At Gritbox, we believe in the power of strength, both physical and mental. This May, in honor of Mental Health Awareness Month, we’re standing tall and swinging hard to break the stigma around mental health. We want to share how movement, community, and mindset can help you reclaim control and fight back against the things that try to hold you down.
Ready to put your mind over matter? Let’s dive into some of our favorite ways to take your power back!
Physical Fitness & Mental Health: A Critical Connection
Let’s get real – physical fitness isn’t just about looking good, it’s about feeling unstoppable. The endorphins released during a high-intensity workout like kickboxing are your body’s natural defense against stress and anxiety, giving you the “feel-good” hormones that often results in what’s commonly known as a “workout high”. These natural mood lifters can alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety, providing a natural and powerful boost to your mental state.
But it goes deeper than that.
Every jab, every kick, and every drip of sweat is a statement: you’re stronger than your struggles. By showing up to the studio everyday, you prove to yourself that you have the discipline and the resilience to conquer your challenges head-on. The dual impact of exercise makes it a critical tool in helping you balance your mental health with your physical.
Finding a Healthy Balance
Physical fitness is a powerful tool, but even the toughest athletes need rest. Over-relying on workouts can lead to burnout and can indicate masking deeper issues. Listen to your body—know when to hit hard and when to rest and recover.
Signs that you or a friend might be relying too much on workouts include skipping social events or responsibilities to exercise, feeling anxious or guilty when missing a workout, or using exercise as the sole coping mechanism for stress. Achieve a balanced approach by incorporating rest days, mixing up your routines, and seeking professional advice when needed. Remember, the goal is to train smart, not just hard.
A Strategy for Anxiety/Depression
Bad vibes? Not today. Head to Gritbox to turn that tension into power 💥
Recognize that these feelings are not not a sign of weakness. Acknowledge it, confront it, and then smash it with the power of physical fitness. At Gritbox, we chose high intensity workouts like kickboxing and HIIT because they’re a perfect fusion of physical release and mental discipline. The rhythm of punches and kicks, combined with focused breathing, can turn chaos into calm.
Beyond the gym, it’s important to harness the power of mindfulness in order to have a multifaceted approach to your mental health. Breathing exercises, meditation, and yoga can be fantastic tools to help you maintain equilibrium. Find what works for you and make it a part of your mental health arsenal. Remember, self-care isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity.
Create A Support System
Being a badass means having each other’s backs. If someone you know is battling anxiety, be their ally. Create a safe space where they can speak freely, without judgment. Sometimes, being a good listener is the best support you can offer. On the other hand, it’s important to have your own support system as well. Whether you have a therapist, a mentor, or a friend, don’t make things harder by insisting on doing it alone.
With that being said, whether it’s a heart-pounding kickboxing session at Gritbox or a tranquil yoga class, exercising with a friend can strengthen both your bodies and your bond. Invite them to join a group fitness class and be each other’s motivators in your journey to self-improvement. Be patient, be consistent, and remember: you are NEVER alone!
May’s Menu
This month, we’re serving up a healthy dose of empowerment with every class. At Gritbox, our goal is to be more than just a fitness studio – we’re a community of ultimate badasses that cares about you. So what are you waiting for? Book your bags today!
