Happy 2016! Its a time for new goals (or "resolutions"- as some people say). I prefer the idea of goals. I make lists, typically a page or two.... of goals for the year, in a to-do list format... crossing off things I've accomplished as I go. This works for me, but I know everyone has their own system.  (if you are looking for a new system, I'd love to help you find what will work best for you). I make to-do lists a lot. I like the feeling of accomplishment when crossing something off- and tackling the final un-checked items always feels more manageable when everything else is already checked off. 

A new year.... a time for new ventures and new adventures (and for a new blog). I'm quite hopeful this blog will both be a venture AND an adventure, and I'm looking forward to the journey. 

As a clinical social worker, psychotherapist AND as a runner.... I am looking forward to exploring the many overlaps that I see in understanding yourself and your mind better, and the lessons learned and challenges faced as a runner*. 

Some topics that will be addressed:

• goal setting- where to start and how to make the progress you want
• mental health benefits to running- battling depression or anxiety with running
• getting started and/or coming back (after injury, pregnancy, etc)
• avoiding burnout and staying present
• being a "runner"- coming to terms with this label, accepting/finding a running community
• getting comfortable WITH the uncomfortable- an important key for achieving progress (in running, in life....)
• challenging our doubts and negative self-talk, using running to improve self esteem 

I will also be developing mental health training plans (to go along with your 8 week or 12 week half-marathon & marathon training plans), exploring and practicing how to be mentally strong for your next big race. 

.....and if you cannot wait for the blog posts to roll in (hopefully, weekly.... that's the plan), I offer tailored psychotherapy and mental health coaching for runners. Please feel free to contact me at any time to set up an individual session.

One step at a time.... quite literally. That's all it takes :)

*When I say, "runner"-this can incorporate lots of different things & we'll get into this later. You might not see yourself as a runner, just yet. It took me a few years to accept this label for myself, so I understand that for some it might not come so easy. Maybe you're a triathlete, maybe you love yoga, maybe you're looking to increase your physical fitness and get into something new. Whatever your history or experience (or lack thereof), you are welcome here.  

Additional disclaimer: I am a clinical social worker and mental health professional, I am NOT a doctor or a fitness/nutrition coach. I cannot give medical or training advice, but I can refer you to fitness coaches, helpful doctors, physical therapists, nutritionists and other resources as needed. My thoughts on this blog are based from my personal experiences as a runner and my professional training as a clinician.