I was pretty familiar with ways to boost energy. Some of my bad habits included a jump-start morning coffee, a mid-afternoon sugary pick-me-up treat, and a 5:00 meltdown Diet Coke. I knew these habits were not good for me and I wanted something natural and good for my body. I found the secret.
When you are feeling tired or depressed, you may not think immediately about going to the gym but maybe you should. Exercise releases endorphins, which have been called “natural pain relievers.” Even on days when I just don’t feel like doing anything, there is a Zumba class that I know will boost my mood.
I was finishing out a pretty hectic week. I was at an extremely busy time in my life and dealing with a stressful, personal situation. I was tired and feeling down. I needed something to break me out of my gloomy mood. I didn’t feel like leaving the house, let alone going to the gym but I believed that the exercise would help.
I walked into my Zumba class that day with dry and tired eyes, a slow pace, and an emotionless face. After one hour of aerobic activity through dance, I left a different person. Even as our instructor greeted us and music began to play, I could feel a weight lifting from my shoulders. I started to shimmy with the songs and a felt myself smiling. Our instructor, Natalie, was a graceful leader and although I looked nothing like she did doing the dance moves, I was having a blast. After following her lead, I was spinning, jumping, and doing moves like “the hammer,” “the chainsaw” and “tornado.” It was carefree, fun and energizing. I was sweating, breathing hard and feeling more confident with every Latin move. As my body warmed up and my muscles loosened, I felt strong and accomplished. The sadness was fading away.
We clapped and thanked our instructor when the class was over. We were dancers. Not all good dancers (at least in my case), but nevertheless, we were happy. I know that fitness and aerobic instructors realize that their job enables people to be healthier but I wonder if my Zumba teacher knew just how much her class helped me on that morning. I drove to the location that was 20 minutes from my house instead of five because of her Zumba class. It is that good.
Sometimes all we need is a boost to lift our spirits and improve our mood and I would rather it be a natural, healthy one. If you want a great pick-me up, and if you live in the Phoenix, Ariz. area, go to Mountainside Fitness at their Ocotillo, Ariz. location and try the Zumba class on Monday and Thursday mornings with Natalie. You may just see me there!