Feel the burn (emphasis on the “feel”)
Mindfulness isn’t just for yoga and meditation y’know. Even the most hardcore fitness fanatics can benefit from the use of mindfulness techniques.
The Greater Good magazine at Berkeley defines mindfulness as a “moment-by-moment awareness of our thoughts, feelings, bodily sensations, and surrounding environment.” Practising mindfulness while working out means that you remain fully present — so no mind wandering, calorie math, or comparing yourself to the person next to you. Need a reason to give it a try? How about I give you four:
Physical Gains
I know it can be tempting to try to “distract yourself” from the temporary burning sensation that accompanies an especially intense workout (been there!) But it’s actually better for your body to remain conscious of how it feels. Focusing your attention on the exercise at hand can help to ensure that you are using the right muscles. Listening to your body can also reduce the risks of injury and over-training. Whether you’re targeting strength, endurance, or flexibility, all of this contributes to better quality of movement, improved performance, and more physical gains!
Mental Gains
But the benefits don’t stop there. Mindfulness also improves focus and concentration by increasing the grey matter in your brain. If yoga and meditation aren’t really your style (or even if they are!) practising mindfulness while working out is a great alternative. Psychologists have also done a lot of research on the concept of “flow,” or “being in the zone.” Flow is best described as when you are fully immersed in an activity that you enjoy, stemming from mindfulness. Flow increases energy, skills, and self-efficacy.
Emotional Gains
Exercise’s power to reduce stress and anxiety is even greater when combined with mindfulness. This is because while exercise relieves tension and increases serotonin, mindfulness increases awareness and reduces cortisol. Exercise is also a great way to escape the troubles of everyday life — but if you’re not careful, these troubles can take over and distract you from your escape! Mindfulness makes sure that you stay in the moment so you can fully enjoy your workout. Plus, working out mindfully can help you to form a stronger connection and a more positive relationship with your body.
Fun!
Finally, practising mindfulness while working out is fun! If you haven’t been practising mindfulness, you might not know this — but working out actually feels good. As a pleasure-seeking species, we are more likely to repeat an activity if it makes us feel good. And the more you exercise, the better you feel… see where I’m going with this?
