Interview: A Veteran’s Path to Resilience through BMX and MindGym

Introduction

As part of our ongoing mission to support the mental resilience of service members, veterans, and their families, we spoke with a disabled Air Force veteran who has navigated PTSD, depression, and recovery. This story highlights how discovering MindGym became a turning point — offering tools for healing and long-term transformation.

Over the past eight months, this veteran has completed more than 20 MindGym sessions and become a passionate advocate for its impact. This story is a testament to the power of mental skills training when the right resources are available at the right time.

Q&A

How did you first hear about MindGym?

“I started going to the fitness center on base and didn’t even realize there was a MindGym there. At first, I was intimidated — it looked dark and unfamiliar, and I had no idea what to expect. But something in me decided to give it a try.”

What made you decide to give MindGym a try?

“At the time, I was in a really dark place. I was struggling with severe depression — no motivation, no energy, racing thoughts, and panic attacks triggered by past trauma. I couldn’t cope. MindGym became my last resort before things got worse. I needed something to help me stay afloat.”

Do you remember your first few sessions in MindGym? What stood out?

“Yes. After just one session, I felt calmer than I had in a long time. It was so relaxing I could barely keep my eyes open. I’ve struggled with sensory overload, and MindGym helped shut out the noise and bring me back to center. After a while, I noticed my panic attacks were happening less frequently. I started to trust that I had something I could turn to when things felt overwhelming.”

What are your favorite sessions?

“Box Breathing and Snow. I prefer guided sessions — they help keep me focused. Without them, my thoughts go everywhere. The cues like “breathe in now” help anchor me and give me structure.”

Can you describe how MindGym helped during your most difficult moments?

“There were times I was in full-blown meltdown mode — thinking about self-harm. I would go into the MindGym, and after a single session, my emotions would settle. My thoughts would clear. It gave me a safe space to reset and start again.”

How would you describe your transformation over the past eight months?

“It’s been profound. I went from being someone who couldn’t get out of bed and was in constant pain to someone who now works out every day, participates in competitive athletics, and has even earned state-level recognition. The change started with MindGym. After just two sessions, I felt a shift in my energy, mood, and clarity.”

“It also made me a better parent. I learned how to regulate my emotions, understand my diagnosis, and take steps to heal. I’ve gone from regular episodes of depression and self-harm to recognizing the warning signs early and using what I’ve learned to pull myself back.”

What would you say to someone hesitant to try MindGym?

“It’s okay to be skeptical — I was too. But if you put in the effort, it truly works. You have to be ready for change and willing to use the tools. I used box breathing at work when I felt off — I’d take 15 minutes to get myself back on track. This program isn’t just for people with trauma; it can help anyone.”

Is there one word or phrase that sums up what the MindGym has meant to you?

“Life-changing. It’s helped me manage my emotions, notice my triggers, and reconnect with myself. Now I’ll lay in the grass, do box breathing, touch water or dirt, and just breathe. It’s brought me peace I didn’t think was possible.”

Have you shared MindGym with others?

“Yes — my parents and my spouse. My mom said it was one of the coolest experiences she’s ever had. The lights, the environment, the calm — it’s just unlike anything else. It’s hard to describe until you experience it for yourself.”

What do you wish more people understood about PTSD or depression?

“That it’s not just mental — it’s physical. As a disabled veteran, I deal with pain every day, and that can spiral into depression. I used to avoid the gym because I couldn’t work out, but now I tell myself, “Just go work on your mind.” MindGym gave me a reason to return — and gave me a way forward.”

Note: This interview has been shared with permission and anonymized for privacy. The experiences described reflect just one of the many stories we hear from across the military community — stories that continue to guide and inspire our work with MindGym.

“I went from being someone who couldn’t get out of bed and was in constant pain to someone who now works out every day, participates in competitive athletics, and has even earned state-level recognition. The change started with MindGym. After just two sessions, I felt a shift in my energy, mood, and clarity.”

I’ve struggled with sensory overload, and MindGym helped shut out the noise and bring me back to center. After a while, I noticed my panic attacks were happening less frequently. I started to trust that I had something I could turn to when things felt overwhelming.”

– Disabled Air Force Veteran – 2025