The New Year has come and gone. We are almost … almost… to springtime. We endured the snow, the extreme cold. So what now? Many of us have become more depressed. The bad weather, not to mention the bad economy leave us feeling more stressed as well. Some deal with the stress and depression by eating more ‘comfort’ foods. Some are found at the bar drinking more alcohol than ever. Others turn to other dark outlets like excessive hookups online or illegal drug use. What is happening to us Baltimore? There will ALWAYS be things that can cause depression and stress…. once you relieve one stressor, another is created. 

Now, although it is the nature of my career and lifestyle as a personal trainer and fitness instructor to tell you what to do in terms of how to solve these issues, I know it doesn’t work that way. We all know if you want change… you have to REALLY WANT IT! No one can force your hand at getting your butt in the gym. No one can force you to cut yourself off at the bar because you already had six cocktails. No one is going to stop you from logging onto Manhunt or checking the Craigslist ads for that next hookup. Will power is certainly the hardest challenge. How do we address that? How do we find will power? This column is about taking the steps for a better you. Using the resources and tools around you to make the “BRAND NEW YOU” is the only way to ensure success. This is 2010 folks. We must change with the times.  We must focus on our health and well being. You are no good to your work, your loved ones, or your community if your health diminishes.

First, we must identify our stressors and causes of depression. This is the first step towards tackling our problems. Besides the crappy weather, there are a variety of issues we face.  That paycheck may not have increased this year because companies are struggling. Or for some people they are only working part time and not finding that full time job that will cover all their bills. Bob Brown may loathe his job but it is full time and he should consider that a blessing. Sarah Smith is working a full time job and two part time jobs just to afford her tiny studio apartment and bills here in Mt. Vernon. 

The next step is to make a list of what our stressors are. Take a moment to write down a complete list of those things that cause stress in your life. Then make a second list of what ideas we have to change them. One may be to get a part time job to supplement our income. One may be to join the gym so we can shed those extra pounds. One may be to cut off that ex that we just can’t let go of. It ended for a reason, that person is not the right partner and you are only wasting your energy more keeping them that close to your heart. It is time to move on. 

Now, we have identified and listed the issues. Now it is time to TAKE ACTION. Don’t wait one more day! Take one of the possible solutions to your stressors and RUN WITH IT.   Stop making excuses! Stop feeling bad! You do not want to feel bad ANYMORE, right? Count your blessings and reach high to make yourself the best you can be. You are never too old or too sad or pathetic. If you have a pulse and are not on your death bed… you can get better! Work to find happiness with yourself again. Join the gym. Take classes to get in shape, hire a trainer, or simply get on the treadmill and walk. Take action today!!!! Your health and future depend on it. Studies prove that people that get regular exercise are happier than those who don’t. Also, you reduce the change of health problems down the road. With the rising numbers of HIV positive people in our city, working out just makes sense right? Get out those sneakers and sweat pants or shorts and get your butt moving. 

Need more help? Now it is time to form and enlist your support network. Your friends, co-workers, neighbors, family members, spouse, lover, boyfriend/girlfriend need to know you want to change. They need to support you in taking these steps. You have to tell them… “Hey. I need to lose 20 pounds. Please don’t make fried chicken when I come over. Please come to the gym with me and take the step class. Please spend more time with me this weekend so I don’t lament over my ex. Better yet, let’s get out and walk or go shopping. I know it is unhealthy for me to spend hours and hours perusing hookup sites. “ 

Get your gym clothes on and get outside this weekend. Instead of driving to meet your friends out, walk that distance. Grab water on the way instead of that latte or diet coke. When you meet your pals before heading to the Hippo for happy hour, stop and get a salad with grilled chicken and some soup. Cut yourselves off at 3 or 4 drinks and drink water in between. Don’t head to a late night joint for that fast food. Go home and eat some fruit and granola. You have to try to make a change! Why not start today?!

Today is a new day.   Time for the “BRAND NEW YOU.”

Need more help? Email me…. den@mvfit.com.