My two-year-old jumped on Disney’s Frozen bandwagon waaay later than the rest of the world, likely because her attention span couldn’t fathom more than five minutes of anything until close to two years after the movie came out. So, in a sense, this whole “Let It Go” song is fresh on my mind.
If you’re beginning to speculate why I have chosen to Let It Go when it pertains to my health and fitness and want me to tell you to give yourself a hall pass in this area of life, you will be sadly disappointed. If you think I’m going to tell you to Let It Go when it comes to your health and fitness, think again…
I used to be a workout feign. I love(d) long runs, tough and long circuit or strength sessions and hot yoga at a studio not exactly conveniently located. I felt inadequate if I wasn’t getting some form of major activity for nearly an hour every day of the week. And then I had kids. And went back to work. And realized how demanding my husband’s career can be. And try to keep up with all of the responsibilities in our home. And have friends whom I want to spend time with. And close relationships to be nurtured. And countless life responsibilities. Yet, I still have a longing to live a healthy life and to be fit.
So now here I am, letting go of the old workout feign in me and continuing to transform and shape the new version of my workout feign self. Quite honestly, I don’t fit the mold of my “old life” anymore. My time, energy, availability and flexibility are subjected to my family life. Though I wouldn’t want it any other way, I still intend to make my health, wellness and fitness a priority. I have had to reshape my thought process and let go of the expectation that anything will be the same as before. The idea of always having an hour or more to work out? I let it go. The hope that my intended 30 minutes of activity will not be interrupted or that I will have all the energy in the world to push myself to the max in my upcoming workout? I let that go too.
I think it was hard for me to do this, at first. The natural perfectionist in me wanted to go big or go home, but that is not the mindset that will keep me healthy over a lifetime. A friend of mine that has older school-aged children reassured me that it will get better, or easier, or whatever you would like to call it. She appears to be the model of raising a healthy family – healthy, balanced home cooked meals, an active lifestyle, working out nearly daily. It almost looks unattainable! But, she remembers a time when it was a challenge. So, what do I do? I enjoy where I’m at in life (Who wants to miss out on the here and now?!) and continue to let it go.
I love my family more than anything. I would do absolutely anything for them. And I love myself too. I love and appreciate my time and ability to work out. I feel better physically, mentally and emotionally when I do. Whether it’s a quick 20 minutes of yoga or a 30 minute strength circuit, or a long run when the opportunity allows, I capitalize on it. I push myself. I make the most of my time. And I want to lead by example. I want my children to see that I make this a priority and they can too.
My heart is in this life. To be happy and healthy.
Think there’s only one picture of how to make that happen? Let it go.
…And start here: An easy, at-home, no excuses, 20 minute workout. No experience necessary.
You totally nailed it – Health is about balance, not perfection. A quick workout that gets the heart rate up is always good! Great post.
Thank you. I’m so glad you agree!
This. This. Right.now. Is me! And I only have one! But I’m trying. Thank you Lisa for encouragement to keep going and no ‘ go home’ as you put it!
Happy to be an encourager! 🙂
Very impressive. Exquisite writing, I can tell you have found your heart and soul. So glad you are sharing your gifts.
This means so much! Thank you!!