Minna's Battle Log

[Minna]

Now that I've nearly finished my first challenge, it's time to start a battle log. 

 

A bit of background: I'm a 42-year-old who has dealt with depression for most of my life. The dozens of medications I've tried over the years have never really helped, so I've come to the conclusion that pharmaceuticals may not help me. I've been in therapy most of that time, and have only now found someone who might really be able to help me muck things out.

 

My challenge focused on improving my mental health through decreasing my isolation, increasing exercise, and improving my nutrition. From here on out, I'm going to build on those foundations. I saw a real improvement in my physical health over these last six weeks, if not my mental health - but after being depressed for 33 years, I can't expect miracles. I need to be patient. I consider it a miracle that I've found a community like this one to help me be accountable and to feel less alone in my quest.

 

I'm a writer, I like archery, I play World of Warcraft (Earthen Ring FTW! I'm in the AIE guild on the Horde side, and have a number of Alliance characters as well), and I have a young daughter and husband here in Vermont. I spend hours every day listening to audiobooks and podcasts. I am always looking for new recommendations, so let me know what you love!

 

Podcasts I can't live without: 

• The Morning Stream (and most other Frogpants shows, incl. The Instance)
• Sword & Laser
• TED Radio Hour
• 99% Invisible

Favorite recent books: 

• Ready Player One
• Redshirts
• Traveling in Space
• The Outlander series
• Code Name Verity/Rose Under Fire

 

Exercise goals

• To walk farther and faster than before (I do about 18 miles a week in good weather)
• To rehabilitate my bad knee and stick with the PT I keep forgetting to do
• To continue the yoga I've come to love

Nutrition goals

• Now that I've completed the draconian elimination diet I started in September, I'm easing back in with reintroducing one food at a time to see if I react to anything. I don't miss sugar or processed foods, so I want to stay in that mode and continue to eat healthy.
• I need to get my vitamins back in balance and restore health to my gut, which I'm doing through supplements and probiotics. I need to be disciplined and stick with it.

Life goals

• I've almost completely isolated myself, except for being with my family. I need to reconnect with old friends and make a concerted effort to make new ones.
• I need to be able to work again.

[Toxophilite]

You've done great so far, considering the ongoing trouble you've had. Keep on making those small improvements and you'll be working again in no time

 

Hey I didn't know you do archery too, that's awesome.

[Minna]

Yep, I started with my seven-year-old! It didn't stick with her (I think because her bow is terrible) but I love it. It's going to be a challenge to keep it up in the winter!

[Randa Rooskie]

I've know people who tried setting up an indoor archery range in their home... I don't recommend it!

 

It's been great following you on this first challenge.  I'm glad to hear that you're enjoying the yoga, even though you were a little nervous about it at first.  You've done a great job between that and the crazy elimination diet that you kept on for so long!  

 

Don't forget to give yourself an 'A' every day!

[She-Hulk]

I pretty much just looked at your booklist and threw it on my 'to read' list. =P

 

I've subbed, of course. Now, I'm batty and forgetful so I have to keep my meds in one of those pill boxes *shrug* It works for me at least.

You could also try putting a fun alarm on your phone to remind you to take them.

[Minna]

Yep, I have a big ol' pillbox just like my grandmother. And that's just for the non-vitamin meds!

Started the alarm today to remind myself to drink water, and have already drunk twice what I do on an average day!

[Randa Rooskie]

Howdy, Mrs. Minna!  How are you doing?  Still yoga-ing?  Busy reading?