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Balancing Pixels and Push-Ups: My Journey as a Creative Embracing Fitness
Balancing Pixels and Push-Ups: My Journey as a Creative Embracing Fitness
Writing
Balancing Pixels and Push-Ups: My Journey as a Creative Embracing Fitness
Writing
Balancing Pixels and Push-Ups: My Journey as a Creative Embracing Fitness
Cover video by: @SHOT_BYT
As a creative, my days are steeped in a rich tapestry of ideas, vibrant colors, and intricate designs, primarily manifesting within the boundless digital expanse. My reality often blurs into a virtual canvas, where creativity flows through clicks and keystrokes. But beyond this digital dominion lies a realm that's just as integral to my being – my love for fitness (and lifting heavy shit). This isn't merely another checkbox in my daily routine; it's a foundational pillar of my lifestyle, essential for balancing the abstract artistry of my professional life.
In the whirlwind of pixels and project deadlines, my fitness routine stands as a bastion of discipline and self-care. It's a practice that transcends mere physical activity; it's a ritual that nourishes both body and mind, fostering a sense of balance essential for any creative professional. This commitment to health and fitness is not just a counterbalance but a symbiotic component of my creative process, allowing me to delve deeper into my work while staying grounded in the physical world.
In this post, I delve into several fitness themes that are particularly close to my heart. Drawing from my unique journey as a creative professional, I explore how these topics resonate with and impact my life. From the nuanced relationship between the gym and mental health to the transformative role of fitness in enhancing creativity and managing ADHD, I share my personal reflections, experiences, and new ventures. This is a candid look into how my dedication to fitness intersects with my creative process, shaping both my physical and mental well-being.
Hitting The Gym Is NOT Therapy
It irks me when people loosely equate going to the gym with therapy; it's a misconception that needs addressing. Yes, the gym is therapeutic, offering a release from daily stress and a boost in endorphins, but it's not therapy in the professional sense. The therapeutic benefits of fitness are undeniable – it can elevate mood, reduce anxiety, and enhance overall well-being. However, these benefits are distinct from the specialized treatment that therapy provides. Therapy, conducted by licensed professionals, is a process of deep emotional and psychological exploration and healing. It involves structured, guided techniques to address and resolve complex mental health issues, something that a gym routine, no matter how intense or committed, cannot replicate. Understanding this difference is crucial. While embracing the therapeutic aspects of fitness is beneficial, it's important to recognize that professional therapy offers a level of mental health care that goes beyond the scope of what regular exercise can achieve.
Why I lift? The Benefits & The Facts
Physically speaking, the perks of hitting the gym go way beyond just looking good. We're talking about real, science-backed health benefits. The American Heart Association isn’t just whistling Dixie when they talk up the importance of regular exercise for overall health. And Dr. Aaron Baggish from Massachusetts General Hospital nails it with his take: "Exercise works like a drug for many chronic diseases and injuries—it can reduce heart disease risk, lower blood pressure, improve insulin sensitivity, and possibly reduce the risk of certain cancers." That's a big deal, especially in a field like mine where sitting for hours on end is the norm.But here’s the kicker – for me, it's not just about dodging health bullets. Integrating a solid workout routine into my life is like signing a contract with myself – a commitment to not just stay in shape, but to stay disciplined, accountable, and focused. It's like every squat, every lift, isn't just building muscle; it's building character. This commitment to fitness is more than a health choice; it's a lifestyle choice that keeps me sharp, energized, and ready to tackle whatever creative challenge comes my way. It’s about keeping the engine running smoothly in both body and mind, ensuring I’m always ready to bring my A-game, both professionally and personally.
Mentally, the impact of regular exercise is a game changer, and it's not just me saying this – the science backs it up. The 'Journal of Psychiatry & Neuroscience' (2016) talks about how those endorphins you get from a good workout can seriously uplift your mood and even help fend off depression. This hits home for me. In the hustle of creative work, where mental blocks and stress are part of the daily grind, hitting the gym has become my go-to for a mental reset. It's like my brain gets a reboot with every session. Renowned neuroscientist Dr. Wendy Suzuki puts it perfectly: "Exercise is the most transformative thing that you can do for your brain today." Her words ring true in my life. In a profession where creativity is currency, keeping my brain in top shape is non-negotiable, and fitness is my secret weapon. It's not just about keeping fit; it's about keeping my mind sharp and my ideas flowing.
When it comes to fueling my creative fires, fitness is my secret ingredient. It's like stepping into a different world where I can push back from the intense focus required in my projects. This physical shift is crucial for me to avoid getting bogged down in the nitty-gritty and overthinking every detail. And guess what? There's legit science backing this up. A study from 'Frontiers in Human Neuroscience' (2013) points out how getting active can actually amp up your creative thinking. This is music to my ears, validating those moments in the gym when ideas just start flowing.
But it's not just about science; it’s about feeling that rush. Renowned artist and creativity expert Julia Cameron once said, “Movement is medicine for creating change in a person's physical, emotional, and mental states.” This hits right at the heart of what I experience. When I'm out there, be it lifting weights or pounding the pavement, it's like my mind opens up to new possibilities, new ideas. It's not just exercise; it's an exercise in thinking outside the box. This physical movement becomes a metaphor for mental mobility, keeping my creative juices flowing and ensuring that I never find myself stuck in a rut. It’s about keeping the body active and the imagination even more so.
ADHD Vs. The Gym
In the intricate dance of managing ADHD as a creative professional, fitness plays a pivotal role for me, acting as a stabilizer amidst the whirlwind of constant brainstorming, looming deadlines, and the multitasking chaos that characterizes my field. Dealing with ADHD means grappling with a unique set of challenges – hyperactivity, distractibility, and a restless mind – all of which can be exacerbated in a creative environment. My commitment to fitness is more than just a health choice; it's a strategic move to harness and regulate this restless energy. It's fascinating to see this mirrored in scientific research as well. A study in 'Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise' highlights how regular physical activity significantly enhances cognitive functions and attentiveness in individuals with ADHD. This is a direct echo of my personal journey, where I find that a solid workout helps in tuning out the noise and focusing my creative energy.
To put it into perspective, Dr. John Ratey, a renowned psychiatrist and ADHD expert, aptly encapsulates the essence of this strategy in his book 'Spark: The Revolutionary New Science of Exercise and the Brain': “Exercise is like medication for ADHD. It’s like taking a little bit of Prozac and a little bit of Ritalin.” This quote powerfully resonates with my experience. Each session at the gym acts as a natural dose of mental clarity, helping me sift through the creative clutter and zero in on my artistic visions with a renewed sense of purpose. It's a balancing act – using physical exertion to achieve mental equilibrium, ensuring that my ADHD doesn't steer me away from my creative goals but rather adds to the dynamism of my process.
PR's & Goals
2023 was a year of breakthroughs in my fitness journey, the year I truly went all-in with my gym routine. For someone deeply rooted in the creative world, where your mind needs to be as fit as your ideas, maintaining this level of physical discipline has been a game changer.
Let me paint a picture of my victories: I smashed a 300 lbs barbell back squat, soared to 205 lbs in the front squat, and powered through a 375 lbs deadlift. These aren't just numbers; they're tangible proofs of my determination, reflecting how far I've come in channeling discipline and strength, not just in the gym but in my creative pursuits as well.
Shoutout my coach (and partner); Dante Martella aka Malleus Performance (Check him out!)
Now, as I gear up for 2024, I'm buzzing with excitement for what's next. My goals? They're bold, just like my designs. I'm eyeing a 315 lbs back squat, setting sights on 225 lbs for the front squat, and gearing up for a 405 lbs deadlift. And let's not forget the bench press – I'm going all out for 275 lbs. But it's not all about the weights; I'm stepping into new territory with boxing. It's not just about pushing my physical boundaries; it’s about stepping into an arena of mental toughness and agility.
These goals are my fuel. They drive me to push harder, not just in the gym but in every aspect of my creative life. There's a thrill in this pursuit, a sense of achievement and anticipation for what's to come. It's not just about building muscles; it's about building a future where I am at my strongest, most disciplined, and creatively unstoppable self.
New Ventures
Fueled by my profound passion for fitness, I've embarked on several unique fitness-related projects, with SoulFit being the most noteworthy. More than just a fitness app, SoulFit is an AI-powered lifestyle platform that intertwines fitness and wellness to foster authentic, real-life connections. Over the past eight months, my team and I have been meticulously shaping the first phase of SoulFit, meticulously integrating AI and advanced algorithms to ensure a personalized and impactful user experience. As we progress through 2024, we're excited to gradually introduce more features, leading up to the anticipated beta launch in the fourth quarter. SoulFit isn't just about fitness routines; it's about creating a community bonded by wellness, and I'm enthusiastic about its potential to transform how people interact with fitness and each other.
Instagram: @isyoursoulfit
Final Reflection
As I reflect on the intertwining of my creative life with my fitness journey, I'm filled with immense gratitude. Each day, immersed in a digital world of vibrant ideas and designs, I've found a grounding and revitalizing counterpoint in my passion for fitness. This isn't just a hobby; it's a pillar of my lifestyle, integral to maintaining the balance and energy I need for my creative work. This year, I've pushed my limits, both in the gym and in my professional life, achieving personal bests and pouring my energy into SoulFit, a project that embodies my belief in the power of fitness and community. As I look forward to 2024, I'm excited and grateful for the opportunities to grow, both creatively and physically. My fitness journey has not only enhanced my physical well-being but has also been a key player in managing my ADHD, sharpening my focus, and fueling my creative fire. Every squat, every deadline, every new feature in SoulFit is a step towards a stronger, more disciplined, and creatively unstoppable me. Here's to the continued blend of fitness and creativity, building a future where I can reach new heights in every aspect of my life.
Cover video by: @SHOT_BYT
As a creative, my days are steeped in a rich tapestry of ideas, vibrant colors, and intricate designs, primarily manifesting within the boundless digital expanse. My reality often blurs into a virtual canvas, where creativity flows through clicks and keystrokes. But beyond this digital dominion lies a realm that's just as integral to my being – my love for fitness (and lifting heavy shit). This isn't merely another checkbox in my daily routine; it's a foundational pillar of my lifestyle, essential for balancing the abstract artistry of my professional life.
In the whirlwind of pixels and project deadlines, my fitness routine stands as a bastion of discipline and self-care. It's a practice that transcends mere physical activity; it's a ritual that nourishes both body and mind, fostering a sense of balance essential for any creative professional. This commitment to health and fitness is not just a counterbalance but a symbiotic component of my creative process, allowing me to delve deeper into my work while staying grounded in the physical world.
In this post, I delve into several fitness themes that are particularly close to my heart. Drawing from my unique journey as a creative professional, I explore how these topics resonate with and impact my life. From the nuanced relationship between the gym and mental health to the transformative role of fitness in enhancing creativity and managing ADHD, I share my personal reflections, experiences, and new ventures. This is a candid look into how my dedication to fitness intersects with my creative process, shaping both my physical and mental well-being.
Hitting The Gym Is NOT Therapy
It irks me when people loosely equate going to the gym with therapy; it's a misconception that needs addressing. Yes, the gym is therapeutic, offering a release from daily stress and a boost in endorphins, but it's not therapy in the professional sense. The therapeutic benefits of fitness are undeniable – it can elevate mood, reduce anxiety, and enhance overall well-being. However, these benefits are distinct from the specialized treatment that therapy provides. Therapy, conducted by licensed professionals, is a process of deep emotional and psychological exploration and healing. It involves structured, guided techniques to address and resolve complex mental health issues, something that a gym routine, no matter how intense or committed, cannot replicate. Understanding this difference is crucial. While embracing the therapeutic aspects of fitness is beneficial, it's important to recognize that professional therapy offers a level of mental health care that goes beyond the scope of what regular exercise can achieve.
Why I lift? The Benefits & The Facts
Physically speaking, the perks of hitting the gym go way beyond just looking good. We're talking about real, science-backed health benefits. The American Heart Association isn’t just whistling Dixie when they talk up the importance of regular exercise for overall health. And Dr. Aaron Baggish from Massachusetts General Hospital nails it with his take: "Exercise works like a drug for many chronic diseases and injuries—it can reduce heart disease risk, lower blood pressure, improve insulin sensitivity, and possibly reduce the risk of certain cancers." That's a big deal, especially in a field like mine where sitting for hours on end is the norm.But here’s the kicker – for me, it's not just about dodging health bullets. Integrating a solid workout routine into my life is like signing a contract with myself – a commitment to not just stay in shape, but to stay disciplined, accountable, and focused. It's like every squat, every lift, isn't just building muscle; it's building character. This commitment to fitness is more than a health choice; it's a lifestyle choice that keeps me sharp, energized, and ready to tackle whatever creative challenge comes my way. It’s about keeping the engine running smoothly in both body and mind, ensuring I’m always ready to bring my A-game, both professionally and personally.
Mentally, the impact of regular exercise is a game changer, and it's not just me saying this – the science backs it up. The 'Journal of Psychiatry & Neuroscience' (2016) talks about how those endorphins you get from a good workout can seriously uplift your mood and even help fend off depression. This hits home for me. In the hustle of creative work, where mental blocks and stress are part of the daily grind, hitting the gym has become my go-to for a mental reset. It's like my brain gets a reboot with every session. Renowned neuroscientist Dr. Wendy Suzuki puts it perfectly: "Exercise is the most transformative thing that you can do for your brain today." Her words ring true in my life. In a profession where creativity is currency, keeping my brain in top shape is non-negotiable, and fitness is my secret weapon. It's not just about keeping fit; it's about keeping my mind sharp and my ideas flowing.
When it comes to fueling my creative fires, fitness is my secret ingredient. It's like stepping into a different world where I can push back from the intense focus required in my projects. This physical shift is crucial for me to avoid getting bogged down in the nitty-gritty and overthinking every detail. And guess what? There's legit science backing this up. A study from 'Frontiers in Human Neuroscience' (2013) points out how getting active can actually amp up your creative thinking. This is music to my ears, validating those moments in the gym when ideas just start flowing.
But it's not just about science; it’s about feeling that rush. Renowned artist and creativity expert Julia Cameron once said, “Movement is medicine for creating change in a person's physical, emotional, and mental states.” This hits right at the heart of what I experience. When I'm out there, be it lifting weights or pounding the pavement, it's like my mind opens up to new possibilities, new ideas. It's not just exercise; it's an exercise in thinking outside the box. This physical movement becomes a metaphor for mental mobility, keeping my creative juices flowing and ensuring that I never find myself stuck in a rut. It’s about keeping the body active and the imagination even more so.
ADHD Vs. The Gym
In the intricate dance of managing ADHD as a creative professional, fitness plays a pivotal role for me, acting as a stabilizer amidst the whirlwind of constant brainstorming, looming deadlines, and the multitasking chaos that characterizes my field. Dealing with ADHD means grappling with a unique set of challenges – hyperactivity, distractibility, and a restless mind – all of which can be exacerbated in a creative environment. My commitment to fitness is more than just a health choice; it's a strategic move to harness and regulate this restless energy. It's fascinating to see this mirrored in scientific research as well. A study in 'Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise' highlights how regular physical activity significantly enhances cognitive functions and attentiveness in individuals with ADHD. This is a direct echo of my personal journey, where I find that a solid workout helps in tuning out the noise and focusing my creative energy.
To put it into perspective, Dr. John Ratey, a renowned psychiatrist and ADHD expert, aptly encapsulates the essence of this strategy in his book 'Spark: The Revolutionary New Science of Exercise and the Brain': “Exercise is like medication for ADHD. It’s like taking a little bit of Prozac and a little bit of Ritalin.” This quote powerfully resonates with my experience. Each session at the gym acts as a natural dose of mental clarity, helping me sift through the creative clutter and zero in on my artistic visions with a renewed sense of purpose. It's a balancing act – using physical exertion to achieve mental equilibrium, ensuring that my ADHD doesn't steer me away from my creative goals but rather adds to the dynamism of my process.
PR's & Goals
2023 was a year of breakthroughs in my fitness journey, the year I truly went all-in with my gym routine. For someone deeply rooted in the creative world, where your mind needs to be as fit as your ideas, maintaining this level of physical discipline has been a game changer.
Let me paint a picture of my victories: I smashed a 300 lbs barbell back squat, soared to 205 lbs in the front squat, and powered through a 375 lbs deadlift. These aren't just numbers; they're tangible proofs of my determination, reflecting how far I've come in channeling discipline and strength, not just in the gym but in my creative pursuits as well.
Shoutout my coach (and partner); Dante Martella aka Malleus Performance (Check him out!)
Now, as I gear up for 2024, I'm buzzing with excitement for what's next. My goals? They're bold, just like my designs. I'm eyeing a 315 lbs back squat, setting sights on 225 lbs for the front squat, and gearing up for a 405 lbs deadlift. And let's not forget the bench press – I'm going all out for 275 lbs. But it's not all about the weights; I'm stepping into new territory with boxing. It's not just about pushing my physical boundaries; it’s about stepping into an arena of mental toughness and agility.
These goals are my fuel. They drive me to push harder, not just in the gym but in every aspect of my creative life. There's a thrill in this pursuit, a sense of achievement and anticipation for what's to come. It's not just about building muscles; it's about building a future where I am at my strongest, most disciplined, and creatively unstoppable self.
New Ventures
Fueled by my profound passion for fitness, I've embarked on several unique fitness-related projects, with SoulFit being the most noteworthy. More than just a fitness app, SoulFit is an AI-powered lifestyle platform that intertwines fitness and wellness to foster authentic, real-life connections. Over the past eight months, my team and I have been meticulously shaping the first phase of SoulFit, meticulously integrating AI and advanced algorithms to ensure a personalized and impactful user experience. As we progress through 2024, we're excited to gradually introduce more features, leading up to the anticipated beta launch in the fourth quarter. SoulFit isn't just about fitness routines; it's about creating a community bonded by wellness, and I'm enthusiastic about its potential to transform how people interact with fitness and each other.
Instagram: @isyoursoulfit
Final Reflection
As I reflect on the intertwining of my creative life with my fitness journey, I'm filled with immense gratitude. Each day, immersed in a digital world of vibrant ideas and designs, I've found a grounding and revitalizing counterpoint in my passion for fitness. This isn't just a hobby; it's a pillar of my lifestyle, integral to maintaining the balance and energy I need for my creative work. This year, I've pushed my limits, both in the gym and in my professional life, achieving personal bests and pouring my energy into SoulFit, a project that embodies my belief in the power of fitness and community. As I look forward to 2024, I'm excited and grateful for the opportunities to grow, both creatively and physically. My fitness journey has not only enhanced my physical well-being but has also been a key player in managing my ADHD, sharpening my focus, and fueling my creative fire. Every squat, every deadline, every new feature in SoulFit is a step towards a stronger, more disciplined, and creatively unstoppable me. Here's to the continued blend of fitness and creativity, building a future where I can reach new heights in every aspect of my life.
