As I sit here, reflecting on my mental health journey, I am reminded of the profound impact that exercise and nutrition have had on my life. At 38 years old, I weighed 18 stone, and my mental health was in shambles. But it was during that darkest of times that I discovered the transformative power of physical activity and healthy eating.

Looking back, I realise that my weight gain was a symptom of my mental health struggles. I was using food as a coping mechanism, trying to fill the void left by my dwindling self-esteem. But as the pounds piled on, my mental health continued to deteriorate. I felt trapped in a vicious cycle, with no clear escape route.

That was until I made the decision to take control of my physical health. I started small, with short walks and gentle exercises, gradually increasing the intensity and duration as I built up my endurance. And then, something miraculous happened. As I began to shed the pounds, I started to feel a sense of clarity and purpose that I had been lacking for so long.

Exercise became my therapy, my sanctuary, and my salvation. It stimulated my mind, releasing endorphins that helped to alleviate my anxiety and depression. I started to feel more confident, more empowered, and more in control. And as I continued to push myself physically, I began to notice the positive impact it was having on my mental health.

But it wasn’t just exercise that played a crucial role in my recovery. Nutrition was also a key factor. I started to focus on eating whole, nutritious foods, cutting out the processed and sugary snacks that had become a staple of my diet. I learnt to cook healthy meals, to prepare snacks in advance, and to listen to my body’s hunger and fullness cues.

The combination of regular exercise and healthy eating had a profound impact on my mental health. I started to feel more grounded, more centred, and more at peace. I was better equipped to handle stress, to manage my emotions, and to cope with challenging situations.

But then, life threw me a curveball. I found myself in prison, facing a year-long sentence. It was a difficult and challenging time, and my mental health suffered as a result. The lack of nutrition and adequate exercise took its toll, and I struggled to maintain my physical and mental health.

However, I was determined to stay positive, to focus on my recovery, and to use the experience as an opportunity for growth. And as I settled back into life on the outside, I was determined to get back on track, to rediscover my love of exercise and healthy eating.

It’s been a year now since I left prison, and I’m proud to say that I’m getting back to my old self. I’m running regularly, cooking healthy meals, and prioritising my mental health. It’s not always easy, but it’s worth it.

As I look back on my journey, I am reminded of the transformative power of exercise and nutrition. It’s not just about physical health; it’s about mental health, too. By taking care of our bodies, we can also take care of our minds.

And so, I’ll leave you with a small poem, one that sums up my journey and the lessons I’ve learned along the way:

“A healthy body, a healthy mind,

A connection strong, a bond to find.

Through exercise and nutrition, I’ve found my way,

To a brighter tomorrow, a healthier day.

So let’s prioritise our health, let’s take control,

Let’s nourish our bodies, and soothe our souls.

For a healthy life is a happy life,

And that’s a journey worth taking, every step of the way.”

written by Darren Parker

blogger @poemstellium