Feeling Down? Get Your Hands Around a Barbell!
“J Bird, if I lived closer to you I’d thump you in your skull right now” - Coach Stan
… these are the infamous words of my good friend, and honestly (over 6 years later) life saver, Stan Norgalis - author of The Recovery Playbook. On October 4th of 2017, almost 1 year before my 40th birthday, I called Stan and told him I was entering the “J Bird Blues Season”. Really what I was talking about was the seasonal depression that I couldn’t shake that usually started around the fall time change.
I remember Stan was incredibly encouraging, asked me how far the closest CrossFit gym was, but uttered those infamous words when I sheepishly told him the closest gym was .4 miles away. YIKES. He asked me to give him 90 days. No matter what, don’t quit for 90 days and then let’s revisit.
90 days is now March 19, 2024 and we’re still going.
And - guess what? Seasonal depression has never appeared again. It’s almost like lifting weights and breaking a sweat is the most underrated antidepressant on the planet.
True story.
In today's fast-paced society, where stress and anxiety often loom large, finding effective ways to manage mental health challenges like depression is crucial. Incorporating regular exercise (no… it doesn’t have to be CrossFit :) into your routine can be a powerful ally in the fight against depression.
Exercise has long been recognized for its mood-boosting benefits. When you work out, your brain releases endorphins, neurotransmitters that act as natural mood lifters, promoting feelings of happiness and well-being. Additionally, exercise reduces levels of stress hormones like cortisol (bonus cortisol is why you are having a hard time losing that stubborn belly fat) and increases the production of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), which plays a key role in regulating mood.
Engaging in physical activity also provides a much-needed distraction from negative thoughts and rumination, helping to break the cycle of depressive thinking patterns. Whether it's going for a brisk walk or ruck, slinging some steel, or practicing yoga, finding an activity that you enjoy and can sustainably incorporate into your lifestyle is key.
Moreover, exercise offers a sense of accomplishment and empowerment, boosting self-esteem and confidence—a valuable antidote to the feelings of helplessness often associated with depression.
While starting an exercise routine may feel daunting, remember that every step, no matter how small, counts towards improving your mood. In the words of my other good friend, Greg Ford (beast by the way) - “You’re gonna be sore tomorrow, just show back up”. I remember those words and this mantra still, and continue to show up. Could you break the cycle and do something hard for 90 days? Is your mental health worth it? Then get your damn hands around a barbell.
I mentioned earlier Stans book, The Recovery Playbook . Stan has always had a heart for coaching (he was a former basketball coach) and has translated his passion into helping MANY athletes, whether through his book, coaching CrossFit in New York, or just thumping skulls when they need it. He was a huge encouragement when I was writing I Got Tired of Feeling Like Sh*t, and I’m incredibly proud to call him a friend, coach, and mentor.
So, what do you say? Do you suffer from the blues with no plan in place? What do you have to lose over 90 days?(besides maybe a little weight) - I can assure you that you have everything to gain.
