods, listening to music in my headphones.

I used to approach exercise as a means to an end, focusing solely on the physical results it would bring, just to ‘check it off’ the list. Instead of actually savoring the process.

Exercise, any physical activity really, is supposed to be enjoyed. It is supposed to be fun and engaging.

The Yogis have long understood the power of directing vital energy, prana, to specific parts of the body during exercise. And you can only do this if you concentrate your mind on the actual exercise.

In the ancient science of Hatha Yoga, they instruct to pay attention, harness that energy and consciously direct it. This enhances the impact of workouts far beyond what might be achieved through mindless repetition.

Why, if you are already taking the time to do exercise, do it mindlessly? Why not focus your attention on the task at hand? Why not savor every movement? Why not feel the sweat running through your skin? Why not feel the contraction of every muscle? Why not notice the intensity and warmth of every exhale?

Shift your perspective. Instead of viewing exercise as a chore, as something that you have to do, see it as something you get to do. Treat it as a game—a joyful exploration of your body and its capabilities.

Stop doing it mindlessly. Get off the phone. Listen to your body. Give it the attention it needs. Engage with every movement.

Imagine playing in any team sport and scrolling through social media while doing it. Your teammates would be furious at you for your lack of concentration! You wouldn’t do that to them, would you? And yet, when doing a physical activity alone, you do it to your body.

It doesn’t matter if you are running, weightlifting, biking, walking, doing yoga, aerobics or crossfit. Bring your full attention to each movement. Feel the energy flow through your muscles and visualize them growing stronger with every rep, every stretch, every pose, and every contraction. Feel every inhale and exhale.

Approach your workouts with intention and focus, and your body will respond in kind. Do it mindfully and with a sense of playfulness. The results will speak for themselves.

Be grateful for having functional muscles, limbs, joints and lungs. Let your consciousness and vital force flow through every fiber of your being. The joy you will feel for this presence will be the ultimate reward.