Mindfulness and Physical Activity

doi:10.1177/1559827614564546

Paper

Mindfulness and Physical Activity

Published Jan 6, 2015 · Ann Blair Kennedy, P. Resnick

American Journal of Lifestyle Medicine

Q2 SJR score

33

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0

Influential Citations

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Abstract

Mindfulness and mindful activity can have a profound effect on physical and mental health. When considering mindfulness and physical activity, it is important to differentiate between physical activities, which are geared toward mindfulness and have mindful components, for example, yoga, platies, and tai chi, from other mindfulness interventions that are then geared toward greater awareness and mindfulness, which may then lead to healthful behavior change such as increasing physical activity. Prescribing mindfulness interventions may be another resource to help physicians when interacting with their patients, considering motivating patients to exercise and become more physically active can be challenging. Engaging in mindfulness can elicit change over time. Integrating mindfulness to interventions with exercise is one way to initiate exercise adherence as well as improve self-efficacy. When practicing mindful-based exercise programs, the benefits can also be seen with improved breathing rate and depth, heart rate, and parasympathetic activity. Promoting mindfulness-based training for physical activity has positive effects both psychologically and physiologically.

Study Snapshot

Mindfulness-based training for physical activity improves exercise adherence, self-efficacy, and enhances physical and mental health benefits.

PopulationOlder adults (50-71 years)

Sample size24

MethodsObservational

OutcomesBody Mass Index projections

ResultsSocial networks mitigate obesity in older groups.

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Mindfulness and Physical Activity

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Citations

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People with Parkinson's disease value an intrinsic connection to exercise, and tailoring exercise plans to their preferences and needs is crucial for long-term adherence and self-management.

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