It started one morning at the bus stop when my neighbor mentioned how addicted she was to her gym. She was going to Orange Theory every day, even on the weekends.
I had recently performed in my latest work, Cross-Pollination at the California Academy of Sciences with my performers, many of whom were a full half my age. I had gotten back in shape with my Ballet classes and pull-ups on my custom-designed pull-up bar. But three-quarters of the way through the dance, which we were performing four times a day, I noticed that I would get pooped and start wishing it was my turn to exit. This was strange for a lifelong performer who usually loved being on stage. I realized that although I had gotten strong again, my cardiovascular fitness had plummeted. I lacked endurance.
Well, I will try almost anything. I joined her at Orange Theory. This was not the poetic art practice of Ballet. This was a place people went to sweat, fast, to loud beats, for an hour. Ah, cardio. Yes.
It has been about a year now. It isn’t a perfect practice. One day I fantasize about an exercise ritual that is social and spiritual in nature, but in the rain, efficiently, this can’t be beat. My neighbor will still lift twice as much as me and run much faster, but my heart feels stronger. When I do any other exercise, I feel a base of sustainable stability. I can ski, swim, and ballet from here with less desperation.
This habit has changed me. I listen to workout music for fun. I relate to Goggins as he speaks in this track. I feel a bit more like a dude. I can imagine really getting off on testosterone. I have a positive take on discipline, rigor, challenge, and strength, which is greater than before this new habit. OT has changed me. This habit has become me.
Psychedelics give people an opportunity to establish new habits by breaking down old, deeply engrained constructs. What habit can you employ that will become you in a way that you truly want?