Sports as a Therapeutic Tool
Introduction:
Athletes decide to pursue sports for various reasons. Many have the goal of training to reach their maximum potential and eventually become a professional in their respective sport. Although commonly seen as a place of constant work and training, many individuals perceive sports as a hobby. Sports are a place of solace for many people, providing peace and enjoyment simultaneously. Let’s further explore the science and functionality behind sports being a therapeutic tool for the global population.
The Science Behind Sports and Mental Health:
Having a grasp of what our bodies do when we play sports is essential. Multiple studies have displayed that engagement in physical activity releases endorphins, natural mood-enhancing chemicals. These endorphins function by interacting with the brain which alters perception of pain and diminishes the feeling. For example, after a running workout, the feeling present is described as “euphoric” or “runner’s high.” This feeling boosts the outlook on life and forms a positive perception of surroundings.
Sports and Stress Reduction:
Sports and stress have a direct correlation and it has been proven that sports can tremendously reduce stress. This reduction of stress revolves around the existence of a steroid hormone known as cortisol. Each morning, cortisol is produced as a part of our hormone cycles. When we are stressed, our bodies produce cortisol to combat the stress; however, too much cortisol in your body for prolonged periods can lead to inflammation. When we begin exercising, our bodies perceive the physical activity as a form of stress and begin to release cortisol. Cortisol regulation is impacted by the degree and duration of exercise, and it has been proven that moderate exercises have the most beneficial effect on cortisol levels. Regular participation in sports alone has the potential to regulate cortisol levels and reduce stress.
Team Sports and Social Connection:
One of the most important aspects of sports is social connection with teammates. When you join a team, you are creating a family that will go through all the ups and downs throughout a season together. If you are feeling lonely at home, joining a sports team is one of the best options as you can get guaranteed social interactions all while having a great time. You can also hang out with your teammates outside of practices and games by eating meals together, hanging out at someone’s house, etc.
Individual Sports and Personal Empowerment:
Team sports are not the only forms of beneficial sports, and individual sports can be just as empowering and beneficial as well. Goal setting is a common element that individual sports teach athletes. Striving to be the best version of yourself is something that can tremendously eliminate stress and worry, as continuously working to get better will be where your focus lies. Another element individual sports preach is self-reflection. There are times when things will not go your way within your sport, which forces you to reflect on what you could have fixed and improved upon as an individual. This translates to daily life as it encourages reflection of actions, words, and thoughts, which will ultimately make you a better person.
Sports as a Coping Mechanism:
Arguably the most unique thing about sports is that they let you express all of the emotions you are feeling. They are a place where you can roam freely and let loose everything on your mind without any punishment. Emotions are a part of the game, and expressing them out loud will eventually help you regulate and learn to control them. Furthermore, you also have adults you can trust to open up such as coaches, trainers, or any other staff members working with you. Having an adult to express emotions to can go a long way in regulating these emotions and living life to the fullest.
Inclusive Sports for Diverse Mental Health Needs:
One major factor about sports and physical activity is inclusivity and including everyone who wishes to participate. Individuals who possess diverse mental needs have witnessed new programs catered to their needs where they can participate to the fullest extent. Individuals with PTSD, ADHD, and other mental disorders are no longer excluded from sports and can instead use these new programs to connect with others going through the same things as them.
Conclusion:
With an understanding of how sports can be used as a therapeutic tool, individuals across the world can join these diverse groups and programs to find a place of solace and work on their mental health. Winning and losing is one thing, but the bonds that you create with your teammates, coaches, and other staff are the things that will go a long way in your life and stay with you. Don’t hesitate to get involved with a local team/organization and improve your well-being through sports.
Sources:
“The Benefits of Participating in Sports.” Sutter Health, www.sutterhealth.org/health/teens/sports-fitness/benefits-of-sports. Accessed 14 Jan. 2024.
“Exercise and Stress: Get Moving to Manage Stress.” Mayo Clinic, Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, 3 Aug. 2022, www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/stress-management/in-depth/exercise-and-stress/art-20044469#:~:text=Physical%20activity%20may%20help%20bump,contribute%20to%20this%20same%20feeling.
Hackney, Anthony C, and Elizabeth A Walz. “Hormonal Adaptation and the Stress of Exercise Training: The Role of Glucocorticoids.” Trends in Sport Sciences, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 2013, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5988244/.
“Improve Athletic Performance by Measuring Your Cortisol.” Pardigm, www.pardigm.com/articles/improve-athletic-performance-by-measuring-your-cortisol. Accessed 14 Jan. 2024.