2 Easy Steps to Achieve a Total Mind-Body Workout

Working out isn’t just about losing weight and toning your body. It’s also an opportunity for you to connect to your best self and transform your negative thoughts into more positive, confident ones. When dealing with negative stories or thoughts about yourself or the world, you may find it extremely helpful to incorporate a mind workout along with your physical regimen.  

Here are some steps to take before you head into the gym:

 1) Grab a pen and paper. Spend five minutes writing down your fears and negative thoughts you are currently experiencing. After hashing this out for five minutes, spend the next five minutes on how you can transform them into encouraging thoughts.

Example: Fear: I am not pretty/handsome enough to have the man/woman of my dreams.

Encouragement: I have great physical and emotional qualities that would make any man/woman be lucky to have me.

After the ten minutes are up, spend five more minutes on a fear you want to focus on that day, and write down your encouraging thought over and over again. Let your mind and body relax as you continue to write. Ignore any self-judgment that may come up in your mind as you write.

2) Once you have your affirmation memorized, head to the gym. Crossfit and Martial Arts uses a systematic approach for each workout, so add this positive thought into your exercise routine. As you do each squat, push up, sit up, punch or kick, repeat to yourself the phrase you wrote down before your workout. Maybe even say it aloud.

Your mind is stronger than you think. If you believe you can do something, you will be able to achieve it. Mental toughness is associated with success and athletic power. Once you start to control your mentality while exercising, watch as your experiences in life drastically improve.


Photo courtesy of Geek Philosopher

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