It's Mind Over Matter

I’m having the most amazing fitness summer! This year I decided to increase my level of fitness. I’m taking a different approach by trying new sports and participating in fitness classes that I once avoided.  One of the fitness classes is the "dreaded" spin class.  Admittedly, I attended a spin class many years ago and vowed that I would never do it again. Because of that one experience (that I did not enjoy), I convinced myself that this activity was not designed for me. After years of watching others go in and out of spin classes excited about their experience, I finally mustered up enough courage to try it again.  I’m happy to say, I conquered my fear of spin and it is now a class that I truly enjoy!

In addition to spin classes, I’m regularly attending kickboxing, strength training and yoga classes. I enjoy bike riding in my favorite parks and because I live in Georgia, hiking, running and walking at Stone Mountain Park has become one of my favorite routines. While it is challenging, I enjoy every moment of it! Whether, I am training with fitness coach, LaTasha Lewis at Tadda’s Fitness Camp or on my own, I can hear her voice encouraging me with the words; “It’s mind over matter.”

I am very active on social media, often posting about my exercise and wellness routines. Because of the things I post about my own fitness journey, people have been inspired and many have started exercising due to my example.  I wish I could boast that I never get tired or experience moments when I do not want to work out.  It is not easy to get out of bed before dawn, especially when you manage a busy family and lifestyle such my own.

Over the years I have developed a thinking skill that is vital to my success in every area of life. Here’s what I have learned:

      Be Quick To Think Differently - I have learned to lasso negative thoughts before they dominate my mind. One of my best practices is the recitation of scripture and famous quotes that teaches me to think in a positive manner.

         Focus On The Big Picture  – When working out, I focus my mind on the benefits of a healthy lifestyle and away from the temporary pain or struggle I may be experiencing at the time. When I view the workout as a necessary component to my overall health plan, I am able to make direct correlations between my thought patterns and my ability to accomplish the task at hand. 

     Train Your Mind To Think Positively - So many times we set out to accomplish something difficult and immediately negative thoughts will take over causing us to quit.  Training your body requires that you train your mind. Thinking positively about what you are doing gives you the energy and strength that you will need to finish well.

While your workout or whatever you are facing may be difficult and challenging, at the end of the day, you have what it takes to meet every challenge. Whether it is exercise, healthy eating, accomplishing a task related to a goal, school, or work, how we think really affects our ability to accomplish our dreams. I leave you with one of my favorite Biblical passages for your meditation, “Begin to think on the Word or begin to sing a praise song to God. Make a conscious effort to fill your mind with good, pure, wholesome, and lovely thoughts (Philippians 4:8 Amp. Version).

Remember, ‘It’s Mind Over Matter!’

Dr. Toni

www.drtonialvarado.com