Use the power of thought to increase your health, fitness and general sense of well being. Just as negative thoughts such as those associated with excessive worry and stress are linked to a range of health problems, positive thoughts have the power to energize you and help you to reach health and fitness goals.
The Connection between Thoughts and the Body
The human mind is powerful and has the ability to impact bodily processes. Individuals who experience persistent depression, stress, worry and sadness often suffer from a weakened immune system and a wide range of health problems, including heart disease and high blood pressure. Thoughts are powerful. They affect your heart rate. When you are embarrassed or scared, for example, your face might turn red, your heart might beat faster and your body temperature might increase. These are all indications that your mind and body are interconnected.
Conversely, positive thoughts can create healing effects in your body. A daily practice of meditation, for example, has been known to reduce stress and increase the body's relaxation and general sense of well being. Meditation lowers the heart rate. It also reduces cortisol levels, which are stress hormones that can harm your body. Meditation has also been known to reduce blood pressure and improve breathing patterns.
Using the Power of Thought to Increase Health
One of the simplest ways to use the power of thought to impact your physical health is to become aware of your thoughts. Meditation as a regimented daily practice is a useful approach. Choose a time of day when your surroundings are quiet and free of distractions. Devoting just 10 minutes a day to this practice can make a difference. Sit quietly and focus on your breath. Breathe normally and relax your body as much as possible. When thoughts enter your mind, simply notice them and let them pass. The goal is to clear your mind and access a sense of stillness and presence.
As you go about your day, pay attention to your thoughts. When you experience stress or frustration, ask yourself what thoughts you are having. For example, if your child is taking too long to get ready in the morning, causing you frustration, stop and examine your thoughts. It may be that you are worried you will be late for work and your boss will be upset with you. Try to replace the thought with something more positive. Think about all of the quality work that you have done in the past for the company and how being a few minutes late might not make a difference in the bigger picture.
Positive Thoughts and Your Workout
Positive thoughts are energizing. When you develop the habit of thinking good thoughts, you will often find yourself empowered to do more with your day. This extends to your workout regimen. People who are depressed have a difficult time sticking to a regular exercise routine. When you consciously control your thoughts, replacing negative mental commentary with positive thoughts, you might find that you have extra energy to work out every day.