Harmony Between the Body and Mind

We all know that feeling when we just can’t seem to get going. We drag our feet, we procrastinate, and every little thing feels like a huge effort. Or what it feels like to be drowning in stress with no way to turn it off.?

But what if I told you that the key to overcoming those feelings could be as simple as getting up and moving your body?

Your body and mind are connected in ways you may not realize. For example, did you know that movement can help improve resilience? That’s right – research has shown that regular exercise can help you become more resilient to stress. The same stress that causes depression, anxiety and illness. The same stress that keeps us up at night and frantic during the day.?

• Medical research estimates as much as 90 percent of illness and disease is stress-related.?
• Stress can interfere with your physical functioning and bodily processes. High blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, and heart disease have been linked to stress factors.
• Emotional stress is a major contributing factor to the six leading causes of death in the United States: cancer, coronary heart disease, accidental injuries, respiratory disorders, cirrhosis of the liver and suicide.

These statistics aren’t to scare you (although they should)… When I read things like the bullet points above, I can’t help but feel more encouraged to just go out for a walk or jump in the pool for a swim.?

There’s More

It’s not just stress and resilience that benefit from movement – happiness does too. Studies have shown that people who are physically active are generally happier than those who are sedentary. Why? One big reason is that exercise releases endorphins, which have mood-boosting effects.?

Resilience and happiness – two essential qualities for change-proof living – can be deeply impacted in a positive way through movement.?

There’s Even More

When our bodies are healthy, we’re likely to feel better mentally and emotionally as well. In addition to alleviating stress and the potential for disease, we tend to be more stable and have more clarity around our emotions and mental state.?

In this world we are currently living in, there has never been a more appropriate time to take control of our physical, mental and emotional health. If you are struggling to cope, sit down with your calendar and schedule time to build resilience through daily rituals and exercise.?

Taking care of your body is one of the best things you can do for your mind and your resilience. Exercise has been shown time and again to be one of the most effective ways to boost our mood and increase resilience in the face of stress. When we move our bodies, we release endorphins, which have powerful mood-lifting effects. In addition, exercise helps to improve sleep quality, reduce inflammation, and increase energy levels. All of these benefits make it easier to pivot when life gets tough and weather stressful situations with grace.

The next time you’re feeling down or stuck, try getting up and moving your body. Taking a walk, going for a run, or even just dancing around your living room can make a world of difference.?