The Power of Movement: How Fitness Transforms Mind, Body & Life
March is Women’s History Month, a time to celebrate strong, inspiring women in our community. At Firefly Wellness, we believe in the power of self-care—whether through skincare, massage, or movement. To highlight the benefits of fitness, we sat down with Jessica, owner of Mission:Fit, to discuss how movement impacts overall well-being and how anyone can incorporate exercise into their routine.
Jessica’s Journey: From Passion to Purpose
Jessica’s path to fitness entrepreneurship started with a passion for inclusivity and movement. Initially, she aimed to become the CEO of Special Olympics, which led her to pursue a master’s degree in nonprofit management. At the same time, she enrolled at the National Personal Training Institute to gain experience in movement-based programs.
After moving from Massachusetts to California, she discovered an opportunity to coach in Mission Hills. Soon after, she took over an existing fitness business and rebranded it as Mission:Fit. Now, nearly ten years later, she has built a welcoming space where people feel supported and empowered.
“Seeing the strength gains of the women and men that come into the studio and the support they give one another is the most rewarding part of my journey. I’m proud of the community I’ve built and look forward to the future.” – Jessica, Mission:Fit Owner
The Benefits of Movement: More Than Just Fitness
Exercise does much more than build muscle or burn calories. It enhances overall well-being by improving sleep, reducing stress, and boosting mood. These benefits make movement essential for both physical and mental health.
Common Misconceptions About Fitness
Many people hold misconceptions about fitness, but Jessica clears up some of the most common ones:
🚫 Lifting heavy causes injury – When done correctly, progressive overload (gradually increasing weight) is both safe and effective.
🚫 Cardio is the best way to lose weight – While cardio has benefits, high-intensity sessions longer than 15 minutes turn into moderate-intensity exercise, which isn’t the most efficient for weight loss, especially for women over 40.
🚫 One workout a week isn’t enough – Any movement is better than none! A 30-minute session once a week still provides benefits and is a great place to start.
How Movement Complements Spa & Self-Care
Regular movement works beautifully alongside spa treatments and self-care routines. Exercise improves circulation, reduces stress, and enhances mental clarity, making massages, facials, and wellness rituals even more effective.
“Movement is a great practice on its own, but when paired with self-care, the physical, mental, and emotional benefits are amplified.” – Jessica, Mission:Fit Owner
Easy Ways to Add More Movement to Your Day
Even with a busy schedule, small changes can make a big difference. Here are some simple ways to incorporate movement into daily life:
✔ Take the stairs instead of the elevator – Small choices add up over time.
✔ Stand up and stretch every 45 minutes – Short breaks improve circulation and reduce stiffness.
✔ Stay hydrated and eat whole foods – Proper nutrition supports energy and movement.
Staying Consistent: Find What Works for You
Maintaining motivation can be challenging. However, Jessica suggests exploring different types of movement to find what feels enjoyable:
🎶 Dance
🪴 Gardening
🚶♀️ Walking
🏋️♀️ Strength training
🧘♀️ Yoga
“The best movement is the one you will do!” – Jessica, Mission:Fit Owner
For her, movement is essential for mental health. Since she has two young children, she prioritizes morning workouts to stay consistent.
Final Advice: Find Joy in Movement
Jessica’s top advice for prioritizing health? Find a hobby that makes you happy.
When movement is enjoyable, it becomes a natural part of a balanced lifestyle.
At Firefly Wellness, we encourage you to celebrate Women’s History Month by investing in your health and self-care. Whether through fitness, massage, or mindful movement, find what works for you and embrace wellness in all its forms!
Ready to Move?
If you’re looking for a supportive fitness community, check out Mission:Fit in Mission Hills here. And if you need post-workout recovery, schedule a massage at Firefly here for ultimate self-care!
