“It is well known that physical activity improves both physiological and psychological well-being” – Professor Valerie Gladwell

Massachusetts is a sports mecca. Boston’s first major league baseball team, now the Atlanta Braves, got their start in 1871, only a few years after the creation of the first all-professional team with the Cincinnati Red Stockings. James Naismith invented basketball in Springfield in 1891. In 1977, WWE legend John Cena was born in West Newbury – that’s right next door to The Healing Rose! 

More than just history and pride, athletics is in our culture, and it’s essential to our health and wellbeing. Based in Newburyport outside of Boston, athletics has been part of the soul of our company since our founding in 2016. CEO Laura Beohner has played and coached girls softball and basketball for most of her life, and it was a basketball injury that inspired The Healing Rose.

Holistic wellness takes into account the health of mind, body, and spirit. Professional athletes understand this balance, and their discipline inspires others. Our hometown hero John Cena’s morning routine includes mindful reflection, journaling, and healthy eating, and balancing exercise, mindfulness, and recovery allows us to get the most out of life. Participating in sports or other challenging athletics activities can spark in us feelings of accomplishment, fulfillment, and community, and while for most of us, pro-sports workouts may be out of reach, there are plenty of ways athletics can be incorporated into daily life. 

Structure your workouts.

Build a workout into your daily routine. If you don’t have an exercise routine already, start small! Exercise should not  be about pushing your body to its limits every time, but about moving in a way that builds strength and flexibility. Remain mindful of how your body feels after your workout, and balance activities that energize you with those that challenge your strength and capabilities. Workout classes like pilates, spinning, or boxing can get you out of your comfort zone, and encourage you to build functional strength.

Get active outdoors.

We mentioned Massachusetts is a sports mecca. It’s hard not to be: the natural beauty of New England is unlike anything else on Earth. Whether you sail in the Atlantic, hike in the White Mountains, or ski in the Greens, there is something for everyone here. Building our natural community into your routine – breathing the fresh air, and challenging yourself in nature, helps you get more out of your exercise. It’s better for your mental health, and keeps us connected to the great outdoors. Outdoor athletics are often more conducive to group activities, and are a great opportunity to build community.

Find new communities.

Community and connection are pillars of holistic wellbeing. Active communities are full of adult leagues for a variety of team sports, and signing up to join your local basketball, soccer, or volleyball team not only gets you active, but holds you accountable. Your team counts on you to perform at your best, and when you win, you win together. Sports are a fun and meaningful way to build new friendships and connect with the wider community. Nobody is too young for pickleball, and even golf gets the steps in if you walk your bag. 

Give back as a coach.

This one is near and dear to our hearts. Part of Laura’s commitment to athletics and holistic wellness is accomplished through coaching. By leading young athletes on the Little League field, coaching a YMCA basketball team, or volunteering at your local school not only gets you active, but makes a big difference in the community and the lives of the next generation. Someone taught you what you know today – how to play the game, how to hold your body for those reps, where to plant your ski pole, or when to reel in the sail – and passing on this knowledge to a new crop of athletes not only keeps you sharp, but is deeply fulfilling.

There are so many ways you can incorporate athletics into your wellness routine and everyday life, but the message of this piece is that you must find what works for you. Holistic wellbeing means taking care of your body, your spirit, and your mind. Check in with your body, build in time for recovery and relaxation, and focus on the experiences that support your physical fitness and make you feel mentally fulfilled. Journal. Drink water. Take breaks. Athletics are key to holistic wellness, and no matter how you choose to incorporate them, The Healing Rose is rooting for you!