Happy New Year!

​Happy New Year!

The beginning of a new year always carries with it such a range of emotions. Melancholy for all that was lost, remembered and revered along with excitement for the new and unknown can evoke sadness and joy- those polar opposites that create dissonance and beg for middle ground in order to be at peace within yourself. Reflection on the past year lends itself for the opportunity to grow and change, this is the best way I have found to create peace in my heart and mind.

This past year I found myself reaching my healthiest physical state in a number of years. I had been actively working to lose weight and make healthier food choices and portion control. (I admit never mastered, but always getting better.) Once that was in check it was time to amp up my exercise goals. So I finally tried a spin class! Thankfully Michayla came with me because I may have chickened out if she hadn't been there to keep me accountable!

It was hard. I won’t kid you on that one, but we went to Village Spin in Medina, NY and were instantly welcomed which was helpful in taking away some of my apprehension. Heather DiGiacomo runs a fabulous business, always adding new classes to meet our needs and scheduling. No matter your age, or skill set- you feel wanted when you walk through the door. The staff is very knowledgeable. They are passionate about their fitness but in a way that sweeps you up in their enthusiasm, and their style of instructing never feels pushy. 

My first “ride” was difficult. I could barely turn up the tension. I couldn’t manage standing and pedaling at the same time very well, my legs ached and I won’t even mention the burn I felt in my backside...but I kept going at my own rate (no one calls you out for going slower either…) and I finished the class. Exhausted, out of breath, sweaty and sore, but I finished. It was the most exhilarating feeling I’d had in a very long time! The best part about it was that it was all me! Yes, the instructor encouraged me through the class and I could see Michayla doing her thing as well as others on their bikes; however, nobody but me was doing my work! I was really pleased with myself for seeing it through. And it’s true what they say about endorphins kicking in and lifting your mood- I felt happier in a way that had been absent for a very long time. I couldn’t wait to go back to another class.

My mind and body were letting me know that I was ready for the next step in navigating my journey. That first class was in May. It’s now January and 3-5 times a week you’ll find me at Village Spin taking a spin class, TRX or BootCamp. I'm always excited to go to class, even when I'm not-if that makes sense. One of the best parts of this new year was not having to “start” or “get back into” an exercise regimen. 

There are numerous battles we fight each day and many are hard to conquer, so this victory I am thankful for. I was relying on a lot of medications to try and get healthy and right now I no longer need to. I still battle depression, fatigue and exhaustion, but the way I feel after exercising pushes me to keep doing it. A stronger body on the outside is contributing to my strength on the inside. The grace of this blessing is immeasurable. 

God’s Blessings and Happy New Year to you! Live with Purpose <3

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