What is Energy? Vitality is Energy
Have you ever felt that surge of energy that makes you feel invincible? I know I have. It's that feeling that propels us forward, helps us conquer challenges, and makes life more enjoyable. Today, I want to explore a fundamental concept: Vitality is Energy.
Learning Objectives
By the end of this blog, you should have a richer understanding of:
The intricate connection between vitality and energy.
How vitality impacts various aspects of our lives.
Scientific evidence supporting the vitality-energy link.
Vitality and Energy: A Profound Connection
Vitality isn't some abstract concept; it's the very essence of our existence. Think about it – when you wake up in the morning, what gets you out of bed? It's energy! This energy is what fuels our vitality.
Research by psychologists Ryan and Deci (2000) has shown that vitality is closely linked to intrinsic motivation, which is fuelled by our energy levels. Subjective vitality is thought of as the state of feeling alive and having energy available to yourself (Ryan & Deci, 2017). When we have abundant energy, we're more likely to be engaged in our activities, be it at work or in our personal lives.
The Impact on Mental Health
Now, let's delve into the profound impact vitality has on mental health. Numerous studies, including a meta-analysis by Schimmack et al. (2002) have demonstrated a strong connection between vitality and psychological well-being. People with higher vitality levels tend to experience lower levels of stress, anxiety, and depression.
When you have ample energy, you're better equipped to handle life's challenges. It's like having a shield against the negativity that can affect our mental health.
Finding Meaningful Work
One of my core missions is to help people find meaningful work. Vitality plays a pivotal role in this quest. Think about it – when you're brimming with energy, you're more likely to explore new career opportunities, take risks, and seek out work that truly resonates with your values and passions.
Physical Vitality and Exercise
Being a personal trainer with decades of experience, I've witnessed first hand how physical vitality is directly tied to energy levels. Regular exercise not only boosts physical vitality but also enhances mental clarity and emotional well-being. Research published in the journal ‘Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics’ by Puetz et al. (2008) highlights the immediate and long-term benefits of exercise on vitality and energy levels. There is evidence found in Rodrigues et al. (2023) that exercise physical activity is associated with a greater experience of subjective vitality In addition, literature has highlighted the effects of the practice of regular physical exercise on subjective vitality, in different age groups such as positive activations and satisfaction with life. Additionally, long-term endurance training had a clear positive effect on vitality in older adults with a median age of 74 years old (Solberg et al., 2012).
Final Thoughts…
In conclusion, vitality is indeed energy. It's the force that drives us, motivates us, and allows us to live life to the fullest. Our exploration today has shed light on the interconnectedness of vitality, mental health, meaningful work, and physical well-being.
Reference List
Puetz, T.W., Flowers, S.S., O'Connor P.J., (2008). A randomized controlled trial of the effect of aerobic exercise training on feelings of energy and fatigue in sedentary young adults with persistent fatigue. Psychother Psychosom. 77(3)
Rodrigues, F., Jacinto, M., Antunes, R., Monteiro, D., Faria, J., & Teixeira, D. (2023). Physical exercise and vitality: multigroup analysis according to sex and practice experience. Cuadernos de Psicología del Deporte. 23(3).
Ryan, R. M., & Deci, E. L. (2000). Self-determination theory and the facilitation of intrinsic motivation, social development, and well-being. American Psychologist, 55(1).
Ryan, R. M., & Deci, E. L. (2017). Self-determination theory: Basic psychological needs in motivation, development, and wellness. The Guilford Press.
Schimmack, U., Radhakrishnan, P., Oishi, S., Dzokoto, V., & Ahadi, S. (2002). Culture, personality, and subjective well-being: Integrating process models of life satisfaction. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 82(4).
Solberg, P.A., Hopkins, W.G., Ommundsen, Y., Halvari, H. (2012). Effects of three training types on vitality among older adults: A self-determination theory perspective. Psychology of Sport and Exercise. 13.