If you follow me on social media you will notice I’m pretty much always posting pictures of myself in bikinis. Lucky for me I have been blessed with great genes (both my parents have athletic builds) and I never really had to work hard for my body. However, I was always the energetic kid wanting to go fishing, play outside till it got dark, or creating my own choreographed dance moves to Britney Spears. So I’ve been pretty active throughout my life until high school. I stopped playing sports and would go to the gym a few times a week with friends but my workout was pretty basic (crunches, elliptical, and leg press). I didn’t notice much of a difference in my physique so I eventually stopped going.

I ended up trying to run from my house to a nearby park and that was awful. I loved being outside and the mental break running gave me but I honestly hate running long distances. I much rather do sprints than have to run more than a mile. I never got that runner’s high and would just find myself so bored. I then tried out rollerblading. I had a blast! I was still outside exploring but didn’t feel fatigued the way I did when I ran. Biking also became another fun exercise. Unfortunately it was short lived. Unless I packed my bike and took it with me to Key Biscayne (or another bike friendly location) I would feel so nervous a crazy Miami driver would hit me.

At this point, I started college and began to workout at the gym on campus. I fell back into that basic routine of cardio and doing a couple leg machines in addition to squatting (without weight). Once again nothing really changed. Yes I may have looked skinny but I didn’t feel stronger and that was my main goal. I decided to spice things up and signed up for a yoga class. Oh boy! I didn’t realize the class was for advanced budokon yogis. I was impressed that I was able to do the majority of the poses but when my instructor flipped herself upside and balanced on her head I thought to myself I’ll sit this one out.

I really wish I would have stayed with yoga because it allowed me to clear my head and I could feel my muscles working together. It was an amazing exercise for my physical and mental health. I hope to start going consistently once again. I went a few weeks ago to a gentle yoga class at the YMCA. The poses weren’t challenging and I didn’t break a sweat but I was very grateful I went. I was having a horrible week. The class gave me the opportunity to reflect on my mental health. I began to think what’s truly important in my life, why do I have so much stress, and what are my goals. It was at this moment I decided despite working full time I need to make an effort to show my body love. My short term goal is to do some form of a workout or physical activity at least 3-4 times a week. My long term goal (which will be a continuous goal) is to live a a healthier and happier life.