Friday, March 5, 2010

Coming Alive--Continued

So here I was--enrolled in a night class for personal training. Actually, I was very nervous. John and I have worked out together since I was 16, so theoretically I knew a thing or two. Right?!?

The class was a TON of fun! It all just....clicked. My brain could totally wrap around all of the info given, I asked questions (not something I do in classes--too shy usually), participated in ALL of the activities, had an inspiring and amazing client for 9 weeks, and just loved every second of it all. I can't say I've felt that way about any other subject or area of work.

Finally, I had found something that MADE SENSE and brought me joy. I love helping others, especially other women. Feeling good about your body is priceless, and unfortunately it's hard to come by these days. Too much media input has left women feeling depressed, unworthy, and completely unattractive.

So sad.

Anywho, it all began making sense. I could be a personal trainer, make my own hours, and still be a "stay at home mom." Perfect!

I had a friend ask me one time if there was anything in my life--besides my husband and children--that made me "come alive." At the time, the answer was a big NO. I felt like I was just blowing through each day, filling it with chores and whatnot, just so I would somehow feel important or needed.
In other words, I had a serious acceptance issue. I began to become extremely needy and rely on everyone around me to provide me with my own self worth. Bad idea.

Personal training, nutrition, health---they ALL make me come alive! I'm excited about my future and career. I can't wait to work with clients, gain new friendships, and make a difference in someone else's life. I want to see others come alive when they discover their inner strength, their hidden power, and their amazing bodies. Everyone deserves that. Everyone!

So if it seems as though I'm obsessed with fitness, the gym, kettlebells, all things nutrition-related, and health, I AM! It makes me come alive.

Have YOU found what makes you come alive?!? I certainly hope so.

I found this quote yesterday, and it pretty much sums up what I've been feeling lately after working with several female clients (and just from the pure fact that I deal with this myself!). Just thought I'd share:

“For women...bras, panties, bathing suits, and other stereotypical gear are visual reminders of a commercial, idealized feminine image that our real and diverse female bodies can't possibly fit. Without these visual references, each individual woman's body demands to be accepted on its own terms. We stop being comparatives. We begin to be unique.” ~Gloria Steinem


~Mel

2 comments:

Andy said...

Thank you, Josh. You brought a big smile to my face today. I totally agree with everything you said here. I appreciate feedback of any kind, so keep it coming! Love you bro!

Melanie Lyons said...

Ummm Josh wins "sweetest little brother award...ever!"
So glad you found your niche! Loved the post.

Funny you mention the media. I am leading a girl's retreat this weekend and one of our big discussions will be the lies that young and old one's are fed by our culture/media. Been reading "5 Conversations you must have with your daughter" Interesting stuff.

Anywho...Your desire to be healthy and to maintain that in your family is an inspiration. You're like my Jillian...minus the yelling. (which you probably would yell if we ever worked out together....)
Keep the post coming!