Embracing Stoicism in Bodybuilding: Strengthening Both Mind and Body

MarcusAurelius

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VET
Aug 15, 2018
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Hey everyone,

I wanted to share something that’s been on my mind lately, especially as we push our limits both in the gym and in life. I've been diving into Stoic philosophy again and came across a quote that really resonated with me:

"You have power over your mind - not outside events. Realize this, and you will find strength." - Marcus Aurelius

In our world of bodybuilding, we constantly strive for physical perfection and strength. But how often do we focus on the strength of our mind? This quote reminds me that true power and resilience come from within. Here’s why I think incorporating Stoic principles can be a game-changer for all of us:

  1. Mental Fortitude: Just as we train our bodies, we need to train our minds. Stoicism teaches us to remain calm and composed, no matter what challenges we face. Whether it's hitting a plateau, dealing with injuries, or balancing our hectic lives, keeping a stoic mindset helps us stay focused and grounded.
  2. Control What You Can: We can't control everything around us, but we can control how we react. Instead of getting frustrated by things we can't change, let's channel that energy into what we can improve - our training, our diet, our discipline.
  3. Resilience: Life is full of ups and downs. Stoicism teaches us to accept both success and failure with grace. When we encounter setbacks, instead of feeling defeated, we can see them as opportunities to grow stronger.
  4. Discipline and Patience: In bodybuilding, progress is often slow and requires consistent effort. Stoicism reminds us that patience and perseverance are key. It’s not about instant gratification but about long-term dedication.
  5. Purpose and Focus: By reflecting on our values and goals, we can stay motivated and focused. Stoicism encourages us to find our purpose and align our actions with it, making every workout more meaningful.
I’d love to hear your thoughts on this. Have any of you incorporated Stoic principles into your fitness journey? How has it impacted your training and overall mindset? Let's discuss and help each other build not just stronger bodies, but stronger minds as well.

Stay strong,
MarcusAurelius
 
No man has the right to be an amateur in the matter of physical training. It is a shame for a man to grow old without seeing the beauty and strength of which his body is capable.” ― Socrates
 
“Because your own strength is unequal to a task, do not assume it is beyond the powers of man.”