I’m evolving …

I’m not having a mid-life crisis. That, I know. I’m just ready for change. I’m essentially a couch potato who is married to Mr. Workout- gotta-do-something-always-never-sit-down. I used to view myself as lazy, but I’m finding that’s not true. I have a demanding job, I’m a great mom… It’s just that sedentary activities have filled my down time: TV, reading, munching on crunchy, salty foods….

Lately, though, I realize that my limit-my-exercise-because-it’s-hard ways are catching up with me. No real strength to speak of — walking up stairs winds me– tired all of the time, walking around with pinched shoulders… I took the Real Age test and found that my real age was 43. Not bad if you’re 43, but I’m 37. Mr. Workout, on the other hand, has a Real Age of 32. He’s 37 as well. According to his Real Age results, his secret is basically this: working out, having a strong social network, and having a happy marriage. Unfortunately, he likes crunchy, salty foods, too.

Well, I don’t work out, I don’t make time for my friends, and how can he be happily married if I’m not???

I’d already been working on my psyche, which I suppose is why I was ready to take the Real Age test to begin with. My results were eye-opening, but I can honestly say that I wasn’t surprised to find that my hubby is aging better than me… he still has a 6-pack and the same body that he had when we were 20. I was, however, surprised to find that my body was six years older than my real age. I was surprised to find that he is happily married. I was surprised to find that my I’m-a-martyr negative attitude was directly influencing my health. I do not want to spend my elderly years hunched over and frail because I didn’t take care of myself while I could.

A friend called and said, “Let’s walk,” so I did. This was several months ago, and it has changed my life. I am NOT an exercise buff. I LOVE MY COUCH!!! Nonetheless, I can’t deny what’s happening to me. The stress is melting away and my psyche is shaping up. No, the pounds aren’t dropping off, but I’m maintaining a 20-pound weight loss from a year ago while still supporting my fast food habit. I just have more energy… a cliche, I know. It didn’t happen overnight, but I’m now seeing the benefits. Plus, I get to have insta-therapy every morning with a girlfriend.

So… how am I evolving?

I’ve found kettlebells, and I’m three weeks in. I’m hooked! Amazing since I’m afraid of weights. Actually afraid. I took body measurements and plan on charting my progress. This is a huge step for me, considering I once left a gym crying after throwing my guts up.

I’m working on my issues rather than pretending they don’t exist.

I’m making time for my friends, thus making time for me.

I have less mommy guilt.

I’m realizing that I can be happily married.

I can’t wait to see what happens next.