just jump in!

This summer, when we were in Nova Scotia, I realized how important it is for me to be around water. I grew up in a part of Canada that is surrounded by water. I learned to swim in the ocean. I learned to skate on a pond. And I learned to paddle a canoe on a lake. All within walking distance of my childhood home. And at the end of our street was an oceanside park where I would go and look out to sea whenever I was stressed-out. When my husband and I visit our hometown province, we now stay at my in-laws' cottage on a beautiful lake in the centre of the province - and our kids think of it as their second home. This summer my mother-in-law started calling my daughter a mermaid cause she was constantly in the water, which is what I was like as a kid. And of course my first thought was, "I 'need' the mermaid charm!" (even though people think it looks like the mermaid from Starbucks). But first I would "need" to figure out a way to "earn" it. I remembered how much I enjoyed swimming in the lake too, so I decided I needed to be in the water more - it's therapeutic for me.

 

So I decided to just jump in and give it a try! I set myself a goal for September, to try one different water fitness activity every week for four weeks. The first one was aqua yoga which was A M A Z I N G! It was in a small pool with warm water and dim lights - we even did the corpse pose at the end, lying on pool noodles. Then I tried a Friday morning class, where I was the only person under 60, but it was a great workout, without too much impact, and I discovered that I love stretching in the water. I tried a weekend TMC (Total Muscle Conditioning) class which was very tough; but I could work at my own pace. And the best part is that nobody except the intructor can see what you are - or are NOT - doing under water. And finally today I tried a Wednesday morning class and discovered what you do with those foam "dumbells" - and how challenging they could be! I think I will be feeling the effects in my arms tomorrow! So, mission accomplished! Gradually trying just one new activity a week, without expecting to go three days a week right off the bat, made it feel manageable. And, as always, earning a Pandora charm was a good motvation. Now I plan to continue doing the Wed and Fri morning classes, as well as the Sunday afternoon aquayoga. I even have some friends who will join me, which REALLY helps with exercise adhernce. Next up is an eight-week challenge to earn some faceted muranos and a few more charms for my "Gifs from the Sea" bracelet. Anyone care to join me?