In today’s society we are exposed to more stress than ever, spending most of our time working, to earn more money, so we can work less (kind of ironic). In fact, it seems with the advance of technology we can find that the boundaries between our work life and free time become blurred. Many of us unwittingly let work seep into our free time, with texts, emails and social media leaving us with virtually no time at all to relax and switch off.
So with that in mind, it’s time to start de-stressing and reclaim your free time. What’s the best way to do this? Ok – start by switching off your work phone, or if this isn’t possible, promise yourself a break from work calls and messages. If you can, try not to read work related emails in your free time, and whilst you’re at it how about imposing a ban on social media for a couple of hours! Now you are ready for the next step – EXERCISE!
Physical activity releases endorphins inside your body (the feel good chemicals) while simultaneously reducing stress hormones like cortisol. This has got to be a good thing! A hard workout can also release other chemicals in your body such as serotonin, adrenalin and dopamine – all of these contribute to feeling good.
For me, there is nothing better for stress relief than a great punch bag workout. Not only do I get the physiological results from the chemicals and hormones as stated above, but I get much more than that. It gives me head space to think or not think – my choice! For me it feels almost like I am meeting my problems and stresses head on and punching my way out. It gives me freedom. Freedom to escape from my life, freedom to think, to concentrate, to be. I get to choose what my next step is. I get to clear my mind.
But don’t take my word for it, get your gloves on and start punching – we have a few punch bag combination videos on our YouTube Channel you can follow to get you started.
This one is my favourite at the moment – enjoy and de-stress.
Happy training!
Cornelius Carr
former BBBofC British Super-Middleweight & WBF World Middleweight Champion