Exercise’s impact – when you are emotionally and mentally low (my personal case study)

The Overlooked Factor: Mental Condition in Exercise

As a fitness coach, I thought I had it all figured out – nutrition, exercise, and sleep (the physical parameters). Before 2020, I hadn’t been sick since 2014. But that year, despite taking care of my nutrition, exercise, and sleep, my body seemed vulnerable. My exercise routine consisted of 2-3 days of active strength training and 2-3 days of running. Despite sticking to my routine, I fell sick repeatedly. It started with Chikungunya in September 2020, followed by a severe viral infection with high-grade fever in October 2020, a stye in my eye in January 2021, and mild COVID in April 2021.

The struggle

Every time I recovered from an illness, I’d restart my routine, focusing on building immunity. However, instead of getting stronger, I kept falling sick.

The Turning Point

In 2020, I was going through emotional turmoil on personal level. But I felt I must continue with my routine at least to save further damage. But my body and mind were unable to cope up with my exercise routine because it was quite active and mind was seeking something else. During my COVID quarantine, I felt I need re-examine and reflect on my approach. I realised my body and mind are seeking peace, comfort, and relaxation – not intense workouts.

A New Approach

I shifted from high-intensity strength training and running to passive strength training, movement, mobility, swimming, and walking. This new approach helped calm my mind, build immunity, and regain strength. It was a very soothing experience both for my body and mind

The Key Takeaway

Mental and emotional health plays a huge role in choosing the right exercise. It’s not about quitting exercise, but about finding a balance that works for you. Now, I incorporate both active and passive workouts into my routine, based on my physical and mental health status and it helps me stay rooted.

Choose Wisely

Listen to your body and mind. Find an exercise routine that nourishes both your physical and mental well-being.