Lately I’ve been going to the gym 6 days a week for an hour at a time. It’s more than I usually go, and during this time I’ve been asked what my fitness goals are. Another regular question I’ve been asked and I often ask others is “What are you training today?” Back? Leg day? Shoulders? etc.
I’ve thought about this a lot lately, and what I reply in my mind is this:
I’m here for my mind, for my heart, for my soul.
It’s here where I push my body to my limits, that I realize the strength of my spirit.
This hour gives me time to refuel and wipe out any negativity that clouds my mind.
I’m inspired by those around me struggling through physical adversity. Like the gentlemen who is recovering from a stroke. He never misses a day and walks the track with determination and such strength.
I’m uplifted by the positivity that lives within those walls, like the couple who walk the track holding hands the entire way while talking and laughing.
I go to uplift others with positivity. A kind word, a smile, a sincere compliment. Even through my darkest days, I will smile and uplift those around me. I’ve learned it fuels my heart just as much as it fuels others. Positive energy is infectious.
I go for I know that within minutes into my workout, any anxious energy melds way into determination. The power of exercise!
There’s no other hour in my day where I feel as positive, uplifted, confident and self-assured. I leave my workouts with those feelings, and it seeps its way into other minutes of my day. Growing and evolving just as I do.
So yes, today maybe shoulder-day by physical definition, but what I’m really doing is taking gentle care of myself…body, mind, and most importantly soul & spirit. So that I am the best Mom I can be for my kids, a better friend to my friends, and to learn just how strong I am within.
Take away the aesthetics of the gym, and you are left with the heart of training…the real reason so many require that hour like air in their lungs. I am so thankful I learned this lesson. It’s been a gift during the hardest of days and a blessing on my shiny days too.
From my heart to yours,
Christine
Reclaiming LIFE 