#160 - Back to regular scheduled programming!

This is me, the mic, ya'll listening, no notes and whatever is on my mind. Thanks for listening, take what you want, leave the rest.

I am back from the summer off and getting back to "regular scheduled programming" and happy to be. Over the summer (and quite often) I got asked a lot about working out, why, what do I do, what do I listen to, what do I take. So I thought it would be fun to answer these questions and knocking the rust off getting back at it.

Also it goes with welcoming the newest member to the nation. Composure. Check these guys out and drop them a note welcoming them to the nation.

Composure - https://composurelifestyle.com/ use the code RAW

Mentions:

Highspeed Daddy - https://www.highspeeddaddy.com/?rfsn=7178368.317ce6

Live Rishi - Use the code "TABLE50" get 50% off your entire order - https://liverishi.com/

Me - https://berawpodcast.com/

'til next time

Working out serves as a powerful antidote to many of life’s struggles. For centuries, physical activity has been intertwined with mental well-being, offering individuals a pathway to fend off what some might metaphorically call "demons"—those internal battles like stress, anxiety, depression, and self-doubt. In today’s world, where many face increasing pressure and mental health challenges, exercise remains a lifeline that offers not only physical but also emotional and psychological relief.

At its core, exercise is about movement, and movement sparks a cascade of biochemical reactions that improve our mood and help combat feelings of sadness or overwhelm. The body produces endorphins, commonly referred to as the "feel-good" chemicals. These neurotransmitters act as natural painkillers and mood elevators, providing an instant sense of well-being after a tough workout. They help alleviate feelings of anxiety and depression, which often manifest as those metaphorical demons. Regular exercise is like a maintenance dose of these chemicals, creating a buffer against these negative emotions.

Moreover, working out introduces structure and discipline into life, both of which are key elements in mental health management. When a person is committed to a workout regimen, they’re establishing a sense of routine and control. In a chaotic world, this control can be a grounding force, helping them ward off the feelings of helplessness that often accompany stress or emotional distress. The commitment to physical health often translates into a sense of achievement and mastery, offering a counterbalance to feelings of inadequacy or failure. Each completed workout becomes a victory, a reminder of the individual’s strength and resilience.

Additionally, physical activity demands focus. Whether it’s lifting weights, running, or practicing yoga, exercise forces the mind to stay present. This mindfulness aspect of working out is crucial, as it draws attention away from rumination and negative thoughts. In the middle of an intense workout, the mind is too occupied to entertain anxiety about the future or regrets about the past. The only focus is the next rep, the next step, or the next breath. This temporary escape from mental clutter offers relief and allows the brain to reset, creating space for clarity and renewed perspective once the workout is done.

Beyond the immediate mental health benefits, the long-term effects of working out are equally profound. Regular exercise improves sleep, a critical component of emotional regulation. Without adequate rest, the mind becomes vulnerable to intrusive thoughts, heightened stress, and emotional instability. By promoting better sleep quality and duration, exercise equips the mind to better manage its emotions and combat those internal demons that often emerge when we are mentally or physically fatigued.

Another crucial aspect is the community and sense of belonging that often accompanies a consistent workout routine. Whether through group fitness classes, team sports, or gym camaraderie, exercising alongside others fosters a sense of connection. Human beings are social creatures, and feelings of isolation can exacerbate mental health issues. By engaging with a fitness community, individuals create a network of support, further shielding themselves from the demons of loneliness and disconnection.

In sum, working out is far more than just a physical activity—it’s a tool for mental fortification. It boosts mood, instills discipline, promotes mindfulness, enhances sleep, and fosters connection. When these elements align, the demons of stress, anxiety, and depression are kept at bay, allowing individuals to feel more empowered, resilient, and in control of their mental and emotional well-being.