December 30, 2014 was my last day of work. My job was coming to an end as of January 1, 2015 and the office was closed on New Year’s Eve and Day. It was traumatic. I had only found out about this approximately six weeks prior. It wasn’t because of anything I’d done; it was due to budget issues. My [former] organization is a non-profit that relies heavily on government funding and private donations. Unfortunately, not enough of the latter was raised during the previous budget year and this resulted in my position being eliminated.
After the last day of work, I turned to physical activity to get me through the evening. My boyfriend was unavailable, so once I got home, I went for a long walk. I walked nearly 90 minutes and covered approximately seven miles. It was important for me to get my head settled. Moving my body made me feel better. THIS was a huge moment for me. As someone who suffers from emotional overeating, deciding to go for a walk instead of turning to food was a personal victory.
Since my job ended, I have spent more time concentrating on my body. I have applied for approximately 15 jobs in the last six weeks, but there is only so much I can do. Most positions specify “no phone calls,” so I have to wait to hear from these companies and organizations. By working out, I have been able to calm those voices of doubt and fear that can sometimes be overwhelming.
In addition, I began a new workout program, Body Beast. This is a weight lifting program presented by Beach Body and it has been a welcome change for me. While I have consistently incorporated weight lifting into my workout routine over the years, this is the first time that I am utilizing a program that requires my concentration on building muscle and changing my body. It has been a life saver.
I realize that it is important that I continue to work on my health during a time of uncertainty and change. Right now there are only a few things that I can control, but by continuing to work out, eat right and develop my body, I will minimize the feelings of depression. 2015 is still a very new year and by accepting what life is throwing at me, but not allowing it to get me down, I am sure that I will be triumphant.
Let me ask you, when life throws you a curve ball, how do you deal? Are you able to utilize physical activity as a coping mechanism? Have you had a similar experience of losing something or someone important, and were able to continue or begin a workout program? Let me know about your experience.
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