colorful bikes

What I do on my treadmill in the corner of the bedroom every morning probably wouldn’t even qualify as exercise to my friend, Stacy. She rides her bike across entire states and hikes up mountains with her daughters.

But, those thirty minutes on the treadmill kind of save my life. Or, at least, my sanity.

I know I could push harder. I could add more incline. Do a few interval sprints. Instead, I mostly walk. And read a book on my tablet. I do sweat, which is my only exercise goal in the mornings.

I think of every excuse to stay away from the treadmill. Because I mostly hate it. My legs ache. My feet hurt. My body does not want to be pushed.

But then I remember how I will feel mid-morning if I haven’t exercised. And I tie my shoes and get to it.

I’m not looking for the runner’s high, but I do need the release of endorphins that come with a bit of exercise. My mind clears. My attitude lifts. My heart cheers. (Once I can breathe again)

And, I need that help. It may surprise you, Dear Reader, to know that even an eternal optimist needs an attitude adjustment some days. Okay, most days. And just a little exercise will do that for me.

I know it probably isn’t enough. I’m sure I could do more. But for this season of life, it is what I can manage. So, I do it. And I don’t beat myself up over how slow I go or how easy I work. Instead, I give myself credit for showing up. And I feel quite proud, actually.

Where have you been showing up lately? Give yourself some credit for that.  And stop comparing yourself to the friend who climbs mountains. I expect she is proud of you, too.