Showing Up for Myself: How Working Out Changed My Mental Health

I was in and out of the gym for years always putting it off since it just wasn't really a priority for me. I'd tell myself I was too busy, too tired, that I'd start again "next week." But when I finally got consistent, I realized that working out wasn’t just about changing my look. It began to change how I felt.

Going to the gym was initially another obligation. But as time went on it became something I looked forward to. It provided me with a routine, and having that routine helped me to feel more in control of my life. Even when I was stressed, anxious, or overwhelmed, I found time to release it at the gym.

Working out also cleared my head. When I was lifting or running or just moving my body, I wasn’t thinking about all the things that were bothering me. For that hour I could think of me. It was a break from school, pressure, and all the things that can build up in a day.

I’ve also learned that progress is a long process. You don’t get results in the gym overnight. You have to keep showing up even when you don’t want to. That gave me discipline and patience. It made me think of mental health being the same. You don’t get better or feel better all at once, but small steps can make a big difference.

Working out didn't solve all my problems, but it gave me a better way to handle them. It made me feel stronger, both physically and mentally. It provided a healthy outlet, giving me confidence and structure when I needed it.

For those of us who are struggling with our mental health, working out doesn’t have to mean going to the gym every day or lifting heavy weights. It could be walking, swimming, playing a sport, stretching or anything that gets the blood pumping. The secret is to begin slowly and remain consistent.

Looking back, I wish I had made it a priority earlier. Working out became more than exercise for me. It became a way to take care of myself.

-Rami Abdul Azim, Founder