In this clip Roko Belik and I discuss how important physical activity is for our emotional and mental well-being.

In our quest for happiness and fulfillment, we often overlook the profound impact that physical activities can have on our overall well-being. Engaging in activities we love, particularly those that are physical and, especially,physically challenging, can lead to remarkable benefits for both our bodies and minds. In this article, we explore the transformative power of physical activity and how it enhances our happiness and well-being.

Physical Activity: A Gateway to Happiness and Clarity

When we embark on any physically challenging activity, we may not realize that the joy we experience is merely a byproduct. Whether it's running, cycling, surfing, or any other activity we love, we find ourselves feeling better, thinking more clearly, and become less reactive. This is a positive spiral or  upward ‘cascade’ effect that accompanies these activities, leading to overall flourishing and thriving in our lives.

Engaging in physical activities allows us to tap into our inner energy and capabilities. It's not just about getting stronger or improving our aerobic capacity; it goes beyond that. Physical exercise seeps into our emotional and cognitive states, bringing about a profound transformation. When we feel physically strong, we also feel less threatened and more confident. This connection between physicality and emotional well-being is a key aspect of happiness research.

Play and Aerobic Challenges: Keys to Long-Term Happiness

We often resist exercise and healthy habits, associating them with tediousness and lack of enjoyment. However, by understanding the concept of play and engaging in activities that are physically and aerobically taxing or challenging, we can unlock long-term happiness.

Think back to the activities you loved as a child, the games that made your heart race with excitement. Whether it was soccer, tennis, playing with your kids, or even surfing like me, these activities brought immense joy. When we approach play in a way that challenges us physically and aerobically, this has a profound impact on our well-being . . .  Studies have shown that individuals who engage in such activities are more likely to experience happiness in the long run.

It is crucial to overcome the resistance that often arises when we hear the words "diet and exercise." By shifting our perspective and recognizing the positive spiral that comes with physical activities, we can embrace them as sources of fulfillment and joy. It's not just about getting in shape; it's about experiencing the full spectrum of holistic wellness benefits that physical activity brings to our lives.

Natural Environments and the Joy of Accomplishment

There is something extraordinary about immersing ourselves in natural environments—whether it's the majestic mountains or the vast ocean—these are key elements which  contribute to our well-being. Natural environments are aligned with our natural physiology, the one that burns fat as our aerobic energy source. These settings allow us to reconnect with our innate capabilities and experience the joy of accomplishment.

When we challenge ourselves physically in natural environments, the rewards are multiplied. The sense of accomplishment we feel when reaching the top of a mountain after a grueling hike or catching the perfect wave while surfing is unparalleled. It is a reminder of our own strength,  resilience and oneness with our environment. These experiences tap into our primal instincts and bring us closer to our authentic self.

There is a disconnect in today's society between the convenience-driven, comfortable lifestyles we have adopted and our innate need for physical challenges and exploration. We have been conditioned to prioritize a comfortable couch, a big TV, and a remote control that keeps us sedentary. However, it is essential to break free from these cultural norms and embrace the transformative power of physical activities in natural environments.

In Summary

We can literally slow the clock on our aging and reverse all sorts of chronic ailments.

When we combine our physical activity with the OFM protocol, our metabolic capacity and health will improve which will allow us to feel better/stronger, do more and reach our potential. This is what we call: “Higher Health & Peak Performance”