My New Favorite Thing

Anyone that knows me knows I am very fickle when it comes to activities, as I enjoy so many different things. I like to work in theater, dance, play the flute, read, play my Nintendo, watch movies, do yoga, etc.

Well, for the last 5 months, I've stuck to ONE activity that gives me energy, helps me run faster, and keeps me in shape - swimming!

When I was a wee little Ali, I was terrified of the water. I stayed in the "Whales" beginning swimming class for years because I couldn't go in headfirst. I literally cried and begged my instructor not to take me underwater, which of course she did. Eventually I grew to love it, but just as a recreational thing to do.

However, I'm fortunate enough to have a nice indoor pool here on base in Iraq. My very first day here, I was exhausted, jet lagged, hungry, I had been yelled at for missing a meeting that I didn't know was taking place, I had lost my thumb drive with all my important files, and I was doing the 'bag drag' taking my bags from one place to another looking for a home. That night, all I wanted to do was crash, but I decided to find the pool instead. I swam five laps, taking long breaks between each one - you could say I was out of shape.

But, I kept at it, and last night I swam 30 laps freestyle. Thanks to my handy dandy waterproof MP3 player that my boyfriend got me for my birthday, I can listen to my own tunes while I swim. I've found that doing this helps me sleep better, makes me feel more fit, and has helped me lose about 8 pounds. I also run faster, due to the help swimming has given my cardio.

Anyway, a rather dull posting, but I was pretty proud of my 30 lap night, and I'm amazed at how much happiness swimming has given me. I encourage all of you stuck in a workout rut to give swimming a try - or try something different in general. Your body will thank you.