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There are so many ways to practice mental fitness. Here are some real-life stories.

I wake up each day and feel grateful to have another lovely day. Whenever things get rough, I remember TTSP (this too shall pass) & find opportunity to help someone. --- AG

I get up at 5:15 am and go swimming with my daughter from 6 am to 7 am in the 50 meter pool. Swimming in the early part of the day gets me going for the rest of the day. Motivation to go out to appointments and work isn't a problem. My whole day goes smoother, and my ability to think through things has increased dramatically. It's a great way to set up my day. --- Heather

On my very stressful and hard to handle days I just sit back, take a few deep breaths and watch my children play and laugh without a care in the world. I let them be my example, so I get on the floor and play with them and have some childish fun and quality time with my kids. --- Liz

I joined the local women's hockey league that just started in my community. Forty women learning how to play hockey and some haven't skated in ten years! Joining a women's team keeps me active playing three times weekly, keeps me socially connected to my friends and keeps my body in shape (which makes me feel great in those special jeans). Plus those awesome women's hockey tournments are like nothing else you could experience! --- Hockey Woman

I am very busy in the community. As a student, I don't have a lot of time to spare. I like to spend time with my dog and children, take long walks through the river valley system and make certain to go to the gym at least 3 times a week. I love to paint and that is part of my downtime on the weekend. When I am stressed, nothing beats long bubble baths and a hot cup of tea. I like to curl up with a good book and drift into a little afternoon nap. It gives me a lift like nothing else. Once a month, I go for a deep muscle massage. Works like a charm.
--- Lina

I do a 4 day work week from Monday to Thursday 8A.M. to 2:30P.M. After my work day, I make it a habit to stop at my health club and do a 1 hour workout involving cardio. and endurance wt. training--light wts. and more reps. My workout usually helps me relax and rids me of any tension and headaches, and clears my mind. I spend leisure time listening to favourite music--the oldies, V.S.O. concerts. I also invest time reading good books especially the contemporary ones. I practise speed reading and also enjoy the great outdoors--wherever I can find some sunshine and the ocean. --- Angie

When my moods get low I walk my two dogs in the beautiful parks near my home. Watching the way they run and play and enjoy themselves makes me feel better. I also enjoy being in nature and the exercise and fresh air does wonders for me as well. --- Lynn

Recently I was diagnosed with ADHD, Non-Verbal Disability, anxiety and stress. I an not allowed to work so I have been going to the "Y" and doing Pilates, Yoga, Step and Body Design and even Spinning. The instructors’ noticed a difference in my body and attitude while doctors saw no improvement. I feel like a million dollars and that is what counts. --- Barb

I have suffered from chronic pain related to a car accident since '95, with subsequent depression. About 2 years ago I began a journey which led me to a combination of fitness (I work with a trainer at least 3 times per week now, and include walking, yoga, and swimming into a lifestyle change). I have also completely changed my diet and I practice yoga daily. I still have difficulties with depression and chronic pain, however there is more balance in my life now. --- Jan

Give thanks everyday for your health. Make time to do the things that you enjoy doing (walking, exercising, traveling to a favourite location- park or city). Make a commitment to looking after yourself – only you can do this!

I have suffered at times from anxiety and phobias. I have found over the years that a two-pronged approach works best: meditation and no caffeine. One calms the body, the other the mind. Meditation has helped me develop perspective, have realistic expectations of others, and develop strategies to reduce stress. My quality of life would be sharply reduced without my daily meditation practice. --- Cynthia

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