Lena Dunham isn't one to shy away from talking about her struggles with body image and anxiety, and in a recent Instagram photo, she got extra motivational.
The "Girls" creator posted a paparazzi snap on the image-sharing app, which shows her dressed in fitted workout gear while out for a run (in character as Hannah Horvath). For Dunham, seeing this photo surface online was a big deal, but not in the way you might think. Instead of dwelling on the fact the paps snapped her wearing no makeup (which some might do) the 29-year-old took pride in the image because of how she felt when it was taken.
She shared a heartfelt caption with the photo, explaining to her followers that being able to complete her run with a positive attitude was a major step for her.
Not usually one to post a paparazzi shot but this fills me with pride. Basically my whole life I have hated running and run like a wounded baby Pterodactyl. It was embarrassing and honestly I did not trust myself to escape a burning building or even move briskly towards a buffet. @jennikonner is directing the season finale of Girls and decided that as Hannah evolved so would her run, so she got me a training session with Matt Wilpers from Mile High Run Club. Within an hour I had a different relationship to this formerly torturous activity. I felt strong, swift and proud. I'm not about to embrace that triathlon life but it's a true joy to continue getting more connected to my body and its powers. (Extra motivation provided by @manrepeller for @outdoorvoices.)#moveforyourmind.
And this isn't the first time Dunham's been open about how exercising has had a positive influence on her life. Back in April, the body-positive activist shared an image of herself in different workout wear with another great caption.
Promised myself I would not let exercise be the first thing to go by the wayside when I got busy with Girls Season 5 and here is why: it has helped with my anxiety in ways I never dreamed possible. To those struggling with anxiety, OCD, depression: I know it's mad annoying when people tell you to exercise, and it took me about 16 medicated years to listen. I'm glad I did. It ain't about the ass, it's about the brain.
Keep being you, Lena.
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