A Labor of Joy (Ron Otto)

Why is physical exercise so often viewed as a joyless experience? It’s almost as if thinking about it reminds people of the story of Sisyphus, the mythological king who deceived the Gods and was punished by having to roll a huge boulder up a hill only to have it roll back down, and cursed to repeat this futile labor through eternity.

Like many people I’ve struggled with getting into the habit of regular physical exercise, but now it feels very natural and the joys of exercise are very real. I include among these joys:

1. reduced stress, anxiety, depression and irritability – the joy of being in a good mood
2. a mental break from overthinking, worries and ruminative thinking patterns – the joy of taking a mental break and having a fresh mind
3. setting a goal of 2 ½ hours of moderate to vigorous weekly exercise and often reaching this goal – the joy of achievement
4. focusing on the immediate (the pattern of my breath and the rhythm of my steps) and not the distant past or uncertain future – the joy of being in the present moment
5. enjoying the sensory and soothing qualities of nature – the joy of nature and the outdoors
6. breaking the cycle of inactivity and being actively involved in the healing process – the joy of active, productive participation
7. experiencing normal fatigue and improved sleep quality – the joy of a good night’s sleep
8. improved energy and motivation – the joy of positive energy
9. less negative expression (criticizing and complaining) and the clearing of suppressed emotions – the joy of relating to self and others in positive ways

Physical exercise has enormous benefits for mental health and well-being. And as we look to develop a more integrated and holistic health care system, exercise-based interventions may become standard care. After all, what harm is there in prescribing joy?

For additional reading on exercise and mental health, check out “Exercise for Mood and Anxiety Disorders: Therapist Guide” by Jasper A. J. Smits and Michael W. Otto.

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