Good Morning Skye

I just scrolled up to read one of your other posts again. There was something in there that I really liked and I wanted to read it again. You said " take care hon". I really like being called "hon" the word made me feel special. Thankyou !

So one of your children was doing swimming lessons, was that right? So do you swim with them, or get into the water and help guide them or something?

Yeah you would get exercise with that lifting, so I am guessing you learnt all the correct ways to lift and everything.

Hospitals do have a distinct smell about them. Anyway I hope you are having a good day today.

Many hugs

Shelley xx

Hi there,

I've only just joined BB, and was immediately drawn to this forum.  I set up a lesbian bushwalking group about 20 years ago, as a way to share my love of walking with others.  Its been very successful and is still going. 

Walking has saved me.  At my lowest I know that by going for a good walk I can only feel better.  It releases endorphins and I know I'm doing something good for me!  Its MY time. 

A few tips on walking:  I have a dog so I always go for an hour's walk with him before work, and an evening walk; walk somewhere you like - whether it be near water, in the bush, near where other people walk, walk to a dog off-leash area, walk with an end purpose (coffee, buy the paper etc); walk in shoes that you like and are comfy and supportive (having shoes that you like to put on helps you want to get out, and use them only for walking, nothing else); use trekking poles - they are great to stop impact on your knees, keeps you straighter, helps you up and down stairs/slopes, and actually changes your mindset so you know you are walking with a purpose; make it a routine and let your family know so they'll support you; walk with a friends - I walk with different friends, one on Monday evening, one on Thursday evening, and with a group of around 6 friends on Wednesday evening.  Walking with a friend means you get good quality time with them, it can distract you from hills etc, but also walk for exercise and your mental health - perfect; having a goal for walking helps you get out and be accountable - check out Cancer Council 7 Bridges walk, or Relay for Life, Coastrek, Oxfam Trailwalker, Trek for Timor Blue Mountains etc.  Our bushwalking group enter all these, and it keeps us focused.  Walking with others is always uplifting!

You don't need much gear for walking, you don't have to book it in, you can walk with your dog, with friends, by yourself.  You can only feel better.

Get walking!

Bushscout

 

 

Hey Paul -  The  Super Hero

Running up your steep driveway, well it is impressive!

If it doesn't cause your any distress to .....may I ask what it is that you are frightened of, what is holding you back?

Well anyway I am happy for you, that you are physically healthy and fit. That is way good.....

Many hugs

Shelley xx

 

 

Hey everyone.  I see that many of you have been very motivated with your walking and exercise programs this week in my absence.  That is very impressive!

Bushscout - thanks for all those tips, very helpful.  I usually walk my little dog, just the two of us.  And I was intending to go to the beach for a good long walk today.  However its been raining heavily all day, so we just didnt make it out today.  I am very disappointed, because I really needed a walk today for therapeutic reasons. But it just wasnt to be I guess.  I will aim for Monday now, as the weekend is usually too many people around.  I much prefer to walk alone.

Perhaps some of you had better weather than what I got today.  If so, what have you managed to do?

Sherie xx

Hey bushscout

As you are new, here is a formal welcome to you. You sound like you are really into walking. I have been to the Blue Mountains quite a few times. And I have walked in the bush around Katoomba. I was not very fit at all. I think there were a lot of steps somewhere near the "three sisters". I remember walking up and down those.

Like Sherie mentioned, thank you for your tips... I agree about the wearing of comfy shoes too.

Hugs

Shelley xx

Hugs Sherie

Is it raining now at your place? It isn't here at the moment. Could you just set out now and walk, there is still light left?  It is 7:20pm. I just walked up and down the train station steps today, a few times. It is a quite rural type station, with not many people. Hope you are able to get out on Monday, for your therapeutic walk, that sounds mighty good...

Much love to you

Shelley xx

 

Hi Shelley, I don't know what happened to your post but thank you for thinking of me. How is your walking going? 

I walked this morning. It was a bit warm as I started late but I did it. I managed to do the steps twice which was a challenge. I then walked home the short day. I spent most of my walk thinking about my next project and then thinking about how puffed out I was going up the steps but at least I'm succeeding in my goal so that is positive. My goal for the weekend is to try to relax so I have the energy I need for next week. Unfortunately relaxing is VERY challenging for me. My mind tends to take over and remind me of everything which needs doing. I need to find things to do which keep me busy so my mind is too focused on what I'm doing but allow me the rest /relaxation needed. 

Hey Shelley and welcome Bushscout and thanks too for your ideas

Its not distressing for me to discuss it actually helps me to answer you question Shelley and thankyou for caring...The agoraphobia in its severe form can prevent a person from even their front door as their home is their 'safe place'

I am very fortunate that mine is only with walking too far away from my home and even with the CBT I get a immense feeling of dread if I walk too far away from home...(my safe place) The feeling of 'dread' is overwhelming and the same as just before a major panic attack. I started to hyperventilate approx 3 years ago when this hit me hard. I was only 50 meters from home....but felt I couldnt get back...I was paralysed...that was a huge shock..

The power of distraction worked again when a group of little kids came to me and wanted to pat the 'snow dog' The anxiety and hyperventilation dissipated and I slowly walked home..This illogical episode has stuck in my head and the fear of 'being stuck' too far from home is very alive and well...as in anticipatory anxiety.

I use 'calm acceptance'  and have been training myself to just walk without worrying or catastrophizing  about what happened 5 years ago. I still feel I have achieved so very much since all this started years ago.There are many good people on here that are doing it harder than I am..

I dont hide any of my depression (mild generally) or agoraphobia...I tell anyone...To me its like a temporary physical disability...like a plaster cast on a limb...Approaching the disorder with 'calm acceptance' does help

When possible I find 3AW Nightline very comforting after 10pm....No politics and gentle caring (and funny) radio without any 'heavy' negative callers. Very similar to being with you lovely people.

Hey Elizabeth...your mind does appear 'busy' like many of us here. Great work with your walking and your achievement there...Nice1 :-) It took me many years to get rid of the 'busy' word...There is a alternative phrase I use which has helped called 'Gentle Occupation' instead of 'busy' This can be mastered and is effective.

'Self Help for Your Nerves' by Dr Claire Weeks (may she RIP) is a really effective tool in mastering the art of 'Gentle Occupation' Its written in plain english and is just a small paperback :-) Still in print...It may be of help:-)

Thankyou everyone...Be 'Gentle' to yourselves'

Paul (Woof!)

Thank you Paul for your explanation of your condition. Each of us walk a very different road and understanding others issues helps to keep things in perspective providing we don't compare and then put ourselves down thinking we should be doing better. 

In some ways you are the opposite of me. My depression is more severe but the anxiety is manageable except when triggered due to PTSD. Your home is your safe place which must be really difficult. In contrast at home I see all the things needing to be done and then feel bad if I am not doing them effectively. As soon as I finish one task I immediately notice the next thing to be done. This is really bad when I am really sick, tired or injured as I can't relax and recover properly. Getting out of the house for the day or for a holiday stops me from noticing all the things needing to be done but for the last couple of years this has been problematic because of my husband's condition. The effort of arranging anything, packing and then I need to spend more time assisting my husband because things aren't set up like at home so I come home exhausted.

My challenge ,(apart from regaining my fitness lost while unable to walk due to my broken ankle) is to learn to relax at home as well as finding ways to go out and enjoy myself in a way that suits my current circumstances.

"Gentle occupation does sound like a good term to use to describe keeping occupied in relaxing or rejuvinating activities.

Hey  Elizabeth, I scrolled up to have a look for the other post. No..... I couldn't see it either.  So I am now trying to remember what I said in it.

Yes, it was you about you swimming in the lake, the other day. And walking in the water.....

Anyway that lake sounds heavenly, nice and peaceful. Was it peaceful? We're you able to rest your thoughts a bit ? It does sound calming looking up at the fluffy white clouds. I have seen people walking in water in the ocean baths, near where I live. You have inspired me to try it myself. It probably would be pretty good, like the resistance of the water pushing on your legs as you walk, or something ....

Well yesterday I walked up and down a few times on the train station steps, whilst waiting to give someone a lift from the station. This does make the backs of my legs ache a bit.  But I figured this type of walking would use different muscles in your legs, compared to walking on a somewhat flat surface. The station is in a rural setting and it is very quiet.

Today I have walked up and down other people's driveways, as we visiting about 6 garage sales today. I think I need a variety of different types of walking, I seem to enjoy that more.

Where are the steps you are walking up, near your house or down the street? 

Hugs

Shelley xx

Hi Shelley anne and everyone else on this thread,

I have had a bit of a read of some of these posts. You have all made me feel like I would like to go for a walk right now, so thanks for that.

I will wait until a little later on though as it is about 35 degrees right now and I don't like the heat.

Earlier on in this thread I read some of the reasons why people go for a walk. Some days I have totally different reasons. One day I might be really cranky and it helps to reduce my frustrations. Another day I might have eaten too many chocolate biscuits and hope a walk will help negate that! Ha. Ha.

Some days I purposely drive to the beach for a walk or to a park for some peace and a chance to just unwind and enjoy the scenery.

Now and then I take a garbage bag with me and collect the junk that is along the roadways near our home.

So I have many different reasons for going walking.

I will put my walking shoes near the door and try to encourage myself to go out later.

Cheers all from Topsy.

Welcome Topsey Hope you enjoy your walk when it cools down. You are right there are many reasons for walking but what ever the reason it helps mentally & physically.

Shelley The lake is lovely and peaceful. While swimming you are forced to concentrate on your breathing and where you are going in a way you don't need to while walking so it takes your mind off everything. I found lying on my back doing backstroke the water supported my body so it felt so relaxing I wanted to close my eyes and sleep. Of course I didn't. I don't know why I have such a hard time making myself go when it is so pleasant. 

The steps are about a km from home and form a walkway between two roads. We live on a relatively flat area at the bottom of a hill. This means I get to cool off walking down hill & on the flat to return home which is good.

Glad you were able to incorporate some walking into your busy day. Walking up & down the railway stairs sounds like a good way to use your time. Walking up steps does make legs & knees ache. Well done. I did a short walk this afternoon with my gradkids to the park. It was a bit warm to really enjoy it

Hello topsy turvy

Here is a welcome hug for you, if you would like one! I am glad you may have been inspired to get out your walking shoes, and leave them near the front door. Way good....... So did you end up going walking or something? I can relate the chocolate biscuits thing as well. For me it is plain Cadbury chocolate. Oh yum... 

Shelley xx

Hey guys, 

Went for a walk to a football game, it was good, if crowded. 

It was when I sat and thought that things went silly! 

But I enjoyed the walk! 

Skye

Hi Shelley,

Sorry I didnt respond to your post from 7.20pm last night (Fri).  I didnt get it until tonight.  It rained here all day yesterday and last night.  Finally stopped mid morning today.  So its been fine all afternoon now.  I even got to do a little bit of gardening.  No walking today though.  Very wet underfoot after 100mms rain in 2 days.

So I am still planning on going for a good long walk on Monday.

Hi topsy turvy.  Good to see you joining in with the walking group.

Sherie xx

 

Hello Skye

Three cheers for Skye who walked to the football game!

Hugs

Shelley xx

You make me smile 😘

Hi Skye Glad you enjoyed your walk to the football. Sherie. Hope things dry up a bit so you can walk again in comfort. Pity they can't spread the rain more evenly round this country. You either have too much or not enough.!!! Only managed a short walk to a park with the grandkids. It was a bit hot to enjoy. The older one wasn't in a good mood as his cousin didn't turn up as planned. Our family get together fizzled badly. One son and one daughter had already said they couldn't come & then my daughter cancelled as twon of her children were sick and one ended up in hospital after she took him to the GP. At least they know what is wrong now and can can start treating him. My 19mth old grandson was funny to watch. He was drilling the wall and then hammering after like his dad does. Other kids cuddle teddy He cuddles his toy drills, a jigsaw (for cutting metal or wood not a puzzle) and his hammer when he goes to bed. He likes wearing earmuffs while he watches his dad use power tools. I will get back on track with walking tomorrow

 Hugs to all!

 Came across this tonight.........

"Walking can even help your mood. A number of studies have found that it’s as effective as drugs for decreasing depression in some people. It can help relieve everyday stresses, too. Tension starts to ease as the road stretches out in front of you. Mood-elevating endorphin levels increase. Many people find that walking helps clear the mind, too—you may even find the solution to a problem that’s been bugging you." - Harvard Medical School

Let's keep walking.........

Shelley xx

 

Hello everyone

 Hey Paul !Thanks for sharing about what it is like for you living with the agoraphobia. I am sorry that you have this in your life. You know how you mentioned that distraction helped you, you know with the children wanting to pat your dog. Why can't you like use distraction now, so like listen to music on an ipod or mobile phone or something, or even calming nature sounds. You could simply tune out from other thoughts and feelings whilst you are walking. You probably have already thought of that though. But I am just throwing it out there anyway.....

Hugs to you, and I hope you have a good day!

Hey Elizabeth, I love it when little ones copy their mum or their dad in a good way. It is so...cute. Your grandson sounds adorable. He must really like his hammer if he takes it to bed. It is good you went for a short walk to the park. Even better when you can share loving times with family. Is your other grandchild OK? Hope you enjoy your walk tomorrow Elizabeth.

Have a good walk on Monday Sherie. Please don't feel any pressure to respond to this post Sherie. You are free. Take care my friend. Many hugs.

Hey Skye, I am truly glad you smiled.

Hugs to all

Shell xx

I recently picked up a dog from a rescue shelter as well as started a new casual job as a waiter so I've been walking a heap more than I was previously and I feel much better for it. Especially walking my dog. It helps me clear my mind and streamline my thoughts. I was already quite active in the gym but that was more of a testosterone filled intense workout than walking at a leisurely pace. Much different.

Hi Shelley,

I am not long back from an hour long walk with Holly.  I had intended going out to the beach, but there were showers around this morning mainly along the coast.  So I ended up going out to the Showground where I work, and took a good walk around there.  Holly loved it because she is able to be off leash and there are so many things for her to check out and smell.  Saw a couple of other dogs which she got all excited about.  She is good with other dogs though, so no problems there.  

So both she and I are now feeling tired, but feel as though we have accomplished something.  It was also useful for my work as I have wanted to walk the perimeter of the grounds to properly check out the grounds, buildings, stables, camping sites, toilet blocks, etc that we have there.  I havent had the time to do a recce when I am there for work.  

My walk therefore served several purposes today.  It was a good day for a walk too.  Not too hot, a slight breeze and overcast.  Had a very brief shower of light rain, but not enough to stop walking.

PatT - yes I also find that walking the dog gives me the opportunity to help clear the mind a little, as well as to work off pent up frustrations.  Mind you I am no 'power walker' or anything like that.  I walk pretty casually, probably more aptly described as a 'stroll'.   ( - :    I have an injury which prevents anything too strenuous.

Sherie xx

Hi Pat T Glad you enjoyed your work & found it helpful.

Sherie Sounds like your walk ticked all the boxes Useful for work, good for you & the dog and a decent length.

I have had a really busy day so haven't had time to walk. Will get back on track soon I hope.

Hey Shelley, how are you? Thank you for thinking of me, I believe you just might be one of the kindest and most wonderful people I know! 

Elizabeth, my son is much like your grandson, he loves tools and copies his daddy all the time! His favourite thing is mowers though! 

Sherie, your walk sounds lovely! What kind of dog is Holly, I have a dog called Lara, who is a staffy, she is 11 and is my first baby, she still sleeps at the foot of my bed every night! 

Pat, I think next time I buy a dog I would like to get a rescue dog too, what is your puppy's name! 

I walked around the shops today and did lots of climbing ladders and lifting at work today! 

Love skye

Hey Shelley and my heartfelt thanks to your response :-)

I do keep mentioning the 'power of distraction' and being 'Gentle to Yourself' on here a lot. These coping mechanisms helped me so very much and allowed me to be nearly 'free' from anxiety for 20 years...It works.

The Agoraphobia started after my recovery from anxiety.....I had 2 good GP's at the time and they both helped so much (including a really good psychologist) and it (agoraphobia...fear of being too far away from a safe place) started. I do accept the new feelings and 'float' with them (not to fight...that only exacerbates the anxiety) but its not really working very well....I can handle all of the situations that used to be major issues but now this is new and I am not trying to fight it.

I read on BB that Agoraphobia is 'the fear of leaving your house'...It isnt. It is more accurately described as a 'fear of being too far away from one's safe place'....

Anyhoo Shell...I just wanted to thank you kindly for sincerely caring. Also I have not responded to anyone else's posts on this page...and for that I apologize....Thats one of the biggest reasons I submit responses in single lines or in point form because anybody with a 'tired mind' has difficulty reading paragraphs due to the 'Lack of Ability to Concentrate'

This agoraphobia is a 'gift' after many years of (not fighting) accepting and 'truly' accepting daily anxiety attacks which have dissipated to a very small level through my coping mechanisms. I have very little to complain about.

Still Walking :-)

Thankyou so much everyone

Paul

Woof!

 

 

Hi Paul, I just wanted to tell you how much you inspire me to continue on my journey and know I can beat the anxiety! It's a tricky thing isn't it, anxiety in all its form! 

Still I am trying not to fight it and just float through it! 

You just truly inspire me! 

Hugs to all

I left my walk to quite late today. I set out from our place at about 11pm. It is now 12 40 am. My son walked with me tonight, since it was so late again. He is such a caring and protective person. Which I am very grateful for...Anyway , whilst carrying a torch in one of my hands, we walked. It was pretty dark, with a few clouds. I kept looking up at the night sky, noticing the stars. I think we were talking a bit loud, because the neighbours dogs started barking at us. Glad to have the light of the torch, in case of nasty potholes in the road.... It was great to get out to walk, and it was much cooler then anyway...... 

With much love to all.

Shell xx

Thank you Paul for your explanation of you condition. You have done well to get where you are. 

I was very tired this morning but decided to do a short walk to 'wake up'so I could function. Still tired but feeling a bit better. Tomorrow I plan to sleep in and try to recover. My husband has nothing on so hopefully this will work. I have to get up when he does to help him. By the end of the walk I was able to enjoy the smell of the roses and sight of some lovely flowers.

Hello Skye, just quickly answering your question of me before I head off to work.

Holly (as in profile picture) is a mini foxie crossed with chihuaha.  Only a little girl of 4.5kgs, but a truly lovable little bundle of energy.  She turned 7yo on Christmas Day.  And like your dog, she sleeps on our bed.

Must go, busy day ahead of me.

Hi to all the other 'walkers'.  Have a great day.

Sherie xx

Hello PatT

So what workouts do you do at the gym, are you doing weights or running on the treadmill? I have thought about joining a gym before, but I am unsure to whether I would like it or not. So what is the name of your new dog? And I have studied your profile picture before, because I find it very unusual. What is with the "dog head" and the "rabbit head", is it for a play? And since it seems you are pretty physically active already, have you noticed more improvements in your mental health at all?

Hugs

Shelley xx