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How to Build Momentum for Mental Resilience and Daily Clarity: Mission 1/10

Sep 10

4 min read

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Brain illustration with upward arrow, clock, dumbbells, heart, and woman running on a purple background, suggesting mental fitness.
How do you build your mental fitness momentum?

Mission 1: Physical Resilience Through Exercise


Welcome to the Mental Fitness Battlebox, a 10-part series created by ACSIS Life Coaching to help you build resilience, clarity, and well-being.


Inspired by the military concept of a battlebox (a kit of essentials for the field), this series offers real-life tools you can carry into your everyday routines.


Our first mission is momentum. Not just physical movement, but the internal rhythm that fuels your mindset, stabilises your energy, and helps you keep going through life’s tougher days.


Why Is Momentum So Important for Mental Resilience?


You might think of momentum as something physical, but it’s also deeply mental. Regular movement keeps you emotionally steady, cognitively sharp, and more resilient to stress.


According to the NHS, physical activity can reduce symptoms of depression by up to 30%.


At ACSIS, we see it in action all the time. When you move your body, you also shift your mental state. It’s not about becoming a fitness fanatic; it’s about creating a rhythm that keeps you grounded and clear-headed.


A Personal Mission: Sam and Lauren’s Momentum Stories


For Sam Kinsey-Briggs, movement has always been foundational to mental fitness. As a triathlon coach, she's witnessed how physical activity transforms both body and mind.


"I’ve watched people go from doubting they could complete a single lap of the pool to crossing triathlon finish lines. It’s not just the physical achievement that moves me, it’s the visible shift in their mindset. Confidence grows. Focus sharpens. Mental strength shows up in places they didn’t know existed."
Cyclist, sam, in Royal Navy Triathlon blue gear and helmet number 283 smiles, holding a green water bottle, rides along a path with trees in the background.
Sam enjoying a triathlon as part of Royal Navy Triathlon Team

At home, momentum takes on an even deeper meaning. Sam’s wife, Lauren, is a former professional squash player who also competed at Masters level. Her commitment to movement isn't just about staying in shape, it’s how she stays mentally grounded.


"Lauren has this powerful ability to channel her competitive spirit through movement, whether she’s on the court or in training. She’s shown me that movement isn’t just fitness, it’s clarity, balance, and self-connection. Watching her compete reminds me that momentum isn’t optional. It’s vital, no matter what stage of life you’re in. And yes, I’m an incredibly proud wife - she inspires me every day."

What Happens in Your Brain When You Move?


Movement is one of the most accessible ways to improve mental resilience. Here's how it works:


Emotional Stability

Exercise prompts your brain to release endorphins, natural mood stabilisers that help regulate anxiety and stress.


Sharper Thinking

Cardiovascular movement boosts blood flow to the brain, supporting memory, focus, and decision-making.


Reduced Cortisol

Regular movement reduces stress hormones, making it easier to manage pressure without burning out.


What Are Tactical Ways to Build Mental Resilience Momentum?


You don’t need an intense workout plan. You need a structure that fits your life, your body, and your energy.


1. Morning Missions

Start your day with 5 to 15 minutes of movement: light stretches, yoga, or a quick walk around the block. It sets your rhythm for the day.


2. Structured Checkpoints

Break your day into tasks with small movement breaks in between. It helps with focus and reduces fatigue. Sam uses a stand-up desk and tries 5-10 on the spot squats between calls or meetings to help keep regular movement.


3. Endurance Practices

Cardio activities like swimming, running, team sports or cycling help build both mental and physical stamina. Pick what energises you.


4. Momentum Partnerships

Accountability matters. Move with a partner, coach, your sports team or pet. Momentum is easier to sustain when it's shared. Sam shares her mornings with her dogs, Izzy & Tess to sustain and regulate her momentum.


5. Micro-Tactics

Short bursts of activity (like dancing to one song or walking during a call) can spark a fresh wave of energy. One of our clients said: "I also wanted to let you know that because of you I am eating blueberries every morning, have started listening to music regularly again, doing a little yoga each day, discovered that I love weaving, and invested in some new clothes that feel a little more ‘me’. These may seem like small things, but all of them really bring me a lot of joy and I am very grateful to you for that."


Why This Matters: Momentum on the Resilience Agenda


At ACSIS, we align with the Resilience Agenda. A global movement that frames mental fitness as a skillset, not a fixed trait and a diary that helps keep you motivated. Momentum is one of the first and most foundational tools in that kit.


Building physical resilience through exercise doesn’t just help you feel better today, it supports your future clarity, purpose, and ability to adapt.


Momentum supports:

  • Emotional recovery after setbacks

  • Increased adaptability

  • Mental focus through physical grounding

It’s not about pushing harder. It’s about staying in motion in ways that feel sustainable.


Your Mission Briefing: Build Momentum This Week


🎯 Identify one movement strategy that resonates with your routine

🗓 Commit to practising it daily for one week

🧠 Reflect on how it impacts your mood, energy, and clarity


Momentum is the engine of resilience. It keeps your mind sharp, your body grounded, and your purpose alive.


Stay tuned for Mission 2: Fuel for the Fight: Your Nutrition Strategy, where we’ll look at how food supports your energy, focus, and resilience.


ACSIS Life Coaching: Coaching that meets you where you are. 

Growth that carries you where you want to go.


👉 Book your free discovery session with ACSIS today


👉 www.acsis.co.uk | ✉ contact@acsis.co.uk


Yellow text on black promotes mental fitness through movement, offering tips like micro-tactics, a 1-week challenge, and partner support.
Your Mental Fitness for Momentum Summary Slide

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