How Physical Activity Can Help Our Mood and Mental Health

When we think of the benefits of physical activity, images of toned muscles, weight loss, and improved physical stamina might come to mind.

However, the benefits of consistent movement stretch far beyond the visible benefits. For centuries, various cultures recognized the therapeutic value of exercise, not just for the body but also for the mind.

In ancient civilizations, the positive impact of physical activity on mental health was often acknowledged, albeit indirectly. The Greeks worshipped both the mind and the body, emphasizing a harmonious balance between the two. The famous maxim “Mens sana in corpore sano” which translates to “A sound mind in a sound body,” encapsulates this sentiment. The Greek physician Hippocrates also hinted at the idea, prescribing walks for mental well-being.

Science today offers explanations to what ancients intuited – exercise directly impacts our brain chemistry. Physical activity increases the production of endorphins, which are natural mood lifters. Additionally, it reduces the level of stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline. That’s why after a good workout session, you often feel a ‘high’ or a sense of euphoria. This is colloquially known as the “runner’s high,” though you don’t necessarily have to be a runner to experience it!

At The Athleticus in Gulfport, Florida, we’ve witnessed the transformative power of regular exercise on mood and mental well-being. As a boutique personal training studio, we pride ourselves on our intimate, one-on-one interactions. It’s always rewarding to see the post-workout glow on our clients’ faces. While they might be exhausted from the session, the satisfaction and sense of accomplishment are evident.

Consider one of our clients, for instance. She walked in one day, slightly under the weather, with a nagging backache and fatigue from recent travels. She wasn’t at her best. We began her session with gentle foam rolling to ease her muscle tension. Being mindful of her state, we then transitioned into a moderate workout. As the session progressed, her energy surged! It was as if the exercise was rekindling her spirit. By the end, she was rejuvenated, expressing gratitude to the trainer, saying, “my back feels so much better now and I’m ready to take on my day, thank you.” This goes to show that it won’t always take weeks to months to feel the effects of physical activity. It can happen instantly.

The Therapeutic Power of Routine and Community

Physical activity, especially when done routinely, brings about a sense of discipline and structure to one’s life. For individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, or other mental health challenges, this predictability can be incredibly therapeutic. The act of setting a goal, like walking a certain distance or breaking through a lifting plateau, and achieving it can foster feelings of accomplishment and self-worth.

At our training studio, in Gulfport, we’re always thrilled to witness the joy in our clients’ eyes when they nail a challenging exercise with impeccable form or set a new personal record by lifting heavier weights. These victories, though seemingly small, play a significant role in boosting their self-confidence and morale. It’s all about embracing a challenge and emerging triumphant. Moreover, group activities such as group workouts, dance classes, or team sports offer community support. The shared experience of moving together not only boosts our mood but also strengthens our sense of belonging and purpose.

Jumping back to the ancient Greeks. The Olympic Games, which began in Olympia in 776 BC, weren’t just about competition; they were a vital cultural and religious festival that brought various city-states together. Athletes from different regions would train rigorously and then compete, not just for personal glory but for the honor of their cities.

At The Athleticus personal training studio, we truly cherish training couples. Their shared journey not only fosters a sense of community between them but also deepens their bond as partners, be it significant others or spouses. Engaging in fitness together offers them a unique bonding opportunity, setting the foundation for a shared commitment to a healthier lifestyle at home.

The Grounding Nature of Physical Presence

Physical activity is more than just a path to physical well-being; it’s a doorway to mental and emotional balance. Delving into exercises, whether it’s jogging, weightlifting, or dancing, allows us to be deeply present. Amid the hustle and bustle of everyday life, our focus shifts—centering on the rhythm of our breath, the intentional movements of our body, and the world around us.

This deep presence mirrors mindfulness, a state of non-judgmental awareness of the present moment. Even if stumbled upon through exercise, this mindfulness has numerous mental health advantages.

For one, it shields us from the unyielding onslaught of spiraling thoughts, often negative, that can ensnare us in a loop of needless worry. By anchoring ourselves in the present, our minds find a welcome break from such cycles.

Furthermore, being mindful enhances our emotional intelligence. In sync with our bodies and surroundings, we become more attuned to our feelings. This clarity allows us to face emotions like anger, sorrow, or anxiety with thoughtful reflection rather than being overwhelmed by them.

To draw an analogy, consider a boat caught in a turbulent storm. Without an anchor, it’s tossed mercilessly by the waves, much like our minds can be swayed by a flurry of emotions and thoughts. Mindfulness, achieved through physical activity, acts as that anchor, stabilizing the boat amidst the tempest, allowing us to navigate life’s challenges with steadiness and grace.

We often find that clients love training with us for health benefits, of course. But also for having this time of working out as a grounding experience for them. It can provide stability in their wild schedules. Or give them a connection with their body again in a world that values knowledge work more and more.

In Conclusion

The link between our physical actions and mental state is an ancient wisdom that science today only further substantiates. While we often chase the newest therapy or the latest self-help trend, the age-old solution of moving our bodies remains a potent remedy. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or someone who’s just starting to incorporate movement into your routine, remember: that every step, stretch, or stride is also a step towards better mental health.