I wanted to begin this year talking about boxing stress relief.
Like many others, I utilize a variety of tools and techniques to deal with stress. I like to meditate, listen to classical music, and go for long walks in the woods with my Beagle.
But I would have to say that my most effective method of unwinding is boxing.
Now ladies… don’t run away so quickly! While this activity has mostly been a male-dominated one in past decades, times are changing.
Nowadays, there are plenty of women enjoying the positive benefits of “the sweet science.”
So if you’re bored with the same old workout routines and exercises, you may want to give boxing a try…
Turn That Frown Upside Down
Why boxing? Let’s start with the basics. A boxing workout just makes you feel darn good!
By providing a rush of endorphins into your system, it is a very powerful natural mood booster.
Additionally, in order to box correctly, the participant has to focus his/her entire mind and body into the present moment. Therefore, any nagging thoughts which may have been lingering around are forced away.
You might be saying yeah, but couldn’t a good game of tennis do the same?
Well yes…but boxing harnesses the idea of controlled aggression so beautifully. This gives someone who is dealing with anger issues an outlet to release those negative feelings.
It doesn’t matter if you’re mad at your boss, an unruly neighbor, or even that guy who cut in front of you at the grocery this morning.
Hitting or striking an inanimate object can relieve that stress!
Holding it all inside is physically and mentally damaging. Social relationships may likewise suffer as well.
So you see, you don’t have to climb into the ring and fight Mike Tyson or Laila Ali LOL. There are many non-contact classes available which can adequately do the job:)
Talk Softly And Carry A Big Stick
Remember that quote from Theodore Roosevelt?
It refers to being non-aggressive while inwardly being aware that you have the ability to defend yourself when absolutely necessary.
This is what the skill of boxing, or other forms of self-defense, can provide for you.
Once you learn the proper technique through repetitive practice, you will feel more confident and self-assured out in the world.
Most trained fighters instinctively avoid trouble. And with a calm and relaxed demeanor, it usually avoids them as well.
People who typically start trouble are more than likely unhappy with their lives or are under a lot of stress.
It sounds funny, but boxing isn’t about violence. It’s about strengthening your body and mind, lowering levels of stress, and consequently becoming a healthier person overall.
I know in my life it’s kept me sane when all types of circumstances have tested my resilience.
Just listen what London psychologist Felicity Gibbons has to say about her experience:
“A friend encouraged me to try boxing and I haven’t looked back. It’s the one form of exercise I’ve tried where I don’t clock watch and actually look forward to classes. I’ve now been boxing for those four years and it’s had a very positive impact on my life – making me more confident and providing a space to de-stress.”
She also goes on to say how this endeavor has helped her maintain her fitness in other ways, such as eating right, sleeping better, and increasing her desire for other healthful activities like running.
Boxing Pros And Cons
Guys, if you’ve never tried boxing, you will probably find it one of the most complete workouts you’ve ever done.
And ladies, your inherent potential to become powerful and confident can be realized through this art.
It will strengthen your mind and body with its strict discipline while also improving cardiovascular health.
Additionally, you can get more done in less time. Just 20 minutes of hitting the bag or punching the mitts is more grueling than 45 minutes on the treadmill.
There’s an old saying…” You think you’re in shape, until you try boxing.”
The only downside that I can think of is it may be a little expensive to take classes in some gyms.
Even transforming your garage or basement into a boxing fitness facility requires an investment, but this seems to me to be the best course of action.
When completed, you can train whenever you like in complete privacy.
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With the above solution, you should still seek some professional instruction before you get started. Doing so will make the workouts more effective and help avoid injury.
You will probably be very sore for a while until your body adjusts to the intensity of this type of training.
But once you do, you will feel incredibly relaxed and calm after these sessions.
Conclusion
We’ve all heard about the countless studies linking physical activities with lower levels of stress, anxiety, and depression.
Every individual has their own tolerance for different amounts of intensity, and some may prefer yoga or long walks in the woods over the stress of a punching regimen.
Whatever works for you is fine.
It’s also worth noting that boxing uses muscles throughout the entire body, and some may not be used to the kind of soreness and fatigue brought on by this exercise.
If you’re feeling up to the challenge, however, the rewards will surely outweigh the temporary discomfort.
Before taking a class, talk to the teacher and explain your goals to him. Be certain you both understand what you hope to get out of this training, and what the teacher expects from you in terms of commitment.
Getting a physical from your doctor is also recommended.
Once you get going you will not only feel stronger and have better endurance, but you will additionally find that your body and mind are better able to handle life’s other obstacles.
And don’t forget, boxing stress relief is a powerful tool you can use anytime things start to get a little rough.
You can head to the gym or out to your garage and direct all that tension away from your inner self…and relax!
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