Name: Sarah Wellner
Instagram Handle: @swellyfit
Age: 34
Location: Near Milwaukee, WI
Occupation: Practice Manager for Orthodontist
Hobbies: Reading, yoga, running
Meet Sarah:
When and how did you first begin your health and fitness journey?
I have always suffered from stomach issues from the time I was in high school. Years of tests and procedures led to a diagnosis of Irritable Bowel Syndrome and Gastroesophageal Relfux Disease. I would constantly be bloated, sometimes in such severe pain that no matter the situation, I would either have to unbutton my pants or just go home to get out of any tight-fitting clothes. Sometimes my belly looked like I was pregnant. I tried medication after medication trying get the issue under control. I even had my gallbladder removed. Finally, a doctor suggested that maybe stress was playing a role in my medical issues. It turned out that I was actually suffering from anxiety, something that at the time, I associated with depression and hadn’t recognized it.
Once I was put on medication, my symptoms became much more manageable. I was still living off of Gas-X, but life was good. I tried going off a couple of times, thinking it was under control, but ended up going back to the doctor every time. In the fall of 2009, I had started a new med and was having some annoying side effects. That’s when I decided that I needed to find an alternative way to treat my anxiety.
The doctor had told me for years that exercise can be an excellent tool for managing anxiety. I decided to take a beginners yoga class and I fell in love. And there started my interest of working out. I started a routine of yoga and running and saw immediate results in my levels of anxiety. I was amazed at what exercise could do! I felt like a entirely new person!
In 2012 I had a baby and was able to continue treating my anxiety through physical activity, up until the spring of 2015. I noticed increased anxiety and experienced the onset of panic attacks a handful of times and knew that I needed a little more help managing it. I started seeing a therapist and started medication and continue with my yoga, running and started participating in the LG challenges.
Lauren taught me about a part of working out that I never experienced and I have learned how strong I can be inside and out. I want everyone to know that physical activity can play a huge role in treating anxiety, depression or any mental illness! But also know that you are not a failure if you seek out medical assistance. At this time in my crazy life with a four year old and a full time job, I need a little more help, and I’m okay with that. 🙂
What’s been the greatest result from this lifestyle change?
Obviously my mental health has been greatly affected by daily physical activity. This is a lifetime commitment. And my arms! Didn’t know I could look so strong!
If you only had 15 minutes to workout, what would you do?
I am not a fan of HIIT, but you can really make an impact in a short amount of time. Even one round of 30 x 30. But if I wanted to like what I was doing for that 15 minutes… Biceps and triceps 😉
What is a healthy eating tip that works for you as well as not-so-healthy eaters you may have in your family?
80/20 rule. I don’t deprive myself. I also try to view that 80% of nutritious food as fuel. It helps to remind me that even though those hard shells smell so good while my husband is eating tacos, I can still get the Mexican feel with a taco salad. I also know me. I can’t just have one of anything. So I try to stay strong and avoid the naughty treats most of the time.
How has the LG Community played a role in your journey?
My one year LG anniversary is coming up at the end of this month!
Do you have any advice for a fellow LG Sister looking to make a healthier change?
Take advantage of this amazing support group Lauren has created! I wouldn’t be where I am if I didn’t have the other LG sisters sharing their journeys with me and reminding me that we aren’t perfect and we shouldn’t set out to be. Everyone has challenged in life and we are all here to help each other through them.
FAVS:
Favorite Quote: Whatever is good for the soul… Do that.
Favorite Travel Spot: I haven’t been there yet!
Favorite Book: This is embarrassing: the Shopaholic Series and anything by Sophie Kinsella.
Favorite Movie: Home Alone Show: Friends
Favorite Weekend Activity: coffee and snuggles with my little while he watches cartoons
Favorite Healthy Food: right now, carrots and PB. There is nothing better than a good chopped salad.
Favorite Treat: Taco Dip
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