Written by So, it’s all out there. Now what? It’s time to try to treat the bipolar naturally in conjunction with the meds.
Exercise
Many believe exercise is beneficial to bipolar sufferers. Up to now, I have never cared about studies. I have a family full of crazies and not a single one of them exercises. But if I want to feel better, I need to give it a shot. So here goes.
To Run or Not to Run
I have been walking to build up to running for a few weeks. Walking does seem to calm my mind if even just while I’m doing the activity. There are very few moments that my mind isn’t thinking of 50 different things at once.
My next step is to start C25K. There’s an app for that. I have even made plans to participate in a 5K in March. Setting a small goal will keep me motivated while I get used to the idea of moving my body. After that, I plan on training for a 10K then a half marathon.
Although cardio exercises are better for bipolar than strength training, I want to be strong and able to do anything I want physically. Plus, it wouldn’t be a terrible thing to look good naked. My routine was pulled off of Nerd Fitness.
My ultimate fitness goal is to complete a Tough Mudder with some of my best friends.
Diet
The same smart ass people that advocate exercise also rave about diet. I have never had a good relationship with food. I was diagnosed with stress-induced anorexia after my first trip to crazy town. After getting medicated and having another baby, I went from under-weight to over-weight.
If I’m really going to try to change my body (and the way my mind works), I need to change the way I eat. This will be a gradual process. If I try to change everything all at once, I will fail. My diet will start at My Fitness Pal. There’s an app for that too.
Fifty pounds is a lot to lose, but not impossible. Supposedly, when I’m skinny and fabulous, I will feel better. Who knows, but I can’t feel worse. So, why not?
Education
Along the way, I plan on learning more things about myself and my disorder. As I figure things out, you will be the first to know.
