Rediscovering My Love for Exercise: A Journey to Enhanced Mental Well-being

As a therapist, I often emphasise the importance of physical activity for mental health. However, it wasn't until recently that I truly reconnected with this principle on a personal level. My journey back to exercise has not only revitalised my physical health but has also profoundly impacted my mental and emotional well-being.

For the majority of my adolescents and early twenties I wasn't that interested in any forms of exercise. That was until my first longterm relationship ended and I sought solice through occupying myself with all manner of things, some more healthy and helpful than others. My good friend and new house mate suggested running, so after completing my first painful jog of probably less than a mile, his next suggestion of signing up for a marathon seemed like a logical next step.

Many years and a few marathons later, running had become my go-to form of exercise and something that I did every day. Yet, it always felt like a love/hate relationship, one that I would slowly allow to slip into obscurity, as life's demands took over, and what once was a passion became a distant memory. Looking back now, I can see that discovering yoga was a significant part of this, as I feel it gave me what I needed at the time, which was a sense of feeling grounded and being part of a community. Which in comparison to the isolation of running does make sense.

However, a significant setback in my fitness journey came when I tore my meniscus, which forced me to completely give up running and yoga for several years. The frustration and disappointment of being unable to engage in these activities weighed heavily on me, which I allowed to become all consuming and stopped me from even trying. Through years of inactivity and self-doubt, I created a mental block rather than a physical one and I chose to ignore my needs, despite the clear signs that began to show.

Fast forward to more recently and I'm happy to report that it was a client that inexplicably sparked my desire to pull out and dust off my running gear. I’m unsure why, but I can easily put it down to learning and growth on both sides of the therapeutic relationship, which probably deserves a blog post in itself.

The initial steps back into running were challenging, but slowly, I began to feel that old familiar joy. Each run became a therapeutic escape, a time to process my thoughts and reconnect with myself. The rhythm of my breath and the steady beat of my heart became a meditation, grounding me in the present moment and washing away the stress of daily life.

However, recently discovering a local Hot Pod Yoga studio has been a game-changer. The warmth and supportive environment of Hot Pod Yoga have allowed me to ease back into yoga practice, providing both physical and mental healing. The gentle heat helps to soothe my joints, while the mindful movements and deep stretches have reignited my love for yoga, offering a renewed sense of balance and peace.

But my fitness journey didn't stop there. I discovered a new love: bouldering. This form of rock climbing, done without ropes, requires not only physical strength but also mental acuity. The problem-solving aspect of bouldering captivated me. Each climb is like a puzzle, demanding focus, strategy, and determination. The sense of accomplishment after reaching the top is exhilarating. Bouldering taught me to trust my instincts, push my limits, and celebrate small victories. It has been a powerful reminder of the resilience and strength within me.

Additionally, I have incorporated High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) into my routine. HIIT workouts, known for their efficiency and effectiveness, fit perfectly into my busy schedule. These intense, short bursts of exercise followed by brief rest periods have significantly boosted my energy levels. The variety and intensity keep me engaged and motivated. After each session, I feel a rush of endorphins, a natural high that leaves me feeling invigorated and happy.

The transformation I've experienced through running, bouldering, and HIIT is nothing short of remarkable. I've seen firsthand how regular exercise can reduce anxiety, improve mood, and enhance overall mental health. The physical exertion clears my mind, allowing me to approach life with a fresh perspective and renewed vigor. I've become more present, more patient, and more at peace with myself.

I think we all know that a healthy body and a healthy mind are explicitly linked, but like my own journey, it's very easy to forget. Therefore, in my therapy practice, I now share my personal experiences with my clients, encouraging them to find physical activities they love. The key is not just to exercise but to discover what brings joy and fulfillment. Whether it's running, bouldering, HIIT, or Hot Pod Yoga, the benefits extend far beyond physical health. Exercise is a powerful tool for mental well-being, offering a natural way to combat stress, anxiety, and depression.

Rediscovering my love for exercise has been a transformative journey. It has reminded me of the profound connection between body and mind and reinforced the importance of prioritising self-care. I encourage you to explore different forms of exercise, find what resonates with you, and embrace the positive changes it brings to your life. The path to mental and physical health is a personal one, and it's never too late to start.