When my brother died, I turned to running as a way to cope with the grief. It wasn't just about adding structure to my day or using the time to think; it was about putting one foot in front of the other and moving forward. Running became a non-negotiable part of my grief journey, and it still serves as a huge crutch for my mental health today. But what's fascinating is how exercise can help manage not only grief but also chronic physical pain. I was diagnosed with endometriosis in 2017, a condition that causes debilitating pain. The delay in my diagnosis is similar to the experience of many other women, and it highlights the importance of finding something you enjoy when it comes to exercise. For me, that's running and being outside. But what many people don't realize is that exercise can also help with fertility struggles, which come with endometriosis. It gives me structure, release, and headspace, and sometimes I train in a group because it's nice to be around people and have a bit of a community. Run clubs are becoming a really big thing, almost like the new dating apps! So if I can't be bothered to run on my own, I'll go and join a run club or an exercise class because it's fun. In my opinion, there are no negatives to exercise. It prevents everything from diabetes and obesity to mental health issues. The more you do it, the better you will feel. And that is a fact. Personally, I think that exercise is a powerful tool for managing grief, chronic pain, and fertility struggles. It's not just about the physical benefits; it's about the mental and emotional release that comes with it. So if you're struggling, find something you enjoy and stick with it. You'll never regret a workout.
