I'm a dog owner, (like cats too).  My vet tells me when you pet, play, walk your dog, that something occurs.  When they are paid attention, endorphins (a good hormonal chemical) is released.  Once released, they can't help but feel better. 

Another thing I read in ODAT May3rd, was a story of a woman's crisis.  During her crisis, she continue to do the things she would normally do if the crisis hadn't occurred. 

Yesterday I had a very bad day, just some very low moments.  Not as bad as the lady in the ODAT book.  But I was feeling sooooo low.  I thought of the two above things.  First I let myself cry, then I made myself run my usual 4 miles. 

The vet was right, after I did feel better.  The problems are still there, but not as hopeless, I could feel the endorphins.  I couldn't feel as bad as before, even if I wanted to.

So pay attention to your mind by reading the daily books, it's a kinda mind exercise.   Also, pay attention to yourselves, physically.  If you can't run,.....walk,  or dance.  That's your physical exercise.  Unfortuneately you have to do BOTH every day!  The effects only work for the day, but the effects of doing both get you thru the day.  You'll be in better shape body & mind for doing it!    

I made it thru my night, & now have a new day to look forward to.             

Hi Babs

i agree with you.

Physical exerv=cise was my outlet for my pain last year before I found alanon.

It is still an every day priority.

i bought a mountain bike last February for basic transoptation.

day 1 I could not even ride a mile.

Now I can ride for hours. I let my brain go on hold and just enjoy the woods and the free time.

The endorphins feel good. Dogs need exercise every day and so do we....

Dance, sing, arts . . .

I've been so busy I haven't checked the message boards in quite some time.  I have to respond in a visceral way.

I've been volunteering in my children's Sunday School class for the last several weeks and am struck by the action oriented themes.  Let's dance, sing and act in praising our HP's way for us.  Not in a "take over the body" kind of way.  Just in a fun, get moving kind of way.

I relate it to Alanon totally.  Get into action.  Get out of your head and get moving.  Stop thinking, just do what your HP means for you to do.  For me, it's volunteering, and doing what I can to help others.

As part of my Alanon program, I get into action to help others.  It's amazing how WONDERFUL I feel.  Even in times of dispair, I feel absolutely wonderful to help others.

When you're ready, reach out and help/volunteer.  This board is great for venting but there's a time to reach outside of ourselves and actually start liviing.

Peace,

J

I have 2 dogs so I should be able to get this double right.....

THanks for the reminder!!!