Page 82 - FITNESS STYLE 1 IN MARCH 2024

BY ALICE NGUYEN
PHOTOS: MARINA SFEIR &
MAZ VALCORZA

hen we think about fitness This often involves slowing down,
and bodybuilding, we paying attention, being fully present
Woften think about strong and engaged in the task at hand
sculpted bodies. We think about the without judgement.
extreme hard work and discipline Meditation is a specific
to achieve such physiques. Some intentional practice of “non-doing”,
may even perceive it as “vanity,” a where we also become an observer
representation from the outside in. of our inner world. There are
However, like many other sports, many styles of meditation which
there is a powerful strength an may use imagery or a repetitive
athlete can possess that is often mantra (word or sound) to help
overlooked. This strength can only aid concentration in the practice.
occur by a practice that begins Vedic meditation teacher, Daniel
from the inside out. And that is Snow, says that his practice
meditation and mindfulness, an allows students to “integrate their
important practice that prepares experiences, release stress from the
the mind for mental and physical body and align them with their true
toughness. A practice which allows nature”.
athletes to let go of the anxiety Arnold Schwarzenegger also
that may come from heavy training immersed himself in a year-
loads, competitions and stressors long practice of Transcendental
of daily living. At the same time, it Meditation, sitting 20 minutes in
can help significantly with recovery, the morning and 20 minutes at
focus and even contribute to muscle night every day. “Within 14 days
growth. In fact, it is so important or three weeks, I got to the point
that if you are not integrating where I could really disconnect my
this practice into your own fitness mind, learn how to focus more and
journey, you could be losing out on calm down”. In “Generation Iron”,
some great progress. bodybuilder Hidetada Yamagishi
was seen meditating after his
What is mindfulness? workout.
Mindfulness often gets confused Here are a few benefits of
with meditation, though it is an including a regular meditation and
aspect of meditation. Mindfulness mindfulness practice in your fitness
is an informal practice that allows program!
us to engage in everyday activities
with intention and awareness, 1. Hormonal benefits
such as mindful eating, mindful More research is showing that
conversation, and mindful training. regular meditation can change

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