Hi everyone! Hope y’all are doing well. 

So, I’ve been keeping up with a regular exercise regimen for over 4 years. The gym is a regular part of my life. I workout alone for the most part. I often feel like people are smirking at me like I’m some circus freak. Idk if it’s because I’m a female with tattoos or I come off really “strong” in my personality but don’t intentionally mean to. I mean well. I’ve been told I’m in “intimidating” and end up being friends with that person, in most cases. 

I’m sure this is my lack of confidence and anxiety. I try not to assume. I’ve just been through a lot. Working on getting regular therapy again. Just moved not long ago and trying to get re-established. It’s hard for me to make friends as I can be shy and maybe come off as “friendly but reserved”. 🤷🏼‍♀️


Can anyone relate to anxiety in the gym? How to do you handle it? Any tips on readdressing thoughts? 

Thank you!