Taking Time for Me

For the majority of my adult life, I didn't work out.  At all.  Have you ever heard that saying, "If you see me running, call the police because there is someone chasing me?"  That was me in a nutshell.  


Then, I moved to Meridian, Mississippi, and I had a ton of time on my hands.  No job, no real passions to fill my time.  Davis and I joined a gym to work on our fitness (shout out, Fergie).  I started attending spinning classes and then discovered YOGA.  I say it in all caps because it could be one of my favorite activities ever.  Not long after, I started running and really came to understand what all the fuss was about.  My body has never transformed into Giselle's, and while that would be great, that's not what is important.

Her Downward Dog is undoubtedly
better than mine.

It's about the escape and the knowledge that I am doing something for me, and for me alone.  In all honesty, I think it's one of the greatest gifts we can give ourselves.  Exercise will ward off all those pesky ailments later in life like obesity, diabetes, and heart disease.  While obviously those things are super important, I relish in what it does for me mentally.  When I spend hours of my week in the yoga studio (shout out Maitri Wellness) or hitting the pavement, I'm a better person to be around.  Just ask Davis.  I'm more confident and my mind is at peace.  I feel good about myself.  


Last April, I ran in a half-marathon with my friend Kim Kennedy.  I loved having goals associated with training, and finishing the race gave me a great sense of accomplishment.

Kim Kennedy, Michelle Pennington, & Me

I won't lie, I fall off the wagon frequently.  I get too busy (or too lazy), and one week turns into a month that I haven't devoted any time to my physical wellbeing.  Then, all of a sudden, I get the urge and am back on the wagon.  But, hey, that's part of being human.

So, now, I'm going to get out with my iPod and my Levi and enjoy this beautiful day - and do something just for me.