“So oftentimes it happens that we live our lives in chains and we never even know we have the key.”
– Lyrics from “Already Gone” from the album On the Border by Eagles, 1974
First of all, Readers, bear with me as I am still on a cloud from the recent Eagles concert in Indy. I confess that this was the sixth time I have seen them in concert and frankly each time was better than the last (except for ticket prices, of course!)
As always, I find their lyrics as well as their amazing voices stay with me. In particular, the line as noted above says so much about how we give up control that we actually have to be our best selves.
The “chains” which hold us back or hold us down are ones that possibly we drag around from childhood. Those who experienced tragedy or trauma in childhood especially are prone to feel weighed down by those chains throughout life. Those who were bullied or struggled with weight issues also often feel those chains tighten as they go through life.
As adults, those chains can be just as heavy. Drug and alcohol abuse chains require expert help, but the keys are there for recovery. Poor professional opportunities, marital difficulties, lack of education, chronic health issues, and even nutritional deficiencies and lack of exercise can be chains holding us down or holding us back. Loneliness is a chain for many; reach out through church or social groups to find interaction with others as a key to unlock that chain. Interestingly, social media can also be a chain which holds one back from meaningful, personal relationships.
The good news, of course, is that in almost every instance we do indeed hold the key; we do not need to live our lives in chains after all. For those whose chains include childhood trauma, the best course is to find professional counselors who specialize in emotional and mental therapies. If you are in a domestic abuse situation, law enforcement is your key.
There is a “key” for all those chains because no matter the strength of the chain, the key will open that lock. The keys are there to further your education, to seek marital counseling, to research best therapies for health issues, and educate oneself to better nutrition and achieving greater physical fitness.
Many of the “keys” I have noted above are available to all with little or no cost. In particular, if your key is through professional counseling, check with your local mental health agencies and you may find that there are programs from which you can benefit. If you need to further your education, you may find a degree program that is affordable and doable for your schedule. A key to better employment is to network in the area of your expertise or an area in which you know that you would be a valuable employee.
So – I know you are waiting for this! Here is the key to your nutrition and fitness chains – the same key will open both! Ditch the fast food. Cut the sugar intake. Add FRESH foods daily. Move your body. Find the activities that you enjoy and do it. Walking, cycling, dancing, pickleball/tennis, swimming, hiking, lifting weights, just move!
Don’t live your life in chains … you DO have the key!
Sharon McMahon, CNWC
The opinions expressed in this article are not intended to replace advice of your personal physician or licensed health professional. Please consult your physician for to any issues you may have related nutrition or fitness activity.