When medicine doesn’t cost us anything

Exercise is the medicine that doesn’t cost anything. I’m not talking about joining a gym or buying expensive equipment although I have done both.  I did belong to a gym once but decided to have to “doll up” and keep my stomach sucked in every time I went wasn’t for me.

Plus, I’m highly competitive so that didn’t help. I had to execute all the moves perfectly and prove to have more stamina than anyone else. It was just too much like work, not the exercise, all the rest of it.

Like most of us, I don’t like “thinking” about exercise but I like knowing that I’m doing something proactive about my health.  I’m a strong advocate for using exercise to fend off depression and anxiety as well.

I’ve said this before but I’ve literally walked off an anxiety attack through exercise. I can’t think of a single condition that exercise of some sort doesn’t help.  Exercise has been shown to work as well if not better than medication for mild to moderate cases of depression.  The “experts” say it’s because it’s the endorphins that are released.  While I’m sure that’s true, I think it’s also because we feel we have done something for ourselves and that feels empowering.

I always wonder why some people are so willing to take another pill when something as simple as walking could accomplish the same benefit.  And a gym membership or home equipment isn’t necessary either.  Walking thirty to forty minutes about five days a week is enough.

One of my coping skills to get through this period of my mom’s illness has been exercise.  It’s been a rare day I haven’t walked.  It’s almost spiritual for me. I don’t believe our lives are meant to be compartmentalized. We should move seamlessly from one area of our lives to another.  If the Holy Spirit lives within us, then doesn’t it make sense that there’s no such thing being spiritual only during our “religious” activities.

One last thing though.  When I walk I still have to have my make-up on. Sad, huh?

God bless and have a good day.

Rebecca

Hi. I'm so glad you're here. My blog focuses on faith and mental health issues such as mood disorders like depression, anxiety, and dysthymia (chronic low moods that don't qualify as depression.) I post DIY and decorating projects when I can. My book, "Depression Has A Big Voice. Make Yours Bigger! (Expanded Edition), is on sale at all online retailers. I have a Psychology degree and post-graduate courses in Clinical Pastoral Education. I am a former hospital chaplain, Bible teacher, and retreat/conference inspirational speaker. Thank you for visiting and may you feel God's presence today.

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