Unlocking the power of physical intelligence

A journey to mental and emotional well-being.

Nov 12, 2023

I've been wanting to write an article on the significance of physical intelligence for quite a while now, but somehow, it's been elusive between my mind and my hand. As Sara Bareilles sings in "Brave," I'll let the words fall out, so please bear with me as I do my best to put into words that which I believe.

Lately, I've been hearing a lot about people feeling tired, and this seems like the perfect opportunity to share what I've learned about the importance of exercise and how it affects our mental health.

In their book, Physical intelligence, Claire Dale and Patricia Peyton refers to the following four essential pillars for physical intelligence:

Flexibility
Strength
Endurance
Resilience

Pillars of physical intelligence

Flexibility

When we feel trapped in a state of survival, rigidity and critical behaviour may surface. When we hold onto the past, we carry rocks in our backpacks the rest of the journey allowing it to define us. Whether we're passing judgment on ourselves or others, this is the moment to ease up and to release. Yes, I know it’s hard to let go sometimes, but you will experience a level of freedom and independence you won’t want to let go of. Ever. You’ll feel lighter and ready for creativity, adventure and new challenges that will come your way.

Now is the time to rest. Let go of physical tension, possible anger, frustrations, and mental worries. While the urge to push past the breaking point may be strong, life should be a series of sprints, not marathons. Take breaks to enjoy life and the surrounding scenery. Reflect on the good, the pure, and things that bring peace and joy and let go of the rocks that weigh you down.

During your stretches, remember to breathe in through your nose and out through your mouth. Inhale goodness, mercy, love, and peace; exhale everything you don't want.

Release.

Strength

After experiencing stressful times, finding yourself in a place of harmony, peace and restoration is pure bliss, but as with all things, there's a time to fight, a time to rest, a time to heal; and a time to rise, to lift your chin, and move forward.

Yes, in the beginning, strength training is challenging. There are moments when you can only manage 15 repetitions (or 5) before your entire body starts to shake, but that's okay. You’ll work up the repetitions. It's part of the process, and before you realise it, you'll be able to complete 30 without shaking.

This is the point where you'll recognise your newfound strength.

Endurance

Every now and then, we encounter those hills or mountains we must climb. Nature would be rather dull without valleys, wouldn't it? And without valleys, there wouldn't be mountains.

Life forms a beautiful painting decorated with mountains, valleys, shadows, highlights, dull colours, bright colours, flowers, trees, sunshine, clouds, butterflies, fireflies, forests, deserts, and everything in between.

We have the privilege of deciding how we paint our life.

Yes, things happen, but we hold the power to turn them around and create something beautiful.

As we climb our mountains, let's remember to take smaller steps and to apply the strength we gained during our strength training.

Resilience

As we navigate through physical challenges, the endurance we build becomes a cornerstone for cultivating mental resilience. This invaluable trait empowers us to persist in the face of adversity, be it physical stress, emotional turbulence, or mental health hurdles. Resilience not only enables us to withstand pressure, but also fosters adaptability and the ability to bounce back, promoting overall well-being.

In a nutshell, this is how exercising is beneficial to us in terms of mental and emotional health. I hope it adds value to you today and that it makes sense to you.

Do you know of anyone who might need coaching in terms of stress management, growth, productivity and / or awareness? I’d love to help. Encourage them to reach out to me by emailing linda@journeywithpassion.co.za.

Amani Wellbeing

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