Day 19 – CrossFix

posted by Momo Fali on November 19, 2013

Fair warning: I’ve already taken my Ambien so this may not end well. In fact, it will likely end with a string of bbbbbbbbbbb.

I went to the gym today for the sixth time in eight days. When one of the trainers asked if I was training for a race, I pointed to my head and said, “Yes, a mental one.” It’s taken me a long time to realize it, but I finally have the clarity to know my mind is messed up. Wait.

Physical activity – and I mean HARD Crossfit training, or a good run (but my good runs are really just extended bad runs) are the only things that help me manage stress well.

I realized last week that I could feel my mind and body slipping into a familiar state of anxiety. I am so in tune with the connection between my weakened brain and the quivering needs of my muscles….oh, who am I fooling. I had a particularly stressful afternoon and came home and went right for a baked potato. THAT was how I realized it. Once I find myself turning to carbs for emotional needs, I know it’s time to invest some extra time at the gym.

And, every other day – like today – it worked. Not only did I complete most of my work project that’s due tomorrow, I managed to go to the grocery store and make dinner, vacuum, and fold some laundry. I functioned. AFTER the workout.

Maybe it’s the encouragement I get, maybe it’s seeing my own strength improve a lot over the last few months, maybe I need to know that I can accomplish a set of chin-ups before moving onto a career challenge. Either way, this gym and these trainers are all helping me get to a place where my mind feels right and that’s not an easy task. The muscles I’m gaining are a total bonus.

    Comments

  • Melisa


    Embrace the pain, girlfriend! I’ll bring the Ben Gay wagon in March. Hang tight!

  • Melisa


    Also, bbbbbbbblkjfjdlfkfbbbbbb…

  • meeshie


    My guess (not that you likely care but hey.. you might be curious)..

    Hard exercise releases endorphins and neurotransmitters that are brain ‘feel good’ chemicals. It’s like doing drugs only.. not. 🙂

  • Sarah


    I know of what you speak (and not just the bbbbbb part) – I started yoga to try and relax my brain and it has been amazing! Muscles and balance are just gravy.