Alright, let's get real! I know how much many of us struggle to keep up with a fitness routine, regiment, mantra- whatever you want to call it! There are a few things I can say about combating this and the first thing I will say is that you a) Need to find something to do that you love and thoroughly enjoy doing! and b) you need to do what is right for YOU. I know- mind blowing right? How crazy is the thought that fitness should be fun and something you are doing completely for YOU?!

 

My Journey with fitness began years ago during my undergrad. As a girl that struggled with anxiety and depression from a young age, I was looking for a natural way to cope. A girlfriend of mine asked if I wanted to go for a run after class. I hesitated a bit as I had never envisioned myself as a long distance runner but ended up committing as I thought "It won't be that bad." I remember my first 5k like it was yesterday. As most runner's would say or share, "after the first 5k, I was hooked." I definitely fell in love with running on that day, and the love has only continued to grow throughout the years. A few full marathons, 10k's and half-marathons later, I was more than an avid runner- it just became a part of my life and daily routine. Running was the manifestation of my love for fitness and anything that would get me outdoors and active. Not only was I able to cope with my anxiety and depression, I was exposed to a new world. All you really needed was a great pair of runners and work out clothes. Running came everywhere with me throughout my travels, weekends at the cottage, weekday mornings etc.

 

The second part of my fitness journey began with my first introduction to Yoga. As someone who was always willing to try anything related to fitness and self-medicating for anxiety and depression, the practice of Yoga always intrigued and fascinated me. I remember taking my first class, not sure what to expect and receiving so much more than I could have asked for. Yoga has given me the most peace of mind and inner peace. I would love to say that I have the most easy and stress-free days, but I, like most of you, am not able to say that every day is breezy! Yoga has given me the tools that I need to find my own peace and gratitude with each day and for that I am grateful!

 

My story, will be different from yours- or maybe it is similar. Regardless of my experiences, it is so important to note that although we are all on different fitness and wellness journey's, your happiness and self-love should be the most important journey that you are nurturing throughout this process. And I am hoping that through reading this page you may try a new work out class, a new recipe or gather your girls and try that dance class you have been dying to do! I will be sharing my favorite tips, recipes, classes and basically anything that I absolutely love when it comes down to fitness, because I know how much of a challenge it can be to stay motivated! Share your stories with me, be proud, brave, confident and always remember that whether big or small- whatever you are doing to make yourself stronger and healthier, you are only making yourself better!

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Diana Xo

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