Since I wrote my last post, I have been trying to go to the gym on a daily basis! I couldn’t do it without Jen cheering me on and making me go even when she isn’t able to! I even went to the gym while on vacation!! I have noticed a huge improvement in my anxiety and depression over this time! I’m not saying it’s a cure all (I certainly wish it was) but it has certainly helped!
I have gradually gotten stronger! When I finished my hike in April, I was the least healthy I had been in a few years. I had been putting weight on gradually because I was using food as a coping mechanism for my anxiety and depression. Thankfully Jen stepped in and held me accountable. Since then, I have been focusing on not only eating healthier but also trying to get stronger. I finally am getting to the point where I feel good about my body! I know I have a ways to come but I can see the progress that I’m making!
It hasn’t always been easy getting to the gym or getting out in general! Last Friday, I was full of anxiety and decided to head to Greenville the next day to go hiking. I got in a strong 12 miles in 5 ½ hours- my first long hike since my trip. I felt so much better when I got done and that serotonin burst carried me for a couple of days!
Today, was particularly rough and I didn’t think that I would make it to the gym at all. I went along to our flag football practice (our game is this Saturday at 10 AM at Hammond- we are raising money for the Alzheimer’s Association) tonight just to get myself out the house. I was feeling pretty miserable. I showed up and had a blast and that little bit of exercise got the serotonin flowing again. I was able to use this energy to then make it to the gym!
The lesson is to not give up, find something that gets your serotonin flowing and find your support group that will hold you accountable and lift you up when you need it most! And remember that each day is a new chance to make progress.
Hiking Through Anxiety & Depression 