Lent Begins Tomorrow

I haven't always given things up for Lent.  In college and just after college the churches I attended were more "evangelical" (if that really means anything anymore) and didn't really celebrate Lent, per se.  I did give up chocolate one year in college.  That was rough.

My husband doesn't always give something up...he often adds something into his life for the season of Lent.  This year, I've combined the two into a plan that will certainly make me more dependent on the Lord, and hopefully instill some extra discipline into my life.  My current life-theme is Balance...and this plan helps with that, I think.

The first part of my plan doesn't really have anything to do with Lent, although it will likely cause me to pray, examine, and depend on Jesus more.  After talking with my doctor, I believe it is time for me to slowly wean myself off my long-term anti-anxiety medication.  I'll start by cutting my daily dose in half (which will be the dose I was actually on to start with).  Then, if that succeeds, I'll continue to taper the dose over the next 6 months or so...and see what happens.  If I start to have problems...then I will chat with my doc again, and we'll figure something out.  I'm not opposed to being on medication (I haven't really experienced any side-effects other than mild weight gain), but it is preventing me from taking some steps in my life that I feel are next for me.

I have to admit, since I started feeling so much better anxiety-wise (likely a combo of hormones re-balancing, medication, therapy, etc), I've gotten kind of lazy in taking natural steps to reduce my anxiety.  So, my Lenten disciplines this year will be things that are good/healthy for me in general, but especially helpful in managing and preventing anxiety.

Lenten discipline #1- Exercise every day of Lent

This one isn't especially difficult for me.  I was exercising practically every day last summer anyway.  And recently, I've still been exercising 3-5 days a week.  But exercise really is key to combating anxiety for me, so as I transition to less medication, I know I'll need to be more diligent that I have been about exercise.

Lenten discipline #2- Get up at 7 AM every day...even on the weekends

Those of you who know me well are laughing right now.  I am NOT a morning person.  I've gotten even worse lately...to the point that I don't shower every morning (mostly because I'll be showering after working out in the afternoon).  It's not a terrible thing, but arising later and feeling rushed in the morning doesn't start the day off well for me.  One thing that my counselor has suggested from day one is getting up early, going to the kitchen, and just sitting and drinking coffee.  And reading, writing, staring...whatever helps me slowly awaken and not feel rushed.  So I'm going to try this.  I hope I'm successful.  It will also mean being disciplined and going to bed earlier than I usually want to in order to get enough rest.  We'll see...

Lenten discipline #3- No alcohol

I love wine.  I really do.  Not for the buzz or the relaxation factor, but the taste.  And, ok...I like beer, too.  And the occasionally whiskey. But I do notice a difference in how I feel anxiety-wise the day after I've had any alcohol.  I've given up alcohol for Lent before.  It wasn't that difficult.  It may be more so this time.  But I believe it is another key to keeping myself balanced with less medication.

My husband is participating with me in all 3 of my Lenten disciplines.  I'm so thankful for him and his support.  He has been a rock for me over the past year of learning, and balancing, and adjusting. 

I slept in a bit this morning, have not exercised, and plan on having a glass of wine this evening.  So until tomorrow...laissez les bon temps roulez!