Gail Porter: 'Exercise keeps me occupied, which is good for my mental health.'

Exercise keeps me occupied, which is good for my mental health.

The quote by Gail Porter, "Exercise keeps me occupied, which is good for my mental health," carries a straightforward but powerful message about the positive impact of physical activity on one's mental well-being. With a focus on personal experience, Gail highlights the significance of staying occupied through exercise as a means to maintain good mental health. However, let's take a moment to introduce an unexpected philosophical concept that can bring a new layer of interest to our exploration of this topic - the concept of enso.At first glance, Gail's quote seems to emphasize the idea that engaging in exercise provides a distraction from negative thoughts or stressors, allowing one to concentrate their mind on a productive and physical activity. This holds true for many individuals who may find solace and relief from mental anguish through the action of exercising. It is widely recognized that physical activity releases endorphins, which can lead to improved mood and reduced feelings of anxiety or depression. Thus, exercise indeed occupies the mind, providing a much-needed respite from the challenges of daily life.However, when we introduce the concept of enso, a Zen Buddhist painting practice, an intriguing juxtaposition emerges. Enso is a single brushstroke in the shape of a circle, often painted in one fluid motion. This paradoxical symbol aims to depict the infinite and the finite, the emptiness and the fullness, the simplicity and the complexity of life. In many ways, exercise can be seen as an embodiment of the enso. While it keeps the mind occupied on a specific activity, it also brings forth a sense of mindfulness and contemplation.Exercise provides a unique opportunity to be fully present in the moment, focusing on the immediate sensations and movements of the body. In this sense, it becomes a form of moving meditation, fostering a connection between the mind and body. As we engage in physical activities such as running, practicing yoga, or dancing, we become aware of our breath, the flow of energy, and the rhythmic patterns of our bodies. It is through this heightened awareness that we may find a renewed sense of clarity and peace.Furthermore, drawing parallels between enso and exercise, we uncover another contemplative aspect - the idea that exercise can be a vehicle for self-expression. Just as enso represents the personal journey of the painter in a single brushstroke, exercise allows individuals to explore and express themselves physically. Whether it's the graceful movements of a ballet dancer, the powerful strides of a sprinter, or the deliberate poses of a yogi, exercise becomes a manifestation of individuality, freedom, and creativity.In essence, the quote by Gail Porter conveys a direct and practical understanding of the benefits of exercise for mental health. However, when viewed through the lens of the enso, we recognize the deeper significance of exercise. It becomes not only a means of distraction or occupying the mind but a practice that encourages mindfulness, self-expression, and connection.By embracing exercise as a form of moving meditation or a way to unleash our inner creativity, the benefits on our mental health extend beyond mere occupation. We begin to integrate body and mind, finding balance, resilience, and a deeper understanding of ourselves. So, the next time you engage in physical activity, remember to appreciate its transformative potential and allow it to be your enso - a symbol of both movement and stillness, simplicity and complexity, and the interconnectedness of our physical and mental well-being.