Being Mindful of The Present
Today we have a guest post from the incredible Eric Lynn aka Eric_EZRunner_L so a special thanks and shoutout to him. This is a great read so make sure to take time to read it and enjoy it!
Embracing the Peloton community was a life-changing decision for my wife and me in 2021. We took the plunge and purchased our Bike Plus, and from that moment, every experience has been truly enjoyable! The diverse content, the awesome community, and the interaction with technology – all passions in my life – have made it an incredible journey. While the physical benefits are numerous, the most significant game changer for me has been the profound connection it has forged with my mind. But before I delve into that, let's explore how I transformed my entire outlook on exercise.
My journey back to fitness began in 2011. At the time, I was not unhealthy; I ate well and had just become a father to my son, Jonah, who was only a month old. Exhausted yet loving my new role, I felt a little under the weather one day. That night, a unique reaction to a virus landed me in the hospital with a tightness in my chest and heart. Thankfully, it wasn't serious, but it made me realize the paramount importance of maintaining good exercise habits. I had spent many years playing basketball, but as time went on, getting to the gym became harder, and pickup games lacked the passion I craved. Then, in 2012, with my wife's encouragement, I decided to sign up for my first 5k race – a momentous game changer! From there, I progressed from 5k's to marathons, finding the passion and self-driven competition that kept me moving forward. Peloton opened up a whole new world of strength, cycling, and other classes, which not only challenged me but also significantly improved my overall movement and even my running!
In 2021, the Covid-19 pandemic presented both challenges and opportunities for self-discovery. Joining the Peloton community was just one aspect of my journey. The pandemic served as a stark reminder of life's fragility and the inequalities that exist among us. It was a shared event that impacted all of us in various ways. Personally, it highlighted the importance of mental health, which became as significant to me as my physical improvements in strength and running. In response to the constant work-from-home demands, I found it challenging to maintain calm and get a good night's sleep. That's when I decided to tap into the world of meditation, enrolling in a sleep meditation program. The relief it brought to my mind was immense, allowing me to embrace the present moment and live more mindfully. I began exploring daily meditation expanding to writing in journals, and cannot thank the opportunities the Peloton community provides for meditation and yoga. These small 10 to 15 minute breaks every day really allow me to make the most of life and remain neutral no matter what.
My journey with Peloton and the Covid-19 pandemic has led me to discover the powerful connection between physical and mental well-being. From transforming my mindset about exercise to finding solace in meditation, I've learned to cherish the present and live life to the fullest.