This article was posted by CrystalWind.ca.
Can Being Physically Fit Help You Feel More Spiritual?
Written by Sally Benson
The fact that spirituality is inexorably tied to mental health is no longer a substance of debate. A plethora of studies indicates that those who make time for a rich spiritual life are happier, less depressed, and less likely to suffer from anxiety. One study, published in JAMA Internal Medicine, found that even small amounts of spiritual based training (in this case, meditation) can improve anxiety, depression and pain.
Another study by the London School of Economics found that participating in a religious organization was the only activity promoting lasting happiness. As noted in a fascinating article in Time, “Some experts think that believing in a religion gives you a greater sense of purpose and meaning in life than a secular viewpoint alone does, and that can help carry you through the low periods and elevate the higher ones.” Does it work the other way around, however? Does being physically help aid human beings with their quest for spirituality, or enhance their ability to engage with their ‘collective unconscious’?
Sport as a Religion
Harvard academic, Professor Casper ter Kuile, has noted that these days, spirituality can be achieved in many ways apart from organized religion. One of these, is through fitness. In an article entitled CrossFit as Church? Examining How We gather, he notes: “Instead of worshiping in old wooden church pews, Millennials are jumping on top of wooden boxes until exhaustion at CrossFit affiliates, and it's not just to replace a trip to church with a workout.” CrossFit is a global phenomenon boasting over 4 million ‘followers’. Rather than simply honing the muscles, however, it also offers fitness buffs the chance to form part of a close-knit community made up of people who are focused not only on self-improvement, but also on helping others achieve their aims. Working out regularly serves many important functions; as noted by ter Kuile’s colleague, Professor Angie Thurston, CrossFitters “are in communities that are some ways mirroring the function that religious communities have served. These communities are helping people aspire toward goals, transform themselves, and work toward change while holding each other accountable to make things better.” They are boosting creativity, purpose, and innovation – all of which are as useful for individuals as they are for society.
Being Unfit Affects the Psyche
Many studies have been carried out into the mental benefits of keeping fit. As noted in a 2015 study by S Djalalinia et al, obesity (which can result when human beings lead sedentary lifestyles) is linked to poorer social and sexual health. Obesity affects self-esteem, mood, and body image, which can make it less likely for individuals to engage in communal worship or form part of a spiritual community such as that mentioned above. It is a bit of a Catch-22 situation, since, as noted by the researchers, “lower levels of spiritual well-being is correlated with higher levels of emotional eating, especially in women. There is some evidence that, emotional eating contributes to impaired nutritional behaviors such as higher caloric intake, binge eating, and bulimic eating desires.”
Exercise boosts one’s self-confidence and enhances one’s sex life. However, it also has important effects on spirituality, owing to its effects on boosting our desire and motivation to form part of a spiritual community. These days, people are finding crucial support in CrossFit and other fitness regimes that emphasize working for others as much as for oneself. In this new era, spirituality can be found as much in a yoga class as it can while mountain biking with friends, meditating, or completing a record amount of burpees at one’s next CrossFit session.
Sally Benson is a professional freelance writer with many years experience across many different areas. She made the move to freelancing from a stressful corporate job and loves the work-life balance it offers her. When not at work, Sally enjoys reading, hiking, spending time with her family and travelling as much as possible.
This article is written exclusively for CrystalWind.ca. © 2018 crystalwind.ca. All rights reserved.
© 2018 crystalwind.ca. All rights reserved.
Join the Conversation Now! Comment Below!
Disclaimer Health
All post and information provided within this blog is for educational and informational purposes only, and is not to be construed as medical advice or instruction. No action should be taken solely on the contents of this website. Please consult with your healthcare professional before making any dietary or lifestyle changes or taking supplements that may interfere with medications. Any products or information discussed are not intended to diagnose, prevent, treat or cure any illness, disease or lifestyle. Please consult your physician or a qualified health professional on any matters regarding your health and wellbeing or on any opinions expressed within this website.
Spirit Animal Totem Of The Day!
Crystal Of The Day!
Latest Articles
The Crystal Wind Oracle
Myth & Magic Card Deck!
Details Here!
NEW Expanded
Printed & Boxed!
Now with 58 cards!
CrystalWind.ca is free to use because of
donations from people like you.
Donate Now »
Unlock Your Light: Join Lightworkers Worldwide on CrystalWind.ca!
Follow Us!
Who is Online Now
We have 30099 guests and no members online
Featured This Month
Sun in Aries
Aries March 21 through April 20 An Overview of Sun Sign Characteristics for A... Read more
Aries Mythology
The Mythology of Aries First things first, when referring to the mythology ... Read more
The Time of No Time: Beltane!
Around the medicine wheel of life we go, from season to season (solstice to ... Read more
The Crystal Wind Oracle Card Deck
The Crystal Wind Oracle™ The Crystal Wind Oracle Myth & Magic Card D... Read more
Bright Beltane Blessings!
The wheel turns to Beltane, also known as Mayday, marking the beginning of S... Read more
Budding Trees Moon
Red Hawk - Fire Opal - Dandelion - Yellow March 21 – April 19 The Budding Tr... Read more
Green Aventurine
The Emotional Balancer Stone Green Aventurine is perhaps the best balancing... Read more
Aries Spiritual Stone - Eudialyte
Eudialyte Birthstone: Aries Planet: Mars Element: Fire Chakra: Heart E... Read more
Birth Totem - Falcon
Birth Totem Falcon Birth dates: March 21 – April 19 Birth Totem is: Falcon... Read more