Embracing Change: Trying Something New for Better Health

A New Bike Adventure Begins

I got a new bike. And it’s unlike any other bike I’ve ever owned.

Ever since I was a kid, I’ve ridden coaster brake bikes—the ones where you backpedal to slow down or stop. I’ve never even ridden a bike with gears or a handbrake. But I’m trying something new. It’s not that I’ve suddenly developed a passion for fancy bicycles. It’s an adaptation. Let me explain…

Adapting to My Physical Health Challenges

I’ve got arthritis on the tops of my feet and in one of my knees resulting from an injury several years ago. I’m working on improving it. I’m using supplements and strengthening exercises to rebuild the cartilage in my knee. I’m also working on reducing inflammation for arthritis in the tops of my feet. But I don’t want to add wear and tear while I’m trying to repair it. So for now, it has the potential to slow me down.

In fact, it’s made hiking — my favorite activity — very hard to do.

A Change of Plans for an Adventure

My husband and I both work virtually, so we’re able to go on adventures while keeping up with our work responsibilities. So we’ve planned a long trip in our RV. Our destination? Page, Arizona — a great place for canoeing and hiking.

But with my arthritis flare-up, hiking isn’t going to work. And that’s super disappointing.

I could just give it up. I could spend this trip feeling sad because I can’t do what I really want to do. But, that’s not me. And my husband wouldn’t let me get away with that anyway…

Discovering Electric Bikes as a Solution

So because hiking is a no-go, my husband came up with a solution. He bought us electric bikes. Brilliant! It’s not the same as hiking, but I can still get out and enjoy the beautiful Arizona scenery without being in pain or making my joint issues worse. And it’s an electric bike. How hard could it be? 😳

Turns out, it’s actually very challenging. Remember, I’ve never ridden a 10-speed or anything other than a one-speed. I’m used to braking with my feet and using my hands only for steering. But now both the brakes and throttle are on the handlebars. And this thing goes fast — much faster than I’m used to riding.

Riding this new bike is awkward and uncomfortable. My old coaster brake bike is intuitive, easy. But this thing… not so much. I’m having to really concentrate. I keep hitting the brake and the throttle at the same time! And I’ve developed a bit of a mental block about riding it.

Pushing Through the Fear and Discomfort

But if I want to be able to ride my bike on this trip and on the hills, I’ve got to get past the mental block and make time in my schedule to practice. So that’s what I’m doing. It isn’t easy. It certainly isn’t comfortable. But I refuse to let not being able to hike ruin this trip for me.

So I’m doing it. I’m pushing through the fear and the discomfort.

Embracing Change and Improving Our Lives

As adults, it can be hard to try new things or make changes — even things that will improve our quality of life. It’s soooo much easier to just stay where you are, where things are familiar.

For me, this means learning to ride this crazy new bike. What is it for you?

Maybe it’s making lifestyle changes that help you feel better. Taking that food sensitivity test that you are so afraid of. Or perhaps you need to focus on mental health, build community, or work on a relationship…

They say you can’t teach an old dog new tricks. But we aren’t old. And we aren’t dogs. As long as we are breathing and existing on this planet, we can improve our lives. We can grow and change and try new things.

Your Journey to Better Health

This week I just want to remind you that we can do this. Whatever our age or station, we all deserve to feel good and enjoy life.

And if you know it’s time to pay more attention to your physical health, I’m here to help. We can work together to figure out what steps you can take with nutrition, supplements, and lifestyle that can make a difference for you.

If you’re ready to make some changes that will help you feel better, let’s chat. We can talk through your concerns and how you’re feeling. Then I’ll recommend some next steps. This may include some lab testing to make sure the changes you make will make a difference. And we’ll talk about the best nutrition and lifestyle changes for you. You can book a free consultation here.

You’re capable of doing things differently, of learning something new. We all are, even when it’s uncomfortable.