Get Over Grief with a Fitness Plan

Grief hurts. And if you don't deal with it in a healthy manner the pain can seem unbearable. While most are familiar with grief caused by the death of a loved one, grief also results from social losses. Divorce, sudden unemployment, a sense of security, a home, are all losses that cause grief and bereavement. Like butter improves bread, exercise improves the grieving process. While experts debate how long grief last most agree light and moderate exercise is a healthy way to boost your mental wellness and make grieving a thing of the past.

EXERCISE- A NATURAL EMOTIONAL STABLILIZER
Grief can take the form of denial, anger, confusion, and depression and sometimes it's a combination of a few of these emotions. This is where the value of exercise comes in. Exercise releases endorphins, which is a natural "feel good" chemical. So when you are grieving it makes sense to incorporate an exercise plan to help you cope in a healthy manner. Research has shown that exercise is likely to reduce depression and anxiety and help you better manage the stress of grief.

PICK AN EXERCISE AND MAKE AN APPOINTMENT
If you are just starting the grieving process expect to feel sluggish and a little disoriented but don't let that stop you from exercising. You can start off with lengthy strolls, or shooting basketballs and build up to a brisk jog or a full-fledged marathon, it doesn't matter as long as you are exercising. Choose a daily time you are available and make and appointment. If you have a time of day that is emotionally more difficult than others choose that time to exercise. Once you make an appointment to exercise, program yourself to keep it no matter what. Start off slow and gradually push your self to more lengthy and challenging workouts.

KEEP AN EXERCISE JOURNAL
Keeping a journal is excellent way to review goals and track your progress. Journaling will also help you stay focused and writing is an easy way to express emotions you may find hard to verbalize during the grieving process.

PLAN FOR SETBACKS
It is unavoidable, holidays, birthdays and old photos, will often trigger bereavement so be prepared. You can write about your set backs in your journal and use it to help focus.

BE ACCOUNTABLE
Exercising in a group or with a partner is another way to help you stick with your exercise plan. Often when you are grieving it is much easier to sleep in, take medication and/or do nothing. Knowing that a partner is depending on you will help you reach your fitness goal and keep you on track to feeling better.