Without Wheels

I took my car to a mechanic to replace the shocks, but he ended up replacing the brakes and CV-joints, with the result that I didn’t have my car for a whole week.  At first I had no problem if the car had to stay longer than planned because I still have my bike for transport.  But I’m very fond of it, and I cannot go everywhere I want to because it could get stolen and I’m not prepared to take the risk.
Cycling in town, where the speed limit is sixty kilometers per hour, is scarier than the open road where I train with cars driving at one hundred kilometers per hour.

What I’ve learned though, is the importance of routine for bipolar 1.  I had planned not to have a car for two days, but not for a week and this upset my routine completely.  I couldn’t plan my day like I used to because I needed to be flexible so that when the guy called I’ll be able to go and pick up the car.
I also realised the importance of cycling and exercise for on my health.  From Sunday to Tuesday I was so frustrated!  Whenever someone would say something I didn’t agree with or go against my moral standards I was ready to spit fire!  But that would not do any good, so I kept it all inside and didn’t want to talk to anyone about anything.  When people asked why I was so angry, I asked them to leave me alone and not to ask questions.

Tuesday I had to look after my niece and nephew and they stay far from where I live, so I took this opportunity to ‘cycle out’ all my anger.  When I got home, all the anxieties, anger and frustration were gone and I felt I could breathe again!

People!  When you’re feeling down, do some exercise and you will feel better about yourself and your life situation!

By Deon Labuschagne