Physical fitness has always garnered lot of attention and more so, during the recent times of the pandemic. Not only does it keep illnesses like heart diseases and diabetes at bay but it also instills a sense of well being and happiness by increasing levels of serotonin, dopamine, and nor epinephrine in the brain. But, what about mental strength?

In the pursuit towards physical fitness, the mental health had taken a back seat for long. After all, this is the factor that gives us the strength to handle the challenges and stress life throws at us.

The importance of a fit mind

Unlike the common perception that a person is mentally healthy if they are not suffering from any mental disorders, according to a well-known clinical psychologist, anyone can be under extreme stress, discomfort or anxiety for extended periods of their lives without having a mental illness as such.

Our mental strength is put to test by certain trying or stressful times in life when we are winded by a major life event. Being able to recover quickly requires significant psychological resilience. The benefits of being mentally fit means we are able to use our mental abilities to our fullest extent, allowing us to be more creative, make the most of opportunities as they present themselves, and approach stressful situations more calmly and with less anxiety.

Well, the good news is - Keeping physically fit and playing certain sports like golf improves and normalizes neurotransmitter levels, which ultimately helps us feel mentally healthy.

Why golf is good for body and mind

Golf is proven to offer many health benefits that are physically challenging and mentally stimulating. Golf is considered as a unique sport that requires walking for several hours constantly and also using your brain to stay alert all the time. In fact, it is defined as a lifetime sport that can be played at all / any ages.

As with any other physical exercises, it keeps your heart health great. Walking with your bag along your back and swinging increases the blood flow to your heart and also reduces chances of diabetes. Your brain circuits are active all the time which helps you stay focused. It also aids weight loss as the golden number of steps per day (10,000) is easily achieved.

Stress management is a glaring issue faced by people across all walks of life. Did you know that by playing a good game of golf which involves socializing, walking in fresh air and taking up mental challenges, your brain releases endorphins that are the natural mood enhancing chemicals? Besides, it has been proven to cause improved sleep patterns.

“The health benefits of golf are far greater than most of us seem to believe and may have a much greater and broader impact on our well being than we may have realized. Considering how well a good golf facility can appeal to people of all age groups, golf is a wonderful way to encourage exercise,” says Edwin Roald, EIGCA Council member.

So next time you think of taking up a sport, THINK GOLF!