While wogging (my creative way of explaining a walk/jog) at the Springfield Nature Center yesterday, I was reminded of how effective exercise is, especially exercising outside, at managing my depression. Being thrown off track in the gym was just the beginning of a series of events that contributed to the reawakening of rebellious Christy. She’s the one who sometimes forgets that when she’s angry and resentful at a situation, that anger and resentment turns to depression and only hurts her in the end. So, here I am roughly 20 pounds heavier than I want to be and seemingly starting from beginning with weightlifting and correcting my nutritional path.

This time, I’m choosing my thoughts more intentionally and pivoting rather than railing on myself about my steps backward. I’ve done it before and I know I can do it again, despite a grumpy knee and the residual effects of having had covid in July. And, if I’m being completely honest, all of those extra pounds sure tasted good! It also felt good sleeping in and starting the days slow, being more available for my family and friends while dealing with loss on many levels which in and of itself is emotionally exhausting. I traded gym time for keeping a clean house, doing laundry and impromptu breakfasts with friends. However, it’s time to refocus and I know it ultimately won’t effect some of those things like laundry and impromptu breakfasts because I’ll have more energy to live my life again. I know I’m not alone in this roller coaster ride with health. I’m sure many of you can relate to the feeling of “well, shit…there’s another pair of shorts that don’t fit quite right anymore” or “ugh, I’m so winded  after only dancing for two songs”!

The point is – I want to feel good again and looking better is just a by-product of feeling good. And, exercise helps manage depression, bottom line. When my depression is manageable (which is especially important because I choose not to take the prescribed meds available), then the rest of my life is more enjoyable and this makes it way easier on others around me, too. Our vibe matters!

It’s some funny irony that immediately after attaining my certification as a Health & Nutrition Life Coach, life kinda throat punched me and I was given an opportunity to truly experience, again, what my clients experience when they are in their low moments, struggling to find the intrinsic motivation to do what they already know they need to do. My previous perspective was, “well, here I go again…NOT being the example someone would look to for coaching” and then beat myself up for a while. Now, I accept the fact that it is because of my lived experiences, good and bad, that I can best relate to my clients. NOBODY is perfect and don’t let someone’s FB or IG account fool you. My preference is to help clients manage their thoughts rather than write fitness programs and meal plans. Do I know how to put that stuff together? Yep, I sure do; however, I’d rather refer those services to people I lean on. Truth is, I’ve come to know something important about myself, too. Just like a classic ‘sub’ in a BDSM relationship, I prefer to be told what to do when it comes to my diet and training regimen. As a multiple business owner, mother and strong woman who loves hard and is a rock for my relationships, it’s just nice to follow directions sometimes and not have to think about it. And, I know there are many others like me in this way.

So, it begins on Monday, September 27. I’m continuing my journey and jumping back on my path of intentional living. My old beaten path was fun for a while, but now I’m ready to feel different kinds of discomfort. Rather being uncomfortable in my head, my joints and my clothes….I’m choosing to be uncomfortable getting out of bed earlier, exerting lots of energy in cardio and weightlifting and shifting thoughts for mental discipline with eating habits. If you would like to jump on this path with me, I’d love for you to be a part of my accountability group. I’m still contemplating whether or not I’ll use a FB group or another simple means of staying in touch, but definitely let me know if you want to be in Christy’s Good Vibe Tribe. LOL! That name may stick, who knows. 🙂