Hello! My name is Sasha and I became interested in running in the winter of 2010. My goal was to get healthy and have fun while doing it. For me, it took a while before the "fun part" to begin. The first few months, it was actually horrible and nauseating. I ran lamp post to lamp post wanting to toss my cookies. Thankfully, that feeling did pass and I've gone on to running over 50 races that range from 5km to 50 miles (80km).
I was diagnosed with bipolar disorder in 1996. At the time, I didn't know what was happening to me - which lead to dozens of hospitalizations and medications. Due to my extensive list of symptoms (delusions, psychosis, extreme mood fluctuations, risky behaviour, suicidal tndencies, etc), it became a very scary and isolating time. Once the doctors figured it out and explained to me what it was I had, I became very proactive in my recovery. Education was very important, and since then, I've had loads of training and work experience in the field of mental health. I've gone on to working in a variety of areas in this field. Including one-to-one assisting those with everything from basic life skills to reaching personal goals either in the community or in a facility. I've spoken and presented at various workshops and conferences as well as facilitated groups in the subject of wellness and self-advocacy.
Fitness and nutrition have always been an interest of mine (as mental and physical health ultimately go hand-in-hand), too. I've worked and volunteered as a fitness trainer and run coach. I'm also a certified Nutritional Wellness Specialist through Can-Fit-Pro. In the past I've taken numerous fitness workshops, BCRPA courses and am currently working towards my ACE certification.
From personal experience, I know how difficult it can be in controlling weight issues. Over the years, prescription drugs took a toll on my body - I became overweight, fatigued, 'foggy-brained' and unmotivated. By making several small lifestyle changes (incorporating exercise, proper nutrition and enough sleep) it has changed my life. Patience, the support of my family and finding the "funny" in everyday life has also been key. As a result, I've been medication-free and have lost a significant amount of weight (and have kept it off) for years.
I believe we can never stop learning and evolving in this particular subject - because of this, I'll always be a "student" in this field. Aside from being a full-time parent, I continue to try and help others in their fitness and health related goals.
This blog will share some of my "learnings" as well as describe some of my latest running and/or fitness "misadventures" that may or may not cause me the occasional discomfort or possible embarrassing moments. Well, this is me we're talking about so awkward situations are almost certain. Bare with me as I may digress into other topics as well. Regardless if what I discuss falls out of your realm of interest, I do hope at the very least, you find what I have to say be mildly entertaining... (and maybe even inspiring). :-)
