Walk into any fitness center in Phoenix, AZ, and you’ll likely see many people sporting some type of wearable technology. Fitness trackers are very popular to help people gauge their level of exertion to make sure they’re getting the most out of their workouts. However, wearable technology is also helping people improve their mental health too.
Did you know that according to the World Health Organization, over 260 million people worldwide suffer from some form of anxiety? This statistic has tech companies thinking about how to tackle this growing epidemic of stress that’s affecting people’s mental health.
Smartwatches
Do you own a smartwatch? What do you use it for? While many people use their smartwatches to get text messages and stay connected, they can also be used to monitor heart rate. This is important not only for physical health, but also for mental health. When people experience anxiety attacks, it often starts with the quickening of their heart rate. However, when you’re in the middle of a stressful situation, you may not realize that your anxiety levels are rising as quickly as they are. Smartwatches track the wearer’s heart rate and alert you when your heart rate is elevated, similar to the fitness trackers worn by gym goers. The goal of this alert is to help you become more aware of your heart rate rising so that you can take steps to slow it down by calming your body and mind.
Apps
Smartwatches and Fitbit trackers have become fine-tuned in recent years. With the ability to download apps onto your phone that connect to the wearable device, people are able to monitor their mental health better. Apps that ask you to check in daily and mark your mood are great for helping people focus on how they’re really feeling. Of course, it’s not always easy to remember to make time for mental health check-ins. That’s where apps and wearables come together to bridge the gap. A gentle buzz or vibration around your wrist at a predetermined time throughout each day reminds you to check in with how you’re feeling. Or maybe you have an app that reminds you to breathe and express gratitude. Wearable technology, when combined with smart device technology, can change the mindsets of millions of people worldwide and inspire calm and happiness.
Smart devices and wearables are 2 examples of gadgets with the capability to improve physical and mental health. However, regular exercise also contributes to a healthy mindset. That’s why fitness centers in Phoenix, AZ, like Mountainside Fitness, let their members rent digital fitness trackers to monitor their health and wellness while working out.
If you’d like to learn more about wearables and how they enhance your physical and mental health, stop into a Mountainside Fitness near you today.
