Almost 3 years ago, I
was struggling with depression, obesity, hormonal issues, and just plain
feeling stuck and isolated. I was trying, one step at a time to reconnect with
friends and get out more.
My friend dragged me
into a Zumba class, telling me I would love this talented and hilarious
instructor. She was right; once a week became twice, 3 times, 4. At the end of
that year, I had a strong understanding of the moves, some fun new friends, and
the beginning of a personal relationship with that quirky, wonderful instructor.
The second year, I had
the confidence and support from that wonderful Zumba community to commit to a
fitness and weight loss program. I lost 70 pounds, dancing up to 12 times a
week (which I don't necessarily recommend, but I was trying to force my
metabolism back to life). As the pounds dropped away, I was able to find other
kinds of support at the gym to enhance my efforts, hiring a personal trainer to
do weight training and working on more effective ways to eat. (I also cared
enough to see a doctor for the other issues, not just letting things go.) I
ventured out to some non-class Zumba events, and began following my original
instructor in earnest at the dance studio he manages. By the end of the year I
had scheduled my B1 training and was really on my way.
Now it is close to the
end of year 3 since getting started. My health and weight are stable and I feel
better at 53 than I did at 40. I have my own class at the dance studio and sub
regularly, with new job prospects coming my way. More importantly, I am renewed
by my close relationships with my original instructor and others who mentor and
support me. I have a whole new outlook. Obviously, my life is not perfect, but
I am so grateful for everything that Zumba, and the dynamic people who make up
this community, has brought me.
When
I asked Mary what advice she would give someone who thinks they can’t get
started, she said:
The typical reaction I
get from people is "Well, I don't have time for all that." People can
be very defensive, even when they are the ones who asked me about the subject,
and I make a point of emphasizing that each journey is unique. I think the most
uncomfortable thing people must do when they are in that starting place and
think they can't do it is to look in the mirror and decide (because it is a
choice, whether we want to admit it or not) to love yourself enough to give
yourself the gift of commitment. After that, everything else will be an answer
to the question, "Can I?"
Zumba works especially
well for this because the overall philosophy is welcoming (it's a party!) and
nonjudgmental. So, you must love yourself before you can give yourself
permission to put yourself first, whether it is going just once or twice a week
to a Zumba class, or a nice walk every morning, or yoga. After that, I would
add--baby steps, and surround yourself with positive people. I didn't lose any
weight at all for a year; I was busy having fun with my new passion!
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