Not too long ago I celebrated my forty-second birthday. Not sure how I got here I swear I just turned twenty-one yesterday! None-the-less, so far this has been a transformational year. I am finally seeing the results of my hard work as it relates to my overall health. As the Summer and Fall gave way to a cold and windy Winter, I am being a lot better at staying hydrated. I find it is rather easier in the warmer months to drink water, however, as it gets colder, I need to be more intentional with consuming more water. The results: clearer skin, healthier scalp, shiny hair and a smaller wasitline.

I am especially proud of my weight loss as I am pushing myself to be comfortably uncomfortable. What does that look like? It means, I am working out before I start my day. Or shall I say my day starts with me getting up before the sun, driving while it’s still dark and very cold outside to my neighborhood gym. Familiar staff and fellow gym members greet me as I warm up, do cardio and strength training. I push myself to do this at minimum four days a week and at the most six days a week. Starting my day with good music and a sweat session has forced me to put myself back on my to do list. My mornings run smoother as I find myself with more energy and patience while getting my son up and off to school. My mind seems clearer and sharper. I am more in tune with my body and the impact exercise has done for not just my physical health, but my mental health as well.

Like many of you I am on this roller coaster ride of life. There is so much that has happened and is happening as it relates to the divisive political climate, actual climate change, as well as the never-ending skyrocketing costs of living in this country and abroad. Often times if feels like there is a lot happening in our world that we have no control over. Now more than ever, it is imperative that we focus on what we can control. When I look at the world through this lens it is easy for me to feel a bit at a loss. That is where my need to focus on what I can control helps me. I find this year long health journey one that I intend to keep. My knees feel stronger, my stamina has increased, and I don’t want to go back to sore knees, overly round cheeks, tummy and thighs.

What are you doing to stay sane during these times? Please share!