Depression, A Most Serious Force

There are two primary exercise activities that worked for me: basketball and running. Today, I primarily stick with basketball. You see, I’ve always been a fan of watching the NBA on TV, but I had never actually played basketball. One day I decided to get an inexpensive ball from Walmart. Luckily, my neighborhood has a nice court to play on for free. After day one, although I was absolutely terrible, I knew that it was for me. Ever since, two years later, I play at least 3 times a week. Sometimes by myself, sometimes with others. Either way, I make sure to get out there and just do the work.

It was not always easy to do. I was terrible at shooting the ball, as well as dribbling it. It was discouraging at times, but I knew that I just had to keep trying. Today, I continue to surprise myself with the basketball skills I have learned and can apply today.

In addition, there is a huge mental boost that comes along with the exercise. The simple act of forcing yourself to continue to exercise, even when you may be tired, or sad, or feeling anything but up to the task cannot be expressed enough.

I follow what is known as the ketosis diet. It consists of eating high fat, high protein, and low carbs. Generally I will get my calories as follows: 45% fat, 45% protein, 10% carbs. This includes no added sugar, as well as avoiding high sugar foods like apples.

It was not easy at all. I faced a huge challenge teaching myself to not eat carbs. I love ramen noodles, potatoes, and bread. These are all no-gos on a ketosis diet. In the end, it was all worth it. I went from 215 lbs to 160lbs over 6 months.