Importance of Body Mind Exercise
If you are interested in keeping fit then you should explore the connection between body and mind exercise. In order to be truly well one can’t simply exercise the body. The body and mind work together to create optimal health. Thus when you exercise one you automatically exercise the other.
Talk to any holistic practitioner and they’ll tell you that to be healthy you must make sure your body, mind and spirit are well cared for. That’s easily said but how do you do it?
Types of Body Mind Exercises
So how do you exercise the body and mind? You are probably familiar with many body exercises. Jogging, biking, aerobics, weight training… these are all examples of physical exercise that exercise the body. There are also some exercises that exercise the mind and body at the same time. A perfect example is Yoga. Yoga incorporates deep breathing, meditation and physical exercise to promote ideal health. There are many different forms of yoga you can engage in depending on your fitness goals. Some examples of popular practice include:
- Bikram Yoga – This is sometimes referred to as ‘sweat’ yoga as it is performed in a hot room that encourages sweating. This can help your body remove toxins and help clear your spirit.
- Hatha – This is a basic form of yoga that is often more slow paced and gentle. It is a good way to introduce yourself to yoga.
- Vinyasa – This is a form of yoga that includes synchronized breathing and vigorous poses.
- Ashtanga – Ashtanga yoga is a faster paced form of yoga that is physically demanding and requires a good deal of concentration.
- Iyengar – This form of yoga focuses more completely on body alignment.
- Kundalini – Kundalini also emphasizes breathing and physical movement in part to help free up energy in our lower body making it more available for our use.
Other popular forms of body mind exercise include Pilates and Tai Chi. Tai Chi consists of a series of gentle and slow movements combined with breathing and meditative exercise. Pilates is an exceptional form of exercise that not only helps lengthen, strengthen and align the body’s muscles and ligaments but also promotes breathing, inner reflection and healing.
Body Mind Healing
You might consider combining your body mind exercises with body mind healing practices, such as Reiki, massage or acupressure. All of these ancient art forms help promote balance in the body, mind and spirit. There have been multiple studies supporting the use of body mind work to heal the body naturally. If you are interested in one of these art forms you should consider trying out a session. Massage is often the easiest way to experience body mind healing without getting too involved in holistic practices if you are a little hesitant at first. A good exercise program combined with any routine massage or other natural healing regimen will not only help strengthen your body but help boost your immune system, promote your self confidence and self esteem and help keep you feeling energetic and healthy.
How do find a qualified practitioner? Ask around. Chances are you know one or two people who have enjoyed the health benefits of massage, acupressure or some other form of natural healing. Most gyms also offer classes in Pilates, yoga or other body mind exercise classes. Consider trying one or two until you find something that works well for you and your schedule. Ultimately you body and your mind will thank you!
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