BREAKING THE STIGMA:FITNESS AS A WAY TO IMPROVE MENTAL HEALTH

As we approach BellLetsTalk day here in Canada we get our yearly reminder of the importance of mental health, the struggles of confronting this silent killer, and finding ways to express our collective concern on the matter.

Granted I feel it is a topic that needs more consistency in the light of social media and public conversation. As mental health takes nearly 4000 Canadian lives a year (Edgwoodhealthnetwork) it is a serious problem. It shouldn't take a life for something to be a problem. Millions of Canadians deal with some form of mental health issues and never consider taking their lives but continue to live with the burden of an unhealthy mental state. Breaking the stigma should be a staple of day to day conversation as it takes the collective effort to listen, to speak out, and to share.

For myself and many others fitness plays a vital role in our day to day routines. It has become somewhat of a live saver for many, and escape for many others. From a biological standpoint the act of physical activity releases dopamine and endorphins that make us feel good. Therefore, promoting the implementation of physical activity into our daily lives can provide a great deal of benefits, paying testament to the saying "A healthy body is a healthy mind".

Mental health doesn't stem solely from genetic predisposition or the onset of environment related diseases. It festers over time through self resentment, disappointment, feeling of pressure and failure. Now more then ever, given our current global climate with Covid-19 there is a considerable concern for the mental wellbeing of our global citizens. The shear lack of resources and access to gyms and areas to perform physical activity has left many people in a bad mental state. Gaining a few pounds, losing competitive edge, and or ability to play/compete in sport has been a path to mental health issues, one in which many are taking. This is why it is vital that we collectively promote daily exercise, sign up for online classes, do what we can with what we have, and work together to continue cultivating our personal goals, competitiveness, and self assurance.

I talk for many when I say fitness is a solace, a place to beat demons, and refresh the mind. In a time where things are uncertain we need to band together and continue finding ways to move and groove. The best way you can help is to reach out to people, invite friends for walks, go on YouTube and follow a workout, buy a program...the options are endless and there will always be a set of ears to listen, a voice to tell stories, and a hand to hold.

Be the helping hand you want when dark times fall upon you.

Only together can we beat the stigma and rise above the dark shroud of mental health.

If you need someone to talk to, or wish to join my online community to continue reaching your fitness goals, I am always free to contact, my info is below.

Always remember you are never alone, no matter how dark times get, there is always someone who is willing to listen.

"Progression is built through consistency and tested by passion"

JB

Email: etxtraining@outlook.com