satisfaction.

This morning as I was slowly inching my way to work amongst hundreds of other Minnesota drivers, I was reflecting on what parts of my life I draw satisfaction from.   Certainly there is satisfaction in no longer being afraid of driving in rush hour traffic (a milestone that will most likely always amaze me!).   There is also satisfaction in sticking to my bedtime so that I can wake up refreshed instead of frustrated.   And who could forget the satisfaction that comes from having a really good conversation with a friend?   The longer my commute became, the more time I had to realize that the activity I most consistently draw satisfaction from is lap swimming.  

I realize that not everyone gets excited about immersing themselves in water and walking down a drafty hallway in the middle of winter, but even the anticipation of hopping in the pool puts my mind at ease.   You see, I cook to accomplish something but I swim to de-stress.    Let's be honest, my fate without an outlet to de-stress in is not a pretty one!

Regardless of whether I climb in the pool at 5am or 9pm, it has become incredibly important to me to make time to swim.   Swimming has given me a consistent outlet to exercise through, a healthy way to get in shape, and a predictable space to process my day in, regardless of what it was like.   Additionally, before re-introducing lap swimming into my life fifteen months ago, I questioned whether or not I would have the motivation and will to be intentionally active long-term.   Now that I swim there is no doubt in my mind that this is how I will work out for many years to come.  That might be the most satisfying part of all.