Harnessing the Power of Body Doubling for Motivation
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Chapter 1: The Role of Body Doubling
The young people at the gym may not realize the impact they have on me, and that’s perfectly alright. Their presence is all I need as they gather in the dimly lit weight room of the Rec Center to pursue their fitness goals.
Body doubling, a technique I utilize, serves as a great motivational tool, helping me remain focused on my objectives while also providing companionship. This concept involves working alongside someone engaged in their own task, creating a supportive atmosphere that can inspire productivity.
My previous love for running made it easy to stay active. Running offers numerous benefits: it’s typically done outdoors, often on scenic trails, and requires minimal setup—simply open your door, and you’re already exercising. It’s social, uplifting, good for the heart, and cost-effective. In essence, it’s a joyful and straightforward activity.
However, after a running injury, I found that exercising didn't come as naturally. I empathize with the widespread struggle to stay active. As Joni Mitchell famously reflected, I now see things from both perspectives.
Chemical Influences on Mental Health
Recently, I faced a sudden bout of anxiety and depression that caught me off guard, although I had sensed some symptoms brewing. My lack of exercise, following two rounds of a common illness, contributed to this decline in mental health. Without regular activity, I missed out on the beneficial brain chemistry that exercise fosters.
I shared with my husband what a specialist had informed me about my recent ADHD diagnosis. She noted that adolescents who participated in sports during high school often experience a reduction in ADHD symptoms due to the neurochemical benefits of physical activity.
It’s well known that exercise can elevate mood, but her insights highlighted an intriguing aspect: the transition to post-high school life can be more challenging for individuals with ADHD. Not only does the external structure diminish, but they also lose out on the advantageous brain chemistry that comes with regular exercise. Many do not carry this consistent activity into their college or professional lives.
As I conveyed this to my husband amidst my mental struggles, it became clear how crucial it was for me to incorporate exercise back into my routine.
My Unexpected Allies
The solitary Stairmaster at my rec center is located in the weight room on the lower level, facing a window that overlooks a small lobby. Unless children are playing nearby, my view is limited to walls. This is where the teenage weightlifters come into play.
They’re positioned behind me, and I can catch glimpses of their reflections in the glass. Their presence—lifting weights and staying committed to their fitness routines—serves as my motivation.
Though they might see my 58-year-old self using the Stairmaster, I doubt they pay me much attention. I’m just another presence in their space, setting up my notepad and pen for jotting down thoughts, while enjoying some music from Gwen Stefani and Imagine Dragons during my workout.
Perhaps I’m merely a passing curiosity or distraction. More likely, I’m just part of the environment. They focus on their goals, and I focus on mine.
I appreciate our shared commitment to fitness, even if they don’t recognize it. They may be trying to improve their athletic performance, while I’m aiming to enhance my mood and cognitive function. I feel a special connection to them, as they remind me of my own children when they were younger.
Whether they consciously acknowledge our unspoken bond or not, I’m certain we’re part of the same team. Maybe my efforts on the Stairmaster encourage them to maintain their dedication as well.
Regardless, I’ll cheer for our team!
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