Reboot your Mental Health with FS8

Time to get real about an often-overlooked aspect of your fitness journey – mental health. Let’s cut through the jargon and explore how regular exercise, especially FS8, can be your secret weapon for mental wellness. Learn what makes mental health tick, why it’s crucial, and five easy ways FS8 can help you stay mentally strong.

Hot take: mental health isn’t just a state of mind.

Mental health is your overall psychological well-being. It’s not just about feeling happy all the time (although that’s awesome too!), but about having the resilience to handle stress, anxiety, and life’s ups and downs. Think of it as the foundation that supports everything you do.

Why Fitness Matters for Mental Health:

• Stress Reduction: Exercise releases feel-good hormones like endorphins and serotonin, acting like your body’s natural stress busters. They help you feel more relaxed and less anxious, turning bad days into manageable ones.
• Better Sleep: Regular physical activity can improve the quality of your sleep, helping you wake up refreshed and ready to tackle the day.
• Enhanced Mood: Ever heard of a runner’s high? That mood-boosting effect isn’t just for runners. Any exercise, including FS8, can leave you feeling happier and more energized.
• Social Connection: Exercising with others can reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation. The community vibe at FS8 classes helps you build relationships and feel more connected.
• Improved Focus: Physical activity can boost concentration and alertness, making you more productive and focused in your everyday tasks.

5 FS8 Hacks for Mental Health:

1. Join a Class: Sign up for FS8 classes regularly. The mix of yoga, Pilates, and tone helps release those feel-good hormones and provides a sense of accomplishment.
2. Practice Mindfulness: During your workouts, focus on your breathing connected to movements. This mindfulness practice can reduce anxiety and improve your mood.
3. Build a Routine: Consistency is key. Plan your workouts like any other important appointment. Regular exercise can help regulate your mood and reduce stress.
4. Engage with the Community: Make connections with others in your  FS8 classes (especially those on the 30-Day Strength Reboot!). Building relationships and having workout buddies can enhance your sense of belonging and support.
5. Take It Outside: If possible, get outside at least once throughout your day for 15-20 minutes. Fresh air and nature can amplify the mental health benefits of your workouts.

So, there you have it – five simple ways FS8 and simple lifestyle changes  can help you reboot your mental health. By incorporating these tips into your routine, you’ll be on your way to a happier, healthier you!

References

Stress Reduction:

• “The effects of exercise training on mental well-being in the normal population: a descriptive review” (Paluska, S.A., Schwenk, T.L. Sports Med. 2000) – Link

Better Sleep:

• “Exercise improves quality of sleep: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials” (Kredlow, M.A., et al. Sleep Med Rev. 2015) – Link

Enhanced Mood:

• “Physical activity and exercise for depression and depressive symptoms: a systematic review and meta-analysis” (Schuch, F.B., et al. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2016) – Link

Social Connection:

• “Social interaction and physical activity” (Stathi, A., et al. Int J Behav Nutr Phys Act. 2012) – Link

Improved Focus:

• “The Influence of Exercise on Cognitive Abilities” (Hillman, C.H., Erickson, K.I., Kramer, A.F. Nat Rev Neurosci. 2008) – Link