Stress Center Peer Support

I had a GREAT day last weekend! It was Sat and in the morning my husband convinced me to go to the gym. Even though I enjoy it, I usually am resistant to go on the weekends, I kind of just hybernate (which isn't good for me) so I actually decided to go. On my way to the gym I started to have stomach pains which I dismissed immediately as anxiety. I started my breathing and compassionate self-talk and before I knew it I felt better - once my stomach ache went away I forced myself to concentrate on how good I felt (I always tend to focus on when I'm not feeling well or anxious, never take the time to sit and think 'wow, I feel good today') so I did that. I concentrated on enjoying the drive to the gym and the fact that my stomach did not hurt! Once at the gym I went right on the treadmill and worked out... I then drove home and didn't use the bathroom. Usually when at the gym since I'm chugging so much water I force myself to literally go to the restroom every 30-45 mins which is unneccesary so I fought the urge! And I made it home no problem. After that my hubby and I had breakfast and headed out to go shopping! Now usually when we go shopping, I have to know which stores we are going to and in what order so I can mentally figure out where and when I can use every bathroom I come across. Well hubby totally switched it up and even though we went to the stores all out of sequence I didn't panic! I also didn't use the restroom once the WHOLE trip! We went to three stores and then to get some smoothies and I was perfectly fine! I actually felt terrific to be out and about on a weekend! I enjoyed the car ride and the gorgeous weather. Then right after getting home from the stores we went to see a friend at the park by our apartment and I brought my smoothie to drink there. Again, I never, ever drink (almost to the point of dehydration) when I'm not around my house for fear of having to go to the bathroom and there not being one, but I said 'forget it' and I wanted my smoothie and I drank the whole thing at the park - no bathroom stops. Then that night we went out to dinner with friends... we were at the restaurant for 3+ hrs having the best time! I had wine, salads, dinner, dessert, tea, etc and didn't panic once about getting sick from all the different foods. And again, no bathroom breaks! I felt stronger on Sat than I have in months!

I know its still a long road, but days like that make me remember why I'm fighting thru this.

glad you had such a great day!

Right on, Starr! I love reading these posts of peoples progress. It gets me excited for them (you) and me. It sounds like you are getting a good grasp of procedures to use to get through this.

Good Job!

Yeah for you!!!!!

What a great story. You have inspired me. I, too, often focus on what feels funny and not what feels good. That's a much better way to get through the day. I hope you have many more days like that one!!!

that is awesome. I always have a better day after I go to the gym. I put the program on my I-pod and listen to it at the gym on my harder days. Music on good days.

Thank you so much for sharing your experience!! I can almost hear the excitement in your voice I know that you will have many more to come,