No, not running from your problems but putting on a pair of running shoes and literally hitting the pavement. Years ago, I discovered that regular exercise, a healthy diet and reasonable balance of life led to a healthy me. To give you some perspective, I’m a person that has dealt with depression and anxiety most of my life. In the past, I processed my feelings in unhealthy ways. As I ventured into marriage and motherhood, these coping mechanisms were no longer an option. Through a combination of my faith, solid therapy and hard work, I found what worked for me. I finally discovered what keeps me emotionally stable and level headed. However, life is not always neat, predictable and orderly. Curve balls can throw you off kilter and leave you reeling, wondering what hit you. Two years ago, I found myself single, in a new city, with a 6 year old- minus the family and community support I previously enjoyed.

Caught up in the whirlwind of adjusting to a new environment, navigating a stressful job and dealing with the never ending tantrums of my previously happy little boy, I found a million excuses why I couldn’t work out. Finally, it got to the point where I had enough. I packed my workout gear and took that lunch break that I didn’t have time for. I hit the local track and something magical happened- I felt better. I had more energy to navigate my impossibly busy life and felt a tremendous weight lift. You may have a ton of excuses and you definitely won’t feel like it. I encourage you to take a deep breath and then get out and move. It doesn’t matter if it’s a walk, run, bike ride, rollerblading session, you name it. Simply get outdoors, find your flow and go with it!