“There’s a lot to learn about life through exercise, through triathlons, or through any kind of movement,” shares Dr. Susan Gershenhorn, PhD. Dr. Susan is a licensed psychologist, host Elizabeth Pongo’s mother-in-law, and also an accomplished athlete with seven half Iron Man’s under her belt. Dr. Susan applies what she learns during movement to her life, taking time to slow down, listen to her body’s needs, and be more loving toward herself. 

Dr. Susan says that marathons are a lot like life because both require patience and balance. Whether you are preparing for a triathlon or just struggling to fall asleep, mindfulness practices like visualization can be helpful. Anything worth doing usually involves a lengthy process, so learning patience is key. In the second half of the episode, Dr. Susan discusses body dysmorphia and how prevalent it is in our society. She explains that in order to break free from body dysmorphia, you must learn to be kinder to yourself and vulnerable with others. She suggests beginning by telling yourself little things you like about your body every day. 

Tune into this week’s episode of Movement: The Science of The Self to learn more about mindfulness practices, triathlons, and body dysmorphia. 

Quotes

• “There’s a lot to learn about life through exercise or through triathlons, through any kind of movement.” (3:16-3:23 | Susan)

• “One of the things I often tell my clients is that you should exercise, eat right, and get sleep. That’s my motto in life. Those are the three pillars in how to have an emotionally healthy and balanced life.” (3:33-3:52 | Susan)

• “I just tried to be more gentle and more loving to myself.” (21:48-21:54 | Susan)

• “You listen to your body, and it says, don't go out workout today. You don't go. You hurt yourself? You don’t do it. So that's the balance.” (31:00-31:12 | Susan)

“• It doesn't matter what you visualize. It matters that you start thinking about it, you write about it, and then you incorporate it into your mind. Act as if you are a great triathlete.” (34:29-34:47 | Susan)

Links

Mirror, Mirror on the Wall: Breaking the "I Feel Fat" Spell by Andrea Wachter

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/29615302-mirror-mirror-on-the-wall

https://pongopower.com/

https://www.facebook.com/pongo.power/

https://www.instagram.com/pongopower/

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