More Than Just a Good Sweat
At first glance, suggesting that exercise and a bit of meditation can significantly impact our ability to deal with stress might seem overly simplistic, even dismissive. But there’s a mounting body of evidence that shows this combination does more than just temporarily lift our spirits or give us a good workout. When you intertwine physical activity with mindfulness, you’re not just combating stress in the moment–you’re equipping your mind and body with the resilience to handle stress proactively, which also makes you less susceptible to its negative effects in the long run.
Hold on to Motivation and Overcome Obstacles
Like any start, this too can be hard – be it hitting the gym or finding peace in the present moment while your to-do list is yelling your name. The beauty of combining mindfulness with exercise is that it offers a dual approach to conquering those first steps. Mindfulness, with its roots deeply embedded in being present and aware, enables us to approach exercise with a fresh perspective and helps us to eliminate the barriers of initial hesitation, discomfort, or even the fear of failure. This mental reset can make the journey from couch to 5k (or from chaotic mind to serene spirit) feel not just possible, but enjoyable.
Managing Life’s Curveballs With Elevated Grace
When deadlines loom overhead or when the responsibilities of caring for others feel like mountains too steep to climb, the stress can seem suffocating. Similarly, relocation brings about stressors, from the logistical nightmares to the emotional rollercoaster of leaving the familiar behind. What is more, according to Gitnux, “About 61% of people rank moving at the top of their stress list, higher than divorce or starting a new job.” Through the lens of the study, integrating mindfulness and physical activity into our daily routine could change things immensely – for the better of course. By reducing worry, stress, and anxiety, this combination empowers individuals to face these tasks with a clearer mind and a healthier body.
A Practical Blueprint for Everyday
So, what does this look like in practice? Begin your day with a walk or a jog, not as a race, but as a moving meditation where each step grounds you to the present. Pair this with a mindfulness practice where, for a few minutes each day, you focus solely on your breathing or on the sensations in your body, training your mind to dwell less on the past or worry less about the future. This isn’t about making monumental changes overnight but integrating small, feasible habits that collectively fortify your mental and physical resilience against life’s stressors.
Transformation Through Mind and Body
The study from the Mental Health and Physical Activity journal doesn’t just offer a glimpse into the benefits of marrying physical activity with mindfulness; it serves as a beacon of hope. It’s a testament to the fact that in our unending quest for better health and happiness, sometimes the simplest strategies are the most profound.
This article was written for WHN by Bri Burton, who is a talented wordsmith, an avid blogger, and a health advocate.
As with anything you read on the internet, this article should not be construed as medical advice; please talk to your doctor or primary care provider before changing your wellness routine. This article is not intended to provide a medical diagnosis, recommendation, treatment, or endorsement. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.
Opinion Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy of WHN/A4M. Any content provided by guest authors is of their own opinion and is not intended to malign any religion, ethic group, club, organization, company, individual, or anyone or anything.
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References/Sources/Materials provided by:
https://threemovers.com/how-a-mindful-move-can-improve-your-wellbeing/
https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/exercising-to-relax
https://www.center4research.org/beginners-guide-developing-exercise-routine/
