How working out benefits your mind too

Yes, regular physical exercise benefits your heart, other muscles and your body. But what happens to your mind and soul when you commit yourself to hitting the gym can be just as beneficial. .

Obviously, there are practices specifically targeted to the mind-body connection, most obviously many varieties of yoga. While some yoga is physically demanding and will work many structures of the body, other varieties are meant to heighten awareness of your body’s function, ability and performance. Awareness, of course, is a mind-based exercise in and of itself.

Many martial arts also take the mind-body connection into account. This is often achieved in this particular discipline by focusing on the actions of the body. Success in martial arts is often achieved by dedicating oneself to mindful, purposeful bodily actions. The state of the mind needed to accomplish these maneuvers successfully works the mind at the same times as working the body.


Other than some specific types of bodily disciplines as outlined above, your mind and emotional states can be enhanced in other ways, too, even by workouts involving the treadmill or rowing machine.

For example, most kinds of exercises provide immense relief to the brain and emotional systems simply by virtue of stress relief. Why does exercise feel so good and provide such relief? Two reasons: First, exercise provides an outlet for the energy that builds up from stress. This is a positive manner to transfer that pent up adrenaline that results from the traffic, family, work and social aspects of our lives! Secondly, physical exercise has a definite physical effect on the brain- a chemical effect that works to positively impact mood and emotions. The exact science of these feelings is still being investigated.

Social factors also weigh in on the mind-body connection when exercising. Many attendees tend to hit the gym with a familial or friendly partner. This obviously can generate a mood boost in the brain that is then associated with the gym visit. Social support networks are one of the most important aspects of human life and human health, and that daily or weekly bridge-building bodes well for all relationships. If you’re a loner at the gym, what better place to reach out and connect?

Last, but certainly not least, the rise in positive self esteem that coincides with regular physical activity is bound to be a mental lubricant. The mood boost that results from a job well done is the first rise, followed by the inevitable pride that comes from taking care of your body and health. This self esteem boost is likely to keep the athlete coming back for more!

Sure, hitting the gym is a physical excursion that can leave your body tight and your heart pumping, but regular physical exercise also impacts another important part of your life: your emotional and mental health. So get out there!

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