What’s up Wellness Warriors? I’ve got another round of things that have caught my eye lately. Plus a few behind the scenes updates. As usual, nothing sponsored here, just me oversharing.
For years scientists have studied longevity in the Blue Zones. If you don’t know what those are, they are areas in the world (Sardinia, Italy; Icaria, Greece, Nicoya, Costa Rica; Okinawa, Japan; and the Seventh Day Adventists in Loma Linda, CA), where a larger than average percentage of the population lives much longer than average. The data gathered from these areas has given rise to all sorts of dietary advice (the Mediterranean Diet, for example). And while there are so many pieces to take from these populations that cover many Dimensions of Wellness, there are now exercise recommendations!
I also ran across this great article that talks about how to build a sustainable program. Warriors, you know that I am all about that consistency and any tips that might help you, I am happy to pass along!
I’ve written/vlogged a bit about shoes and how proper footwear is important during exercise. This article is a great resource to add. Especially if you have kids who play sports.
Many of us have probably experienced burnout over the past year and a half. Whether we know it or not. But your body survived a global pandemic. The only thing you owe it is kindness.
And that leads me to a little personal update. Over the course of my life, I have experienced generalized anxiety at different points. Usually it rears its head during times of change and stress (planning my wedding during my final year of grad school, post partum). The last year and a half has definitely qualified as that. Anxiety, for me, typically manifests as control. And so I managed the beginning of a global health crisis by locking down in control mode. But as restrictions started to ease late this spring and requests for summer get-togethers rolled in, I started experiencing increasingly intense symptoms which culminated in panic attacks.
I believe firmly that physical activity plays a huge role in our mental health, but the mind also influences the body. I’ve taken a step back from what I wish my ideal exercise program was, to understand that my body needs and wants walks outside and gentle, grounding yoga right now. These things are not only helping me manage some of the physical symptoms, but are helping me focus on my mental health right now. Dumbbells will be waiting for me when my body and mind tell me I am ready again. But taking care of my wellness, in all its facets and Dimensions, is more important right now.
If you find yourself in a similar spot, please know that you are not alone. No matter how big the mountain may seem to you, just remember that baby steps still move you forward. One small change can lead you to better places. And never be afraid or ashamed to ask for help if you feel you need it.
Thank you for being here with me, Warrior, I appreciate you!
