Walk It Off

One of the harder things about going back to work is having to give up going to Zumba classes every day. I had thought I might be able to catch a few classes during the week if we got off in time, but so far that has not worked out. I know without the exercise the little bit of extra weight I still have to lose won't come off as easily so it's a bit depressing having to miss Zumba. But, it's more than just the inability to lose the weight as quickly. Zumba had become more to me than just a fun way to lose weight. Zumba became an integral part in my healing process. I know it might not make any sense to most people, but somehow through Zumba I found myself again and I found some peace.

Today when Meredith (our visiting writer) suggested we take a walk during lunch, I was grateful. Not only was it a beautiful day, but we were filming in a very beautiful area of Charlotte. So we spent the lunch break walking around the neighborhood admiring the beautiful houses and stopping to smell the flowers. This was the second time I had spent my lunch with Meredith on a walk and I really enjoyed it. Unfortunately, she left today to go back to LA so I will have to continue the lunchtime walks on my own. It's not every day that we are filming in a place that allows for a lunchtime walk, but hopefully I will be able to sneak one in at least a few days a week. What I realized today was that while it wasn't Zumba, a walk could at least give me the endorphin boost I needed to stay on track with my healing. Sure the walk isn't going to help that much with the weight loss, but I'm more concerned with my mental health these days than anything. In the beginning the weight loss was important because I desperately needed to not look pregnant anymore. I think it's safe to say I no longer look pregnant now and my focus has shifted to improving my mental and emotional health while also continuing to stay physically active. I knew going back to work would be a struggle, but I think the lunchtime walks are a good alternative to Zumba during the week and the weekends will be as jam packed with Zumba classes as I can get them.