There is something therapeutic, satisfying, and extremely nourishing about being involved in sports. Whether it’s soccer, running, or other track and field events, football, basketball, wrestling, tennis, golf, baseball, hiking, gymnastics, swimming, or whatever else you learn to enjoy, the simple act of participating in sports can be a life-enhancing decision. Further, it may be something you’ll enjoy for the rest of your life.
Being involved in sports, at any level of participation—whether you’re an absolute beginner, an average player, or actual champion—affects you on many levels: physical, mental, and emotional.
First, and most important, it’s a physical outlet where you can do something just for the fun of it. You can let off steam, horse around, make noise (depending on the sport), and pal around with and meet new friends. It allows you to have something in common with other people. Sports give you a chance to take your mind off the rest of your life (including your problems), clear your mind, and enjoy the moment. They give you something really healthy to be enthused and passionate about, something to cheer for.
Second, sports give you a chance to improve your coordination and strength as well as your physical and mental skills. You can learn to compete, cooperate, practice good sportsmanship and teamwork, and see how well you can do. If you ask around, you’ll probably find that almost everyone who is involved in sports—at any level—is really glad they are.
Further, when you are involved in sports, you always have something to do. As a teen, I loved to play tennis. I don’t think I was ever bored because I could always use a little practice hitting the ball against the wall.
Finally, participating in sports—whether you win or lose—will help you stop sweating the small stuff so much. By learning to take out some of your frustrations on the field or on the court (or wherever else you play), you also can learn to be less frustrated in the rest of your life. When you expend physical energy, you release what are called endorphins in your body, which help you feel more relaxed and peaceful.
So whether it’s through school, the community, or even if you have to set it up yourself, why not give sports a try? And remember, it truly doesn’t matter how good you are. As long as you are participating, you are a winner!