Exercise is at the top of my list of resolutions for 2016. Nothing original about that as it seems to be high in everyone’s list.
But something really clicked in my mind the other day.
Captain gave me a bit of a lecture how I don’t really do much for myself since I’m always busy taking care of everyone else. And I responded that I now do much more for myself than ever before. I go to the gym regularly and get to spend quality time with him. These are now my outlets.
But he responded that the gym is not “me” time as much as it’s a necessity.
Wha????
I never really thought of exercise as important as sleep or food or water.
Mind blown.
I always felt as if getting to the gym was strictly a way to treat myself. A luxury, of sorts.
And I used to get pissed as hell that Grayheart made it a top priority for him to exercise while I was at home (fat and bitter) taking care of our kids. He complained that I put my health last.
Truth be told, I was always so exhausted at the end of a long workday and dealing with the kids that thinking of getting to the gym at 8 or 9 pm was ludicrous. I’d miss out on time with the kids. Plus, who was going to clean the house? And when were we going to have quality time together as a couple? And sleep! Is it any good if you’re going to sleep at midnight? Ugh. All too familiar complaints of families with small children.
Perspective shift now.
My kids are now a bit older and don’t require the constant attention they needed as babies or toddlers. I drop them off at the childcare center in the gym and do my routine. And I feel so much better now that I’m thinner and physically strong again.
Happy and healthy mom = Happy family!
So now the real question is… what will I be doing solely for myself?
XO
You are one smart Mama. Reblogging to encourage all the others who need a kick in the pants, me included.
LikeLiked by 2 people
Aw, thanks! Much appreciated! Funny how sometimes things click and then you’re ready. π β€οΈ happy Monday!
LikeLiked by 2 people
I need to get ready.
LikeLiked by 1 person
You are more spritely than anyone I know. I’m sure you’re plenty ready! π
LikeLiked by 1 person
You are probably thinking of my mother who I post about constantly. I need to follow her example!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Possibly… But your humor… Not many people like you! It’s awesome!
LikeLike
Reblogged this on Nutsrok and commented:
This woman is smart! Check out Divorce With Me.
LikeLiked by 1 person
You are a delight to read. Go forth and prosper. Happy New Year! π
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you!!! This kind of support and encouragement really helps. I wish you a wonderful new year as well! Xo
LikeLike
You are more than welcome. Keep smiling. π π
LikeLiked by 1 person
People used to say to me “I have no idea how you find time to run. I could never do that.” I’d always tell them I made the time, it was a necessity. Having five young kids did make it a challenge (and still does) but my running time is my regular mental health break. Without it I probably could not have coped with the insanity of my life these past few years. So, yeah, exercise is as important as food and sleep.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Soooo true… I always admire moms that figure it out because it’s hard. we always put ourselves last. But what happens if we are not healthy and not around? Then it’s bad. So it’s preemptive action on our part. π xo
LikeLike
This is something I have been thinking about… There are a lot of older, Asian descent folks at my gym. They walk, do tai chi, stretch, and generally just come around every day to work at their movement. They just do it. Like Nike, but even more inspiring. It’s part of their culture and reality that your physical body will only sustain you if you sustain it, so you have to MOVE sometime. People in the western world often don’t take that to heart the same way
LikeLiked by 1 person
You’re absolutely right. Very cultural. We tend to push ourselves to the limit and are always sick as a nation.
I was in Lucca, Italy several years ago and was shocked and impressed how many elderly folks ride bicycle! It really takes balance and energy to ride around and up the hilly areas! But like you said, sustain your body and it’ll sustain you. π
LikeLike
This is so very true. No way would I think of all the work I put in on my running as luxury…it’s something I feel I have to do. Loads of work that make me feel better after. This is a very insightful post.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks, Deb! I wish I had looked at it like this before but I’m glad it finally clicked for me. π I love finding fellow runners because it really is a lifestyle thing. π xo
LikeLiked by 1 person
Me too. Here’s to some good runs in 2016.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Hahahaha I too thought going to the gym was like a “luxury” thing and not a necessity. Lol. I guess I may be changing my mind soon π
LikeLiked by 1 person
Right?! It’s soooo hard when we have so much on our plate! But I started hating how I looked and knew I had to change at some point. I think the divorce helped catapult that. Good luck finding time for it! Xo
LikeLiked by 1 person
Sing, paint, write poetry, play guitar, piano, take pictures of birds …
LikeLiked by 1 person
Writing it all down… I’m not poetic or musically inclined but the painting is high up there! π
LikeLike
I can help u with that dear LOL, shopping, reading, bubble baths, yummy treats! What I want to know is how u stay motivated. I can’t get myself to WANT to go to the gym. It just seems like such a hassle. Plus sweating is yucky.
LikeLiked by 1 person
LMAO! Well, my fat thighs and belly are keeping me motivated! Ha!
I like your thinking when it comes to self indulgence! π
LikeLiked by 1 person
Self indulgence … Might be the only thing I’m truly gifted at LOL π. We have to get together one of these days. I would love to meet u.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I was just thinking that! We are not far from each other and would have fun!
LikeLiked by 1 person
We totally would, and I’ll help u undo all the hard work you have done at the gym (another talent of mine) βΊοΈ
LikeLiked by 1 person
Lmao! Looking at those burger pics you’ve posted over the year, I believe you! Lol!
Is your email posted on your site?
LikeLiked by 1 person
I think its on the contact me page: TotallyCaroline@mail.com
LikeLiked by 1 person
K, I’ll send you an email soon π
LikeLiked by 1 person
I knew that captain was a keeper! Sounds like a shopping trip is in order very soon, psst I wear a size L!
LikeLiked by 1 person
lol! You just mean a shopping trip for me! π
LikeLiked by 1 person
Bubble bath, alone, without children toys. The ability to go to the toilet without at least one child knocking on the door,
LikeLike
I think most mum don’t take car enough of themselves. I like your new resolution ! Good luck with it !
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks, mlady! So far so good! I hope I can keep it up. I have my half marathon this Sunday and am very excited! Xo
LikeLike
Oh gosh, a half marathon…. i’m always impressed at people who can run more than 30 minutes π Good luck !
LikeLike