How Meditation Can Help You Get Fit

Are you feeling overwhelmed by the idea of getting fit? All those sit-ups and lunges can be daunting, especially if you let stress get in the way. 

Well, we just so happen to have an ancient method of dealing with that dreaded feeling—meditation! 

Yes, we said it: meditation might be the key to achieving your fitness goals without all the frustration. 

It may be counterintuitive since we often associate fitness with vigorous gym sessions. Still, the truth is that getting fit is, to a considerable extent, a matter of recovery.

And meditation can help with just that.

Let's discuss it!

What's Meditation

Meditation is an ancient practice that focuses on a person's mental state. It encourages individuals to redirect attention inward and focus on their physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. 

Meditation can be used as a vessel for relaxation, allowing you to rest your mind, body, and spirit while gaining perspective on the world around you. 

In the modern era, there are numerous ways to approach meditation, ranging from guided sessions and mindfulness techniques to silent reflection. 

Of course, results vary among individuals; some benefit more than others regarding mental clarity and physical relaxation. But regardless of outcomes, it is a powerful tool that enables one to take control of their mental state whilst diving into endless possibilities for personal growth.

Meditation Shifts Brain Activity

The ability to meditate and slow down brainwave activity has been known to have immense benefits for mental health, particularly in reducing stress. 

Through regular meditation, individuals can learn to bring awareness to the present moment and quiet the mind. 

Why is this important for fitness? Well, stress hinders recovery and growth within the body, and as we know, recovery is crucial in getting fit.

As evidence continues to mount supporting the notion that deep concentration leads to physical shifts in brainwave activity, understanding the importance of incorporating meditation into our daily lives becomes clearer.

Today's Stress

In today's world, stress is an unfortunate reality for many. Fast-paced lifestyles and the pressure of day-to-day expectations can take a toll on physical and mental health. 

From ever-growing workloads to relationship complications, stress manifests in numerous forms and can affect well-being. 

Recognising the signs of stress is key to managing it, such as identifying triggers, developing coping skills, maintaining a balanced lifestyle, and leaning on support systems when necessary. 

Indeed, training is a great stress reliever, but practising a meditative state outside of the gym can, too, be highly beneficial for consistent stress management.

The Simplest Meditation

Breathwork, or paying attention to your breathing patterns and rhythms, is at the heart of meditation practice. 

It is a simple yet effective tool for calming your mind and body, diving deeper, and connecting with your inner consciousness. 

The simplest way to begin practising breathwork is by inhaling gradually over 5-6 seconds, then exhaling slowly over 6-8 seconds. 

You can do this anywhere. Sitting comfortably in a quiet space, walking outside, or even standing in line at the grocery store. 

You can start with a minute and gradually increase the duration of your practice.

With time, the meditative state may become default, creating a calmer and happier you.

Final Thoughts

If you're not managing your stress, you're not managing your fitness. 

Luckily, there are many ways to keep stress at bay; one of the most effective is meditation. 

So take a deep breath, close your eyes, and clear your mind – it might just be the best few minutes you will ever have!