Summer is just around the corner, which means everyone is in a hurry to hit their physical fitness goals. But your overall well-being means investing in your emotional well-being as well. May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and it’s the perfect time to dedicate to your emotional well-being.
And the good news? Your physical health and mental health affect each other more than you might think. While there are many ways to improve mental health, one often overlooked method is through fitness. In particular, Lagree has been shown to have a positive impact on mental health.
Let's explore the connection between fitness and mental health and how incorporating Lagree into your routine can benefit your emotional health.
Setting the Stage: Let's Talk Mental Health This May
While May might surround us with sunshine, rainbows, and blooming flowers, it's also a time to turn our focus within ourselves.
With the month of May being deemed Mental Health Month, there is no better time than to evaluate our own. The chaos of life often takes a toll on our minds. Lagree offers a sanctuary—a place to recalibrate, breathe, and find solace.
And if you've never dealt with any mental health challenges, consider yourself a lucky one. But it's still important to acknowledge the invisible struggles people around you are facing on a daily basis.
Having knowledge and awareness surrounding the topic of mental health will help you develop a sense of understanding and empathy.
Let’s uncover how those Megaformers and resistance springs have the power to become our emotional refuge.
Lagree Love: Where Fitness Meets Mindfulness
Lagree goes beyond just physical exercise. The method isn't only about working out, but about creating a mindful and holistic approach to fitness. By combining the physical intensity of Lagree with mindfulness practices, you can enhance your overall well-being. You can use Lagree as a means to practice self-care as it promotes a deeper connection between the body and mind.
Unpacking Lagree Fitness: More Than Just a Workout
Lagree isn’t your typical gym routine. It’s like the ninja of workouts—the stealthy warrior that targets muscles you didn’t know existed. Yes, it's the ultimate workout—providing you with an extremely effective and efficient approach to fitness. But it's a lot more than that. It's a lifestyle that benefits you far beyond the physical realm.
We’ll unmask its secrets and discover why it’s a game-changer for both body and mind.
Lagree’s intensity leaves you drenched in sweat as it works to sculpt your physique. While it might be painful in the moment when your muscles experience that Lagree shake, it also somehow paints a smile on your face. It really is a magical method.
Syncing Body and Soul: Lagree's Mind-Body Dance
The Lagree method is where neuroscience meets the Megaformer. The mind-body connection is a fascinating interplay between physical movement and mental awareness. Let’s dive deeper into why Lagree stands out in nurturing this connection.
The workout is done on a Megaformer, a unique machine used in Lagree studios like Pilates Plus LA. This machine becomes the foundation for your mind-body exploration, offering an unparalleled workout experience.
The term “mind-body connection” refers to the direct link between your brain and muscles through the nervous system. It’s the bridge connecting your physical and mental health, influencing your overall well-being and performance. Why Is It Important?
Activating the mind-body connection enhances your workout effectiveness. When you focus on this connection, you elevate your awareness, leading to maximum benefits from your exercises and higher prevention of injury.
Lagree workouts utilize a time-under-tension technique—slow, controlled movements that engage multiple muscles at once. But this slow tempo also allows you to deepen your body awareness.
Lagree transcends mere physical exertion as it's also a practice of inner strength. Mindfulness is naturally woven into every move on the Megaformer. As you synchronize breath, form, and intention, you tap into a holistic experience.
When you sweat, not only are you torching calories, but you're also sweating stress away. In this way, the multitude of Lagree moves serve as stress-busters. Sure, the dynamic movements are an excellent way to tone your muscles, but what's even more impressive is how they support you in releasing tension. You'll come off the Megaformer feeling lighter—in every aspect of the phrase.
Grin and Bear It: Lagree’s Happy Chemical Cocktail
Lagree serves up a cocktail of happiness with dopamine, serotonin, and endorphins. Let's take a look at these three key ingredients:
- Dopamine: When you exercise, your brain releases dopamine, which is a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure, reward, and motivation. Dopamine contributes to feelings of joy and satisfaction, making it a natural mood booster.
- Serotonin: Exercise also affects serotonin which is another crucial neurotransmitter. Serotonin plays a role in regulating mood, sleep, and appetite. Lagree workouts help promote healthy blood flow to the brain, which increases serotonin production.
- Endorphins: Exercise also triggers the release of endorphins. These “feel-good” chemicals contribute to the sense of well-being during and after a workout.
Engaging in regular workouts like Lagree not only sculpts our bodies but also nourishes our minds. So, grab those grippy socks, hit the studio, and sip on that happy chemical cocktail.
Jumping In: Making Lagree Your Mental Health Sidekick
The relationship between Lagree and mental health is significant. If you're a newbie to Lagree, the Megaformer, unique dynamic movements, and the intensity of the method might seem a bit intimidating. Here are a few tips to help ease your nerves as you enter the world of Lagree:
- Familiarize yourself with the Megaformer: Arrive to class extra early so that your certified Lagree instructor can explain how the machine works. Don't worry—it's really not complicated.
- Pick a machine in the middle: Opting to place yourself in the center of the room will help you view others to follow their form and also makes it easier for the instructor to pay closer attention to you.
- Embrace the shake: The infamous Lagree shake is a sign that you're doing it right and your muscles are at work.
- Listen to your body: Don't compare yourself to those around you. Give yourself some grace as you begin a new, challenging workout method. Always listen to any cues your body is giving you.
- Take breaks as needed: Since Lagree doesn't build in breaks during class, it's up to you to take a moment or two to catch your breath and then resume the movement as soon as you can. And don't forget to hydrate during class!
Soon, you'll be calling your go-to Lagree studio your zen zone. Unlike an overpacked, noisy gym, the studio will be a safe oasis. Where you can escape the chaos and stress of the outside world and take some time to focus on cultivating your mind-body connection. Lagree is an amazing workout that improves your mental health.
Insider Intel: Expert Hacks for a Happier You
Sebastien Lagree, the mastermind behind the Lagree method, has years of experience in the world of fitness. He emphasizes the focus on the mind-body connection. Slow down, be present, and engage both your muscles and your mind during class. Let this be the time dedicated to doing just that. Leave the hurried busyness of life outside the studio.
The Lagree community is another powerful source. Connect with your fellow classmates—whether you find an accountability partner or make a new bff, bonding with others is another hack to improve your mental health.
Lagree focuses on consistency over intensity. Consistent exercise is more beneficial than occasional full-blown intense workouts that can also lead to injuries. Yes, the workout is high-intensity by nature, but focusing on the slow, controlled tempo will help you avoid going too hard.
Doubling Down: Pairing Lagree with Mental Health Power Moves
While Lagree is a transformative and powerful tool for enhancing your physical and mental health, it's not a solo act. Combine it with other self-care practices for a holistic approach to mental health. Meditation, journaling, or spending time in nature are all great options to reduce stress.
Don't neglect a nutritious diet and adequate sleep. All of these things, combined with Lagree will set you up for success when it comes to improving your mental health.
Conclusion
Lagree isn’t just about lunges and planks and sculpting a fabulous body. A focus on the mind-body connection builds resilience and empowerment. So step onto that Megaformer, breathe, and let Lagree be your emotional compass.
Remember that fitness and mental health share a connection because your body and mind are interconnected. In honor of May Mental Health Awareness, step onto that Megaformer and let Lagree be your emotional compass. Sign up for your first class!
