I’ve often wondered where strength comes from. Does it start in my mind, and then work it’s way out? Or does the body set the parameters of how far the mind can go? Is it both?
The Reason for This Blog
The most magnificent reflections in my life come to me when I work out. There are all kinds of science behind why your mind opens up when you’re in beast mode. It’s the reason why many people become addicted to body movement in the first place -myself included.
Before each workout, I set an intention to learn something about my life and world. And then, I record it on this blog to encapsulate my thoughts and then share them with you.
What Was My Intention?
My intention with this workout today was to find out where my strength comes from. Is it from my mind? Or is it dictated by my body?
How Did I Feel Before?
I’m at the peak of my upswing; mind and body are perfectly aligned, and there are no barriers to my mood. I’m physically a little stiff from my weight circuit workout, but other than that, I could move a mountain right now.
What Did I Do?
- Run with friends! 5.5 km outdoor run at a 4:30 km/min pace.
How Do I Feel After?
Pretty damn good. I was surprised how well my body responded to the early morning run in the cool, damp air.
What Did I Learn?
The biggest struggle I will ever have is the relationship between my body and mind. Like a child stuck between two separating parents, my soul is torn between their bitter arguments. If I let my guard down and don’t honour the two bickering sides of my being with proper rest and food, they will feud with each other. And in the wake of that dispute, aches, pains, mystery injuries and sickness crops up.
Your mind is so unbelievably powerful, but it’s powerless without the body to keep it alive. It amazes me how much we pit the two against each other with bad habits and self-harming stress. I understand, we can’t rid ourselves of all stress, but we can break the bad habits that lead to it.
So, where does strength come from? I learned today during my speedy run, that strength only happens when we respect both our mind and body. Incredible strength comes from the harmony that arises when you love them both equally and do your part to get away from the self-harm.
This morning, during my run, I pushed my mind and body, and both responded with ease. This week, I didn’t self-harm and put my mind and body under stress, and I was paid back with unbelievable strength to run faster.