On October 10th we recognize World Mental Health Day. The purpose of this day is to raise awareness of the impact of mental health issues and encourage us to take action and develop strategies to support our mental health and well-being. As I have learned from my years working in the fitness industry, it’s essential to recognize that mental well-being is not just significant as a response to adversity; taking care of our mental health and well-being is a proactive approach that can elevate your personal and professional life or business to new heights. We sometimes forget that our mental well-being is the foundation upon which our physical achievements are built. So let me share with you some reasons just why focusing on your mental health and wellbeing this month is MO’st important.
Shockingly, recent estimates of the prevalence of mental illness in Canada. In any given year, 1 in 5 Canadians experiences a mental illness and the time Canadians reach 40 years of age, 1 in 2 have, or have had, a mental illness at some point in their life (CAMH, 2023) For a long time, there has been a lot of stigma associated with having conversations about mental health and while we still have a long way to go, I’m optimistic things are starting to change. This is an important topic, and it is both a personal and collective responsibility for us to do something about it.
According to the JW Brick Foundation’s Move Your Mental Health Report (2022): “exercise should be integrated into prevention and treatment of mental illness and promotion of mental wellness”. I couldn’t agree MO’re! I have always found so many benefits moving my body for my overall wellbeing. That is why I have dedicated my life to spread the joy of movement and exercise. As a physio, it was my job to help get people MO’ving again! As a group fitness instructor and program director I create functional fitness programs to keep people MO’ving and feeling amazing in their minds and bodies. I’m thrilled to have the incredible Lynne Brick as a featured guest on my podcast A MO’ment with Mo later this month.to talk about the work she does and focus more in depth on the theme of mental health and well-being.
For now, here are my 5 reasons to pay MO’re attention to your mental fitness this MO’nth and some ideas how:
1. Enhanced Engagement and Deeper Relationships: Incorporating mental fitness into your training programs can transform your client relationships. By addressing their mental well-being, you create a holistic approach to health that resonates with clients. This deeper connection can lead to improved client retention, referrals, and overall business growth. Moreover, by prioritizing your mental healthy needs you can enhance and deepen relationships with your significant other, your children, your friends and family, coworkers etc. Being your best self on a holistic level will lead to better long-term and lasting relationships.
2. Customize Your Training Plans: Mental fitness isn’t one-size-fits-all. Just as we tailor workouts to individual fitness levels, we have to find personalized mental fitness strategies. Whether it’s stress management, motivation, or confidence-building, customized plans will set you apart as a caring and results-driven fitness professional. Take time to think about what you need to support your mental wellness and try to build your own toolbox with strategies to support you. Looking for inspiration? Check out my 28 Day Calendar for Mental Health.
3. Resilience and Adaptability: Mental fitness equips you with the tools to adapt and thrive in a constantly evolving landscape. It fosters resilience, helping you navigate setbacks and uncertainties with grace. This is critical. No matter who we are we will all have to face challenges and change in our lives. Sometimes, this can even mean adapting to a new level of greatness or success – have you heard of the fear of success? Resilience to set-backs and overcoming fears of success or “imposter syndrome” all have one thing in common – cultivating your courage and shifting your mindset from “I can’t” to “I can” and “it’s impossible” to “I’m possible”. You can do it! If you haven’t had a chance, take look at the book I co-authored called THINK Yourself Successful to learn some practical strategies to help you make these mindset shifts today.
4. Stand out and Make a Difference: Taking care of your mental health so that you can show up as your best self for your work – for your clients if you are a fitness professional – and in your personal life is going to help you stand out. As the fitness industry becomes increasingly competitive, offering mental fitness services can set you apart. In a world where mental health awareness is growing, you’ll attract clients seeking a more comprehensive approach to wellness. Being someone with a positive mental attitude helps you stand out in any workplace environment. In all areas of society and personal and professional relationships, a positive attitude – which is built upon practices in place that support mental wellness – will improve your everyday interactions with friends and coworkers. Every single positive interaction will add up and overtime make a significant difference in your life and the lives of others.
5. Personal Growth: Just as you challenge your clients to push their physical limits, embarking on your mental fitness journey can lead to personal growth and a greater sense of fulfillment. This growth will radiate through your business and inspire others. Looking for an opportunity to grow your business or for personal growth? Join me for our canfitpro ASPIRES Growth event on November 3rd. https://www.canfitpro.com/events2023/growth/
Finally, I am thrilled to share with you that I am a featured instructor for the John W. Brick Mental Health Foundation’s 10-10-23 #MoveYourMentalHealth Event! This event is an initiative of JWB to bring you 10 days of movement for just 10 minutes per day! Beginning on October 1st, leading to October 10th, World Mental Health Day! Follow along @johnwbrickfoundation to participate or sign-up here to receive the videos directly in your inbox each day:
Keep a look out for my workout “Slow-Mo Move Yoga Sequence” which will be featured on October 4th as part of this event!
As we dive into the vibrant fall season, I invite you to explore the profound benefits of mental fitness, not only for your personal well-being but also as a game-changer for your business.
Yours in health and fitness,
Mo
