Tenacity.

In my previous post, I touched on the profound impact of our physical state, or what I affectionately refer to as our "meat suit," on our mental well-being and relationships with others. Today, I want to delve deeper into three key aspects: the pursuit of realistic aesthetic goals, the importance of prioritizing personal goals, and the transformative power of taking that daunting first step towards a healthier lifestyle. I still vividly recall lying in bed during the peak of my obesity, overwhelmed by a deep sense of self-disgust. I woke up each morning tired, sluggish, and on edge, unable to participate in the physical activities my friends enjoyed. Entering high school at over 300 pounds, a big moment came at an amusement park when I couldn't fit into a ride. Which as someone who enjoys the trill of roller coasters and high adrenaline situations was devastating. The sting of that experience was profound, but it wasn't that I lacked the desire to change or work towards a healthier version of myself. The truth was, I simply didn't know where to begin. And that mental shift didnt come until I graduated, after spending my entire childhood obese(#320 down to #161 in just over a years time). Yet, as I've come to realize, the path that scares us the most or remains unknown often holds the transformative journey we need to embark on. Will it be easy? No. Will it be enjoyable all the time? No. But the worthiness of living a fulfilling life, brimming with incredible experiences for your body, mind, and soul, because you dared to challenge yourself, is unquestionable.

In a world where the conversation around mental health is becoming increasingly important, the significance of physical exercise in promoting emotional well-being cannot be overstated. Science has repeatedly shown that engaging in regular physical activity can be a powerful tool in combating mental health issues, including depression. When we exercise, our bodies release endorphins, often referred to as the "feel-good" hormones, which can boost our mood and reduce stress. Moreover, physical activity improves blood circulation and stimulates the production of neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine, which play vital roles in regulating our emotions. Beyond the biological effects, exercise also provides a sense of accomplishment, boosts self-esteem, and fosters social connections through group activities or gym environments (Having a sense of community and a tribe that will encourage, challenge, and guide will only help reinforce your habits and help you stay on track) . Whether it's a brisk walk, a vigorous workout, or a yoga session, incorporating physical exercise into our daily routines can be an empowering step towards enhancing mental well-being and finding resilience in the face of depression.

It's our responsibility to take control of our desires, set ambitious goals, establish smaller milestones, and maintain honesty and realism with ourselves. In my previous post, I discussed the importance of recognizing that transformations don't happen overnight and embracing the long game. While I strive to inspire and motivate others through the experiences and knowledge I share, I must acknowledge the challenging aspects of extreme weight loss. Dealing with scars, stretch marks, excess skin, and the mental aftermath of being significantly overweight poses significant challenges. While some individuals aim to lose just 5 to 20 pounds (and the achievement should not be downplayed, as even smaller weight loss is significant in a healthy weight range), when dealing with 100 pounds or more, the outcome is unlikely to resemble that of a fitness model. There will be personal hurdles to overcome, and while surgical intervention can address some physical effects, decisions regarding such procedures are deeply personal. Ultimately, the real battle lies in battling body dysmorphia and how we perceive ourselves moving forward.

As a soon-to-be parent, our role in shaping our child's future becomes even more significant. By exemplifying health and wellness in our own lives, we have the opportunity to leave a profound impact on our child. Prioritizing our well-being through regular exercise, mindful choices, and nutritious habits not only benefits us but also sets a powerful example for our child. Through our actions, we can empower them to make informed decisions about their own health, paving the way for a brighter and healthier future. Every day I battle myself mentally but through daily work, consistency, and self accountability I ride this body until its last breath so I want to be the ones with my hands on the reigns. To set the example to my son, my partner, my tribe.

-💚Trev, a guy just trying his hardest to be tenacious with a life while helping others fight it too. "Tenacity is the quality displayed by someone who just won't quit — who keeps trying until they reach their goal."

TL;DR: Physical exercise plays a crucial role in promoting mental well-being, combating depression, and improving emotional resilience. Engaging in regular physical activity releases endorphins, boosts mood, and reduces stress. Exercise also improves blood circulation, stimulates neurotransmitter production, and fosters a sense of accomplishment and social connections. In our pursuit of a healthier lifestyle, it's important to set realistic goals, acknowledge the challenges of extreme weight loss, and prioritize mental well-being alongside physical transformation. As soon-to-be parents, we have a unique opportunity to set a powerful example for our child, empowering them to make informed decisions about their own health and paving the way for a brighter and healthier future.