It is astonishing how much time men dedicate to improving their rankings on the imagined ladder of manliness. Yet, they often fight an uphill battle, unaware that they can start if from a better place, where the winds are in their favor. The bodily vessel is not just some armor that shields us from external forces: It is also a personal sanctuary of mental health, one which is interwoven with the outside world of stimuli. So, it is high time to acknowledge this, take action, and facilitate a positive change in life.
A two-way street
Everyone knows that it is possible to pack more muscle mass, but we can do more than that, and change our bodily and brain chemistry. Large body postures, for instance, are particularly effective in driving this alteration. When you extend your arms and keep legs open, testosterone production is increased, while stress hormones dwindle. Research has shown that maintaining a “large body” pose for two minutes boosts the chances of bringing the house down in a job interview or some other challenge.
Furthermore, we all know that a smile is a constant companion to happiness. But, why is it so? Well, when we contract the muscles recruited in the process of smiling, the sense of anguish and anger wanes. So, yes, even a fake smile does the trick, because the body-brain connection is utilized. Neurons do not fire duds, and they wire together accordingly. You could say that they are dumb, but we can take advantage of this situation to nurture different outcomes.
What we do and say does not only create ripples around us, it also modifies the way our brain works. This phenomenon is called embodied cognition. Many disciplines harness this amazing power. Meditation and visualization, for instance, affect blood pressure, hormone levels, and the immune system. And if we reverse things a bit, and start with changes in the physical realm, we discover that manipulating it brings forth improvements in terms of concentration, self-esteem, and creativity.
Taking a stand
Thus, taking care of your health acts as a powerful catalyst for change, which spills over into many other segments of daily life. It is a stepping stone for transcending the physical and embarking on a journey of self-improvement. It all starts with a sense of responsibility, a realization that you are capable and in control. This notion has a decisive impact on how others see you. Namely, there is a wide array of ways we communicate with others non-verbally.
Our posture, facial expressions, and demeanor have a huge role to play on the big stage that is life. So, try to keep your posture erect and open. Do not shy away from smiling, nodding, and laughing. Surround yourself with things that have meaning, value, and positive mental associations for you. Balance is everything in life, so find rituals and activities that help you melt the stress away. I did not hesitate to try out Shango premium cannabis products, and tend to use alcohol in moderation.
Always educate yourself and make informed decisions. Do not just imitate and follow others, as you have to pave your own road to happiness. Also, I would not miss any chance to get dressed to kill. Studies have confirmed that the colors we chose to wear have an effect on our mood. Finally, strive to move around often, and engage in regular physical activity: change yourself before you go on to change the world around you.
Your way or the highway
Regardless of your luck in the genetic lottery, it is within your power to shape and sculpt your body. Start with the physique, change the way you carry yourself, and witness the amazing transformation yourself. Wear, do, listen, and watch things you adore and that activate positive memories and emotions. The body-mind connection goes both ways and allows us to jump-start the self-improvement process. Play the game of wiggles, movement, fidgets, and gestures on your own terms. Face every new day with a smile on your face and take on any challenge that dares come your way.
Author: Mathews McGarry
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athews McGarry is passionate about many forms of strength training, and has spent years lifting, dragging and flipping all manner of heavy objects. After graduating from the Faculty of Health Sciences, he started writing about his experiences, and sharing tips for a better life. He is an all-around fitness adviser and his words are strong as an Australian Bull.