A regular fitness regimen is important to keep one’s body healthy and fit. But exercise is also important for the mind. In addition to controlling waistlines and firming muscles, regular exercise can reduce stress, improve self-esteem, and provide valuable downtime away from the daily rigors of everyday life.

Yoga, Tai Chi, and stretching are popular forms of exercise that people turn to in order to de-stress and re-charge their minds.

“Since we all live a fast-paced life, it’s nice to slow down,” said Cindy Bockelman of Bayview Fitness in Poulsbo, which offers yoga and stretching classes. “This type of exercise puts people in a low-key atmosphere and allows them to focus on breathing techniques.”

Judy Denney of Kanaloa/Bent on Yoga in Poulsbo agrees that breathing exercises are an important component for keeping your mind healthy.

“The breath really sets the tempo for the body,” said Denney. “Learning the art of breath is one of the most valuable de-stressors.”

“One of the concepts behind yoga and why people find it easy to relax with yoga is that it’s very effective in making the body quiet,” said Denney. “Until your body is quiet and stretched out, the mind doesn’t have time to be quiet.”

Denney’s studio also offers free meditation classes, teaching students about pulling awareness into the breath, and achieving an empty mind. A common misconception about meditation, says Denney, is that the goal is to meditate on something. What meditation is really about, she said, is quieting the mind.

For those who want some of the benefits of meditation without formal mediation study, Denney recommends walking.

“Walking is a great form of mediation. Getting off the pavement, getting back into the world,” said Denney. “Walking and observing while walking draws you away from your turmoil.”

Running, biking, aerobics, and other strenuous, cardio activities also offer mental benefits.

“It’s proven that cardio exercise — anything where you’re getting a good sweat going — releases chemicals in the brain that give you a feeling of satisfaction and well-being,” said Jennifer Wiebusch of Olympic Fitness in Port Orchard.

The increased oxygen intake that comes from regular cardio exercise means that more oxygen is getting to your brain, making you feel more alert.
Just as with exercise that benefits the body, choosing the right exercise to keep the mind healthy is a personal decision, based on lifestyle, individual goals, and individual preference.

“The important thing is to be active and choose things that you enjoy doing,” said Bockelman.

“We have to have downtime,” said Denney, no matter what form that takes. “Just find something that you love to do.”.