January Blues and Rediscovering Fitness

January Blues and Rediscovering Fitness

In the depths of January, I find myself grappling with the post-holiday slowdown, coupled with the dreary weather that has descended upon our town. The cold seeps into my bones, and I can’t help but tense my shoulders against it, a habit that only exacerbates my discomfort. It’s time to break free from this cycle and unclench my muscles, allowing myself to relax and embrace the season.

Embracing Exercise and Overcoming Challenges

In an effort to combat the winter blues and regain a sense of well-being, I’ve decided to embark on a renewed fitness journey. It’s been over a year since I last ran regularly, and I’ve chosen this challenging time of year to pick up the habit again. While the weather may not be ideal for outdoor runs, I’m determined to make it work, whether it means joining a gym or doing aerobics in my living room. Exercise has always had a transformative impact on my life, and I’m eager to rediscover the benefits it offers.

I know it won’t be easy. The cold and darkness can be discouraging, and the temptation to stay indoors and hibernate is strong. But I’m determined to push through the challenges and make fitness a priority in my life once again. I’m hoping that as I pass by bundled-up neighbors on my runs, they’ll offer me a smile or a word of encouragement. Your support would mean the world to me.

Birthday Wishes and Upcoming Events

As we navigate the month of January, I would like to extend my heartfelt birthday wishes to Kevin Gundersen, who will be celebrating his special day on January 18th. May your day be filled with joy, laughter, and cherished moments with loved ones.

The town is abuzz with various events and activities that promise to brighten up these cold winter days. On Friday, January 19th, the Barn, Bowl, and Bistro will host TBD Improv, an unscripted comedy show featuring talented improvisers from across the country. Get ready for an evening of side-splitting laughter and quick-witted performances. To secure your tickets, visit the TBD Improv website.

For families with young children, the M.V. Family Center presents Barn Buddies on Sunday, January 21st, at the Agricultural Hall. This event offers a fun-filled afternoon for kids aged 18 months to 8 years, with bikes, trikes, scooters, and games galore. Dress warmly and let your little ones burn off some energy in a safe and supervised environment.

St. Andrew’s Church continues its tradition of hosting Community Suppers every Monday at 5:30 pm. These suppers are a wonderful opportunity for community members to come together, share a meal, and foster a sense of belonging. All are welcome to attend and enjoy the warmth of human connection.

Toddler Tuesday: Nature Explorers at Long Point Wildlife Refuge

On Tuesday, January 23rd, the Long Point Wildlife Refuge invites toddlers and their caregivers to participate in Toddler Tuesday: Nature Explorers. This program is designed to spark curiosity and a love for the natural world in young minds. Embark on a scavenger hunt through the refuge, followed by a snack and nature stories at the visitor center. Dress appropriately for the weather, bring a water bottle, and get ready for an adventure-filled morning.

“Living Fully, Dying Prepared” Workshop Series at the Edgartown Library

The Edgartown library is hosting a thought-provoking workshop series titled “Living Fully, Dying Prepared.” Led by local death doula and community educator Jelisa Difo, this three-part series will delve into end-of-life planning, mortality, and the art of living a fulfilling life. Engage in discussions, activities, and exercises that will deepen your understanding of these important topics. Registration is required, and the first workshop will focus on “Life Review: Mapping Your Life In Years.”

Quiet News Week and an Appeal for Stories

This week has been relatively quiet in terms of news and events, leaving me feeling creatively challenged. When news is slow, I often find inspiration in nostalgia or share tales from my personal experiences. However, I’m currently lacking the spark to produce anything exciting or clever. As a result, I’m running late on my deadline, and I apologize for the inconvenience.

In the meantime, I would love to hear from our readers. If you have any travel or adventure stories that you’d like to share, please feel free to reach out to me. Your stories will help enrich the column and bring joy to our community.

Conclusion

As we navigate the challenges of January, let us embrace the opportunities for growth and renewal that this season presents. Whether it’s rediscovering our love for fitness, cherishing special occasions, or engaging in meaningful community events, there is always something to find joy and purpose in. I wish you all a wonderful and less flooded week. If you happen to be traveling or embarking on new adventures, please share your stories with me, and I’ll be happy to pass them along to our readers. Until next time, stay warm, stay connected, and let’s continue supporting one another through the ups and downs of life.