07/05/2023
Exercise saved my life.
8 years ago, social anxiety consumed me.
The thought of going to a packed place made me feel super uneasy.
The moment I stepped into a busy environment, my body would go into overdrive.
I couldn't shake off the feeling that everyone was looking at me.
This crippling anxiety held me hostage in my own home.
It was fear and dread—wrapped inside a box of terror.
This led me to drop out of university, leaving me with no prospects or direction.
I joined the gym.
Making a daily commitment to show up helped me overcome the rut of staying in bed all day.
Despite my best intentions, I found it difficult to make it to the gym.
Often, I would start walking there, only to turn around and head back home.
However..
Exercise offered a space where I could work on improving myself, feel empowered, and gain confidence.
It served as a safety net, catching me when I stumbled.
Life was going to s**t? Go for a run
Having financial troubles? Go to the gym
Family doing my head in? Go hit the heavy bag
It gave me the tools to overcome anything and for that I will always be grateful.
There’s no cures to this s**t, however there are so many things that can help.
Working out is a regular part of my life, but it’s not my only source of comfort and security.
I confronted the things that used to haunt me and I hope you can too.