Medicinal Golf

[RussUK]

I'm sure we all know the physical benefits of golf for a healthy lifestyle, but how many of us think about the mental benefits.

it's a topic close to me and something I had not really wanted to talk about but something changed recently.

bit of backstory. Aa a kid, I was a devil child, doctors thought it was ADHD and I would grow out of it. I kind of did but still struggled with social situations and when things didn't go to plan. I noticed I would repeat myself when under stress, example when my son was playing at the top of the stairs I would say "away fro the stairs" three times, always three.

In crowded situations I would struggle and get uncomfortable. Visit to a medical professional showed I am on the autistic spectrum. Its mild form but still affects me a lot.

so what does this have to do with golf? Well, for many controlling autism or other mental conditions is about being in control. Golf gives me that control. If I play well its down to me and same if I don't. Its one reason I wont seek formal instruction, sure I may improve faster but I lose the control i need. My swing is improving and it's down to me (plus advice from guys here).

I think golf should be prescribed for mental conditions. It's wonderful at focusing the mind. When I am on the course or range I'm normal and the benefits spill over to the other parts of my life too. I'm calmer when things go wrong and happier to spend time with friends. For me, taking my 4 year old to the range is the best medicine in the world.

sorry for the rambling post but I feel a lot better for it.

Edited September 11, 2017 by RussUK

[Lihu]

EDIT: I'm glad you find solace in golf. . .

 

The thread title was too compelling to pass up. . .

Okay, I need to have my doctor prescribe golf for me. Probably some kind of "mental" doctor, though.

 

 

Edited September 11, 2017 by Lihu

[Buckeyebowman]

Very interesting post! I too have learned the game of golf without a single, formal lesson. I'd get some tips from my Uncle from time to time, but I was pretty much a DIY kind of guy! I also find myself feeling uncomfortable in social situations. It's difficult for me to make "small talk". And it's called small talk for a reason. It's light, unimportant, and functions basically as a "social lubricant" to ease oneself into a group.

Back in the day loved nothing more than playing alone. These days I still enjoy that, but more enjoy an outing with friends. I guess I'm making progress.