Before my health problems started to become more severe, I worked out at the gym for about 6 to 8 hours a week and weighed over 150 lbs. Gradually from there I've lost weight all the way down to about 130lbs or so. I hate to weigh myself now! I know, some people out there wish they had my weight problems! Because lifting weights, along with many other activities triggers pain attacks, I find it difficult to exercise. Recently however I've discovered a simple trick that is starting to renew my confidence, even if it's only a wee bit. Instead of lifting heavy weights, I've chosen to work with extremely light hand weights, all the way down to about 2.5 lbs per hand. I do simple exercises to strengthen my upper back and shoulders, and I do short sets of push ups, just 5 repetitions at a time. I don't allow myself to exercise long enough to start feeling that familiar tingle of pain that gets out of control quickly. It's not going to build huge muscles, but it does allow me to move my body and releases some endorphins that perk my spirits up. I think having a chronic illness like mine has made me aware of the aspect of my personality that is stubborn, proud, and even vain. I've had to tone down my ambitions and to work within the confines of what is possible. However, I've learned that it's not an all or nothing game. Just because I can't work out hard with hundreds of pounds of weights doesn't mean I can't work out at all. It's all about changing one's perspective and working within one's capabilities. I am now becoming more optimistic and a little bit more lighthearted. Wish me luck!
