When you’re feeling low and helpless, the world can seem a very dark and cold place. But friends can always be found. Recently an anonymous 1000-miler bravely posted about how they were feeling; the advice, encouragement and arm-round-shoulder friendliness from across the community was absolutely staggering. If you’ve ever felt like that, or helped someone who was, this story is really special.
‘Hi. I used to post on here pretty regularly and walking was a big part of my life. I could do 10 miles a day and often did. I’ve faced some pretty challenging times in both my personal life and with my health this year and I feel I’ve just lost sight of who I am. I’ve put on weight, stopped walking and been miserable. I want to get back to it but I just don’t know where to start.
I now get tired and out of breath easily whereas I used to love steep hills and even mountains. It seems like an impossible dream now. I’m struggling with this horrible fear. I’m scared to walk up hills. I’m scared to go for daily walks. I want to but I don’t know how to. I feel that I’m not that person anymore. Please, if anyone can share a few words of wisdom, please do. I feel so desperately sad.’
One step at a time
‘I was all the things you have said, only my weight was out of control at 26 stone and I was very unhealthy. I got a check-up and after the all-clear, I started small, just a quarter of a mile a day, every day for two weeks. After that I increased it to half a mile per day for two weeks and so on until I built it up to three miles. Then every month I would add half a mile but if I struggled I would drop back to my previous mileage until I was comfortable again. I’m healthier, happier than I’ve been in years and a lot lighter – 13 stone. Be kind to yourself. I found my way was through achieving small victories and setting myself up to succeed rather than fail.’ – Andrew Jones
Happy tears
‘When I feel unhappy I write lists – things that make me happy, activities, music and people that make me happy. Reach out to supportive friends who have a positive impact on you or, better still, arrange to meet up for a walk. Play some uplifting music, better still, go for a walk listening to said music. Think about the places you enjoy walking and make a day of it – maybe a couple of miles and then a sit on a bench with a view with a brew. I also tend to declutter my home which in turn declutters my head so I can fit in more positive thoughts. I’m prone to putting on weight too. Try and make food enjoyable and don’t binge. Enjoy the glass or two of wine, but don’t binge. Cook some delicious healthy food, but don’t binge. With healthier habits with food and exercise you’ll lose weight, feel happier and reduce some of the health problems you’ve been having. One step at a time… and maybe you’ll cry happy tears and feel proud that you’re back on track.’ – Cath Pryce
Mindful steps
‘Start with “mindful moments steps.” Count how many trees you can see as you walk the block, how many types of flowers, what colour is the sky compared to the past seven days. Sing your favourite song aloud or inside your head as you walk. Just for fun, imagine your pockets are full of magic glitter and sprinkle some about for people just like you who may be going through the same fears and who need a miracle, and to leave behind an invisible trail of encouragement. Wear your favourite colour socks and rainbow colours of clothing. Walking isn’t just about the miles, start off with feeling better about yourself, walking in your local area with pockets full of encouragement glitter, a smile on your face, bright socks and your favourite songs running through your head.’ – Wendy Fry
A faithful friend
‘It may sound daft, but pretend you have a little dog that NEEDS to go out every day. Even just to the first lamp-post, or end of the road. Thinking about doing it with a purpose rather than just forcing yourself can be a game changer.’ – Linda Ball
