Since time immemorial, great civilizations have discovered and utilized the link between physical fitness and clarity of being. In the ancient civilizations of India, Greece and Rome physical fitness was given the highest importance – our title is in fact derived from the old Latin saying “mens sana in corpore sano”. This connection works on multiple levels and being aware of each aspect can really motivate you to have a fitness regimen as an integral part of your practice of self-improvement.

Stress relief

During the day all the annoyances and troubles of the day slowly build up in our nervous system, turning us into the human equivalent of pressure cooker! But when we do some physical exercise all that stored up energy suddenly finds a channel through which it can operate. So when you finish, not only do you have that feel-good physical factor, but also an enhanced sense of mental clarity.

Going beyond

We all know that deep inside us there is boundless inner potential waiting to be fulfilled. One way which many people tap into this infinite potential is through sports. Through sports, you gain access to a sense of joy and fulfillment that comes from transcending your own finite capacities. In a way, aiming to better your capacities through sports has a lot of similarities to meditation. As you near the limit of your capacity, you find that it is in fact your mind and its negative thoughts which often stand in the way of you going beyond. And so to really transcend yourself, you also have to go beyond the mind, just like meditation – and when you do you can get some very insightful meditative experiences.

Do One Thing at a Time

We have all tried to juggle several things at once. We also know how stressful and difficult this is. Sometimes when we try to do several things at once, we give ourselves an exaggerated feeling of self importance. However, don’t pile pressure on yourself; value simplicity and do one thing at a time. When you focus on only your current activity, you are not only being kind to yourself; but, also will be able to do things much more effectively.

Give Time for Your Self Improvement

We spend many hours pleasing other people; 8 hours a day in the office, several hours meeting family and friends. Can we not find 15 – 20 minutes to look after ourself? If we can find 20 minutes a day, we can learn how to relax, meditate and find a moment of calm in the rush of daily life. To our surprise we may find that these 20 minutes of quiet reflection makes us more productive and we don’t actually lose any time at all.

Don’t Create Unnecessary Problems

Some problems are unavoidable, and we have to deal with them with detachment and equanimity. However, if we are honest, some problems can easily be avoided. Do you really need to dispute with your colleagues about minor work issues?

Don’t Seek to Meet the Expectations of Others

Some people can be quite demanding and place unrealistic expectations on us. Don’t feel obliged to meet the expectations of others. If you try to please everyone, you will always be striving for an unattainable goal.

Remember Your positive Contributions

Sometimes our mistakes and faults stick in our mind more than the good things we have done. At the end of the day, take time to remember some of the constructive, positive things you have done. This doesn’t have to be big achievements; sometimes a kind word to other people makes a big difference.

Be Happy

Life is there to be enjoyed. Don’t feel that if you suffer you will make more progress. It is when we are happy and in a good consciousness that can we be of greatest service to others.

Tags: Fitness, mediate, self improvement, stress