CrazyBusy Mama! (Dot Calm)

Years ago, when I was going through a time of crushing stress, I began experiencing heart palpitations. My heart would race and then pound like crazy — here, there, and everywhere. Not only was my heart following a different drummer, it was the drummer.

When I finally saw my doctor about the palpitations, the only thing the EKG picked up was a slight arrythmia, something that he said would not have caused the strange beats. He then asked if I was under stress, and I explained what was going on. What he said next was an eye opener: “If you don’t let the stress out, it will find its own way out.” He suggested I exercise.

That was over 10 years ago, but it’s great advice that I’ve never forgotten. Now that I’m going through another period of heavy duty stress, and dealing with more palpitations (not to mention anxiety and depression), I’m finally “taking it to heart.”

I’ve been working out for the last month or so, following the ExerciseTV videos on Comcast’s OnDemand. I’ve already lost a couple of inches and a few pounds, all from working out at home. My abs are looking defined for the first time in my life, and my legs are getting strong. Is my stress gone? No, but working out takes my mind off of it for the time being, and being stronger physically makes me feel like I can handle anything.

If you don’t have Comcast, you can see the same videos at ExerciseTV.tv. I like to change up my routine, and look forward to trying new workouts. I’ve been doing the following workouts as my routine for this past week:

• Pilates Legs Slimmer and Toner with Nicole Stewart
• Abs and Back Workout with Amy Dixon
• Pink Ribbon Workouts – Strength Training for Runners and Walkers with Holly Perkins
• Pink Ribbon Workouts – Sports Warm Up with Holly Perkins

I also recommend any of Billy Blanks’ Tae Bo workouts — you’ll be able to find some of those either on Comcast or at ExerciseTV.tv.

Tomorrow we’ll look at other fantastic benefits you’ll reap from working out. See you then!

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