Posts
To be honest, three years ago I would have never thought that I would be able to run again, or play sports. After I hurt my back, any sort of higher impact activity was out of the question.
Now thanks to Beachbody and a crew of great doctors, I'm running again.
Okay I'm not running well, its more like little spurts of running mixed in a long walk, but that's more than I have done in the past. Today was the second "ralk" I've been on, the longest to date (3 miles). And I can say, I love it.
Had it not been for the incredible programs that Beachbody offers, I may never have reached this point. I know I wouldn't have the endurance to try it, that's for sure. But its more than that. Beachbody has helped me increase my endurance and strengthen my body to the point where I can go for a run.
My goal is to run a charity 5K. Not sure when I will run a 5K, but I'm planning on doing it.
If you have any fitness goals, such as running a 5K, Beachbody programs can help you achieve them. Many of the coaches and members have gone on to achieve incredible goals, including running marathons.
I recommend the products to help you get control of your fitness. If you have any questions about the programs, feel free to email. Happy to help out fellow fitness freaks.
Here's to our health!
Friday, August 28, 2009
Tony Horton Pays it Forward
We all need a little help sometimes, and TOny Horton is ready to help you with his new Pay It Forward DVD. Check out what paying it forward can do for you!
Wednesday, August 5, 2009
One lump or two? What sugar does to the body:
If you want to know how healthy you truly are, take a look at your skin. Skin can be a tell tale sign of your health. A balanced, healthy diet will produce a glow on your skin like no other.
But if you are consuming great amounts of refined sugar, your skin will betray you and quickly. Blemishes on the skin are indicative of a diet heavy in sugar. Yes, it is true that genetics and hormones do play a part, but if you are not fueling your body with the proper ingredients, your system cannot keep genetics and hormones in balance. A proper diet can actually control hormonal imbalances which promote blemishes.
A proper diet will also keep the bacteria on the skin at bay. Bacteria on the skin is another major cause of blemishes. Sugar can fuel the production of bacteria within the gut, which in turn, can fuel the production of bacteria of the skin. So no matter what you are putting on your skin, without a proper diet, blemishes will still return, only because of what you are putting in your body.
Sodas are the worst offenders, even diet sodas. So instead of fizzy drinks, drink water. Excessive amounts of sugar in the diet will cause the body to retain water, making you look and feel bloated. This goes for most carbohydrates. Think about it: if you place a piece of bread in water, what does it do? It expands and absorbs the water like a sponge. It does the same within the body. Drinking soda not only supplies the body with excessive amounts of sugar, it will cause the body to retain the water that is in the drink. The result: you retain water, become bloated and can quickly put on weight.
I have tried it. I weighed myself, then drank 2 20 oz sodas. Within a 24 hour period, I had put on 5 pounds. Just from drinking 2 sodas. So water is a better choice. An average man should drink about 3 liters, and a woman 2.2 liters of any sort of healthy fluid (juice, water, herbal tea, anything without refined sugars), but most people will remember the 8x8 rule better: that is, 8 8-oz cups of fluid a day.
So the next time you reach for the sugar bowl, that candy bar or a soda, think about what sugar can do to your body.
Is it worth dull, lifeless, blemished skin? A bloated, heavy feeling in the body? Excessive weight gain?
And think, how much more time in the gym will you need to burn off that soda or candy bar?
Are you willing to put in more time sweating just for a candy bar?
Is it worth it?
Well is it?
But if you are consuming great amounts of refined sugar, your skin will betray you and quickly. Blemishes on the skin are indicative of a diet heavy in sugar. Yes, it is true that genetics and hormones do play a part, but if you are not fueling your body with the proper ingredients, your system cannot keep genetics and hormones in balance. A proper diet can actually control hormonal imbalances which promote blemishes.
A proper diet will also keep the bacteria on the skin at bay. Bacteria on the skin is another major cause of blemishes. Sugar can fuel the production of bacteria within the gut, which in turn, can fuel the production of bacteria of the skin. So no matter what you are putting on your skin, without a proper diet, blemishes will still return, only because of what you are putting in your body.
Sodas are the worst offenders, even diet sodas. So instead of fizzy drinks, drink water. Excessive amounts of sugar in the diet will cause the body to retain water, making you look and feel bloated. This goes for most carbohydrates. Think about it: if you place a piece of bread in water, what does it do? It expands and absorbs the water like a sponge. It does the same within the body. Drinking soda not only supplies the body with excessive amounts of sugar, it will cause the body to retain the water that is in the drink. The result: you retain water, become bloated and can quickly put on weight.
I have tried it. I weighed myself, then drank 2 20 oz sodas. Within a 24 hour period, I had put on 5 pounds. Just from drinking 2 sodas. So water is a better choice. An average man should drink about 3 liters, and a woman 2.2 liters of any sort of healthy fluid (juice, water, herbal tea, anything without refined sugars), but most people will remember the 8x8 rule better: that is, 8 8-oz cups of fluid a day.
So the next time you reach for the sugar bowl, that candy bar or a soda, think about what sugar can do to your body.
Is it worth dull, lifeless, blemished skin? A bloated, heavy feeling in the body? Excessive weight gain?
And think, how much more time in the gym will you need to burn off that soda or candy bar?
Are you willing to put in more time sweating just for a candy bar?
Is it worth it?
Well is it?
Tuesday, August 4, 2009
Hold the salt please!
According to recent studies, the production of salt within the United States has gone up 50% since the mid-80s.
50 PERCENT.
That means more people are using salt to flavor their food, when most meals already have salt added to them or don't need salt at all. The average person only needs a half of gram of salt to function, while the average person eats up to 9 grams a day.
According to a recent article in Science Daily:
In a decade from 1976-1980 to 1988-1994 the prevalence of obesity increased 61 % among men and 52 % among women. During 1999 to 2002, the prevalence of obesity was 120 % higher among men and 99 % higher among women as compared with the 1976 to 1980 figures. The increased intake of salt, through induction of thirst with increased intake of high-energy beverages has obviously remarkably contributed to the increase of obesity in the United States.
It is noteworthy that, until 1983 the use of salt did not change or even showed a continuous decreasing trend in the United States. The prevalence of obesity was relatively low and remained essentially unchanged from early 1960s to early 1980s. The study suggests that a comprehensive reduction in salt intake, which would reduce the intake of high-energy beverages, would be a potentially powerful means in the so far failed attempts to combat obesity in industrialized societies.
So why are people adding salt and what does it mean to our bodies?
Mainly because their taste buds are dead to normal, natural tastes. Excessive salt intake can deadened the taste buds, requiring people to put more and more salt on their food to have some sense of taste.
But the increase in salt intake has more of a strong impact on the body, other than just deadening the taste buds. As stated in the Science Daily article, salt increases thrist, which is often quenched by sweetened beverages, like sodas. This one-two punch can overload the body, and keep the digestive system overwhelmed so it doesn't perform efficiently.
When the body is overwhelmed, the digestive system cannot properly metabolize food, so important vitamins are not absorbed. It also stresses out the immune system. When there are excessive fats and toxins in the body, the immune system focuses on the toxins and cannot properly fight germs and allergens, which means you are more susceptible to infection and disease.
Studies have shown that if people dropped their salt intake by 3 grams, from 9 grams to just 6, they reduce their chance of heart disease significantly, by up to 25%.
Dropping the salt intake can mean one other thing: you can actually taste your food again. Reducing the amount of salt you take in will lower your chances of heart disease, stroke and high blood pressure, but it will also increase the taste of your food. As your taste buds reawaken, you will begin to taste your food, taste the natural flavor.
This is of course if you are eating natural, non-processed foods. If you eat processed foods, your taste buds will remain dormant and dead. But processed foods aren't tasty anyway, wouldn't you agree?
Decreasing your salt intake, along with a balanced diet and exercise regiment, can increase the strength and the health of your system.
So next time, hold the salt....for your health!!!
University of Helsinki (2006, November 13). Salt Intake Is Strongly Associated With Obesity. ScienceDaily. Retrieved August 4, 2009, from http://www.sciencedaily.com? /releases/2006/11/061101151027.htm
50 PERCENT.
That means more people are using salt to flavor their food, when most meals already have salt added to them or don't need salt at all. The average person only needs a half of gram of salt to function, while the average person eats up to 9 grams a day.
According to a recent article in Science Daily:
In a decade from 1976-1980 to 1988-1994 the prevalence of obesity increased 61 % among men and 52 % among women. During 1999 to 2002, the prevalence of obesity was 120 % higher among men and 99 % higher among women as compared with the 1976 to 1980 figures. The increased intake of salt, through induction of thirst with increased intake of high-energy beverages has obviously remarkably contributed to the increase of obesity in the United States.
It is noteworthy that, until 1983 the use of salt did not change or even showed a continuous decreasing trend in the United States. The prevalence of obesity was relatively low and remained essentially unchanged from early 1960s to early 1980s. The study suggests that a comprehensive reduction in salt intake, which would reduce the intake of high-energy beverages, would be a potentially powerful means in the so far failed attempts to combat obesity in industrialized societies.
So why are people adding salt and what does it mean to our bodies?
Mainly because their taste buds are dead to normal, natural tastes. Excessive salt intake can deadened the taste buds, requiring people to put more and more salt on their food to have some sense of taste.
But the increase in salt intake has more of a strong impact on the body, other than just deadening the taste buds. As stated in the Science Daily article, salt increases thrist, which is often quenched by sweetened beverages, like sodas. This one-two punch can overload the body, and keep the digestive system overwhelmed so it doesn't perform efficiently.
When the body is overwhelmed, the digestive system cannot properly metabolize food, so important vitamins are not absorbed. It also stresses out the immune system. When there are excessive fats and toxins in the body, the immune system focuses on the toxins and cannot properly fight germs and allergens, which means you are more susceptible to infection and disease.
Studies have shown that if people dropped their salt intake by 3 grams, from 9 grams to just 6, they reduce their chance of heart disease significantly, by up to 25%.
Dropping the salt intake can mean one other thing: you can actually taste your food again. Reducing the amount of salt you take in will lower your chances of heart disease, stroke and high blood pressure, but it will also increase the taste of your food. As your taste buds reawaken, you will begin to taste your food, taste the natural flavor.
This is of course if you are eating natural, non-processed foods. If you eat processed foods, your taste buds will remain dormant and dead. But processed foods aren't tasty anyway, wouldn't you agree?
Decreasing your salt intake, along with a balanced diet and exercise regiment, can increase the strength and the health of your system.
So next time, hold the salt....for your health!!!
University of Helsinki (2006, November 13). Salt Intake Is Strongly Associated With Obesity. ScienceDaily. Retrieved August 4, 2009, from http://www.sciencedaily.com? /releases/2006/11/061101151027.htm
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
How badly do you want to reach your goals?
Sorry for the delay in writing, I haven't been feeling myself lately, so I needed to take a moment for myself. Sort of a mini-sabbatical to help realign my energies I suppose. Oh and I was having terrible allergy problems, but that is neither here nor there.
I have to confess, I really haven't felt like exercising lately. Actually, the thought of tossing it all had crossed my mind, but I decided my health was too important to waste like that.
So I'm realigning my focus. It isn't about the numbers anymore. It isn't about the calories, or the grams, or the time spent sweating. Its about me becoming one, mind and body fusing together to make me a happier, healthier individual.
I am sure I have spoken on this before, but it is important for you to decide to exercise because you want to do it, not because someone else (unless its a doctor)telling you to. YOU must make that conscious decision, or else, you're setting yourself up to fail. Most people who diet and exercise because of some external force-be it a loved one, a family member, an upcoming event, whatever-will find that they don't stick to their plans, because it isn't what THEY want. It has to be what YOU want.
You have to want it to receive it.
That's what I've spent the last two weeks thinking about. How badly do I want this? How badly do I want to be fit, lose weight, eat better, get healthy?
How badly?
It took me a while to finally answer that. I really had to search deep to find it, but the answer was there.
So how badly do you want it?
This goes with all goals. You achieving your dreams is dependent on how much you want it. If your entire spirit is not completely sold on the idea, you may have modest success, but you won't achieve everything you could. But if you are fully committed, if you fully believe, you will achieve everything. You will receive everything.
So how badly do you want to be fit?
How badly do you want to get healthy?
How badly do you want to lose weight?
When you answer those questions, I have one left: how can I help you achieve those goals?
Having a friend to help keep you on track, help keep you accountable will help you attain your goals. A great way to do this is join an online forum where you can meet online work out buddies. Beachbody has a great forum where you can log in work outs, keep a blog of your food diary, and meet others who can become work out buddies with you. Check it out!
I'm happy to be your work out buddy (after all, I need help too!)
And if I can help in anyway, please let me know!!
I have to confess, I really haven't felt like exercising lately. Actually, the thought of tossing it all had crossed my mind, but I decided my health was too important to waste like that.
So I'm realigning my focus. It isn't about the numbers anymore. It isn't about the calories, or the grams, or the time spent sweating. Its about me becoming one, mind and body fusing together to make me a happier, healthier individual.
I am sure I have spoken on this before, but it is important for you to decide to exercise because you want to do it, not because someone else (unless its a doctor)telling you to. YOU must make that conscious decision, or else, you're setting yourself up to fail. Most people who diet and exercise because of some external force-be it a loved one, a family member, an upcoming event, whatever-will find that they don't stick to their plans, because it isn't what THEY want. It has to be what YOU want.
You have to want it to receive it.
That's what I've spent the last two weeks thinking about. How badly do I want this? How badly do I want to be fit, lose weight, eat better, get healthy?
How badly?
It took me a while to finally answer that. I really had to search deep to find it, but the answer was there.
So how badly do you want it?
This goes with all goals. You achieving your dreams is dependent on how much you want it. If your entire spirit is not completely sold on the idea, you may have modest success, but you won't achieve everything you could. But if you are fully committed, if you fully believe, you will achieve everything. You will receive everything.
So how badly do you want to be fit?
How badly do you want to get healthy?
How badly do you want to lose weight?
When you answer those questions, I have one left: how can I help you achieve those goals?
Having a friend to help keep you on track, help keep you accountable will help you attain your goals. A great way to do this is join an online forum where you can meet online work out buddies. Beachbody has a great forum where you can log in work outs, keep a blog of your food diary, and meet others who can become work out buddies with you. Check it out!
I'm happy to be your work out buddy (after all, I need help too!)
And if I can help in anyway, please let me know!!
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
Double your weight loss? You can with a food journal.
I'm sure you have heard it before. Keep
a food journal. Keep track of everything
that you eat, everything you drink, and
you will see just what exactly is going
into your body. And it is true.
By keeping track of everything you eat,
including everything you drink, you can
see where you are "cheating." So often
we forget to include that piece of candy
there, or that disregard that cup of
coffee this morning, that had three scoops
of sugar and some creamer put into it, but
those calories can really add up. If you
are on a 1,600 calorie a day diet, and have
one soda, that is 150 calories gone with no
nutritional value to your body.
PLUS, it's 40 grams of sugar in your diet.
We are only suppose to have around 42 grams
a day, so there goes your recommended daily
allowance. One soda! Anything else you eat
during the day, if it has naturally occurring
sugar, will mean you are in sugar overload.
Which means, that excess sugar is being
converted into starch, so it can be stored as
fat!
That's right. All because of one soda. But you
don't think about one soda, because its a drink.
And you're not keeping track of your food.
This is why a food journal is necessary to diet
success. You have to account for everything,
including those cups of coffee or sodas.
Everything.
Keep a food journal is easy. You can blog about
your intake. You can keep a journal that you can
carry around in your purse or pocket, to record
items as you eat. Stores now have small pocket size
notebooks available that are perfect for journaling
about food.
You can also go to My Diet Diary and get a free online journal.
Its completely up to you, but if you want to lose
weight, adding a journal to your fitness program
will help. Most individuals end up losing twice
as much weight as they intended, just because they
became aware of the junk they were ingesting.
Honestly, have you ever stopped to think about what
you haven't had to eat during an average day?
This is a great way to become aware of how you may be
sabotaging your diet without even realizing it.
a food journal. Keep track of everything
that you eat, everything you drink, and
you will see just what exactly is going
into your body. And it is true.
By keeping track of everything you eat,
including everything you drink, you can
see where you are "cheating." So often
we forget to include that piece of candy
there, or that disregard that cup of
coffee this morning, that had three scoops
of sugar and some creamer put into it, but
those calories can really add up. If you
are on a 1,600 calorie a day diet, and have
one soda, that is 150 calories gone with no
nutritional value to your body.
PLUS, it's 40 grams of sugar in your diet.
We are only suppose to have around 42 grams
a day, so there goes your recommended daily
allowance. One soda! Anything else you eat
during the day, if it has naturally occurring
sugar, will mean you are in sugar overload.
Which means, that excess sugar is being
converted into starch, so it can be stored as
fat!
That's right. All because of one soda. But you
don't think about one soda, because its a drink.
And you're not keeping track of your food.
This is why a food journal is necessary to diet
success. You have to account for everything,
including those cups of coffee or sodas.
Everything.
Keep a food journal is easy. You can blog about
your intake. You can keep a journal that you can
carry around in your purse or pocket, to record
items as you eat. Stores now have small pocket size
notebooks available that are perfect for journaling
about food.
You can also go to My Diet Diary and get a free online journal.
Its completely up to you, but if you want to lose
weight, adding a journal to your fitness program
will help. Most individuals end up losing twice
as much weight as they intended, just because they
became aware of the junk they were ingesting.
Honestly, have you ever stopped to think about what
you haven't had to eat during an average day?
This is a great way to become aware of how you may be
sabotaging your diet without even realizing it.
Monday, July 13, 2009
Exercise ADD?
I admit it, I have an extreme case of exercise ADD.
I cannot stick with one program for very long. My
attention to the program wanes very quickly. If you
are anything like me, you need variety.
But here's the thing, variety is a good thing.
Varying your work outs can keep you from plateauing
out. A plateau is when you hit that brick wall in
diet and exercise, where you are not seeing any
results, nothing is changing. By frequently changing
your work outs, you can see better and more results.
If you decide to change up your work outs, try doing
it every three or four weeks. This is the premise
behind several of the Beachbody fitness programs.
Repeating the same program or work out every single
day can not only stop you from seeing results after
a while, but will create boredom and possibly cause
you to stop working out altogether.
P90X uses a frequent change in workouts. Each day is
a different program on a different DVD. After three
weeks, you change DVDs again. The new fitness program,
Insanity with Shaun T, is the same way. Other programs,
like Turbo Jam, Slim in 6 and Yoga Booty Ballet, all
offer different programs to be done on different days.
If you are going to the gym every day, doing 30 minutes
on the tread mill and 30 minutes in the weight room, most
likely, you are not going to see much difference after
you reach your plateau. You are just spinning your wheels
after a while. Changing your program every day means you
will see results and continue to see results.
And again, if you have exercise ADD like I do, you'll
stick with the programs.
But you'll thank yourself if you bring it and change it up!!
Join the Beachbody Revolution!
I cannot stick with one program for very long. My
attention to the program wanes very quickly. If you
are anything like me, you need variety.
But here's the thing, variety is a good thing.
Varying your work outs can keep you from plateauing
out. A plateau is when you hit that brick wall in
diet and exercise, where you are not seeing any
results, nothing is changing. By frequently changing
your work outs, you can see better and more results.
If you decide to change up your work outs, try doing
it every three or four weeks. This is the premise
behind several of the Beachbody fitness programs.
Repeating the same program or work out every single
day can not only stop you from seeing results after
a while, but will create boredom and possibly cause
you to stop working out altogether.
P90X uses a frequent change in workouts. Each day is
a different program on a different DVD. After three
weeks, you change DVDs again. The new fitness program,
Insanity with Shaun T, is the same way. Other programs,
like Turbo Jam, Slim in 6 and Yoga Booty Ballet, all
offer different programs to be done on different days.
If you are going to the gym every day, doing 30 minutes
on the tread mill and 30 minutes in the weight room, most
likely, you are not going to see much difference after
you reach your plateau. You are just spinning your wheels
after a while. Changing your program every day means you
will see results and continue to see results.
And again, if you have exercise ADD like I do, you'll
stick with the programs.
But you'll thank yourself if you bring it and change it up!!
Join the Beachbody Revolution!
Friday, July 10, 2009
My own worst enemy
I had a bit of a breakdown last night. Yes,
it's true. I almost gave up. I almost caved.
I took photos of myself after two weeks of
P90X, because someone asked if I had any
before and after shots. I hate the before I
have, and the current isn't much better. I
was so ashamed to even post it, because to me
it doesn't look like I have done anything. Yes,
maybe my stomach is a bit flatter, but when I
looked at the photo I saw nothing but a fat girl.
Yes, a fat girl.
I got so upset, thought to myself: how can I be
a fitness coach when I don't even look like I
work out?
How am I supposed to inspire anyone?
I blogged on another site, just to vent and get it
out of me. My lovely friends there supported me,
pointed out that is what makes me a good coach,
because I can relate to people's struggles. I
hadn't thought of it that way. I can relate.
I know what it is like to struggle with weight loss. I
know what it is like to exercise every day, and sweat.
Sweat like nothing before, and see no weight loss at all.
The great thing is, my friends also pointed out that it
looked like my programs were working for me. That is
what killed me. She could see the transformation, but
I couldn't.
So, remember, please be kind to yourself. You may not see
what others see, but your work will pay off. I promise.
We are our own worst enemy, so when you look at yourself,
when you weight yourself, when you work out, be kind and
remember you are doing this to enhance a person who is
already beautiful inside and out.
Regardless, you are a beautiful person. I can see it,
even now. I see it.
I hope you do too.
it's true. I almost gave up. I almost caved.
I took photos of myself after two weeks of
P90X, because someone asked if I had any
before and after shots. I hate the before I
have, and the current isn't much better. I
was so ashamed to even post it, because to me
it doesn't look like I have done anything. Yes,
maybe my stomach is a bit flatter, but when I
looked at the photo I saw nothing but a fat girl.
Yes, a fat girl.
I got so upset, thought to myself: how can I be
a fitness coach when I don't even look like I
work out?
How am I supposed to inspire anyone?
I blogged on another site, just to vent and get it
out of me. My lovely friends there supported me,
pointed out that is what makes me a good coach,
because I can relate to people's struggles. I
hadn't thought of it that way. I can relate.
I know what it is like to struggle with weight loss. I
know what it is like to exercise every day, and sweat.
Sweat like nothing before, and see no weight loss at all.
The great thing is, my friends also pointed out that it
looked like my programs were working for me. That is
what killed me. She could see the transformation, but
I couldn't.
So, remember, please be kind to yourself. You may not see
what others see, but your work will pay off. I promise.
We are our own worst enemy, so when you look at yourself,
when you weight yourself, when you work out, be kind and
remember you are doing this to enhance a person who is
already beautiful inside and out.
Regardless, you are a beautiful person. I can see it,
even now. I see it.
I hope you do too.
Thursday, July 9, 2009
It's been hard being motivated lately.
I'll admit it.
Motivation is something that takes
well, motivation. And right now, I
just don't have any sort of motivation.
Period.
I'm having a crisis of faith, my friends.
I am having doubts that I can even be
effective as a blogger.
Yes, I'm even doubting my blogging skills.
Why have I suddenly been plagued by this
self-doubt and lack of motivation? It is
very simple.....
I lack the support system.
Yes, it's true. I lack the support system
I need to get my booty out on the dance
floor and shaking my groove thang to the
shamefully quiet background music of my
beloved P90X (did you know you can actually
turn the sound OFF on these dvds? Unheard of).
I don't have really anyone here to say get
off your bum, lazy, and do the workout. I
can't believe you still haven't worked out,
what is wrong with you?
I need a drill sargent.
Do you?
I think this is why so many of us do tend to
let go of our programs, because there really
isn't a need to.
When no one is watching, they can't see us
goof off....
So what is a girl to do?
Well, you can help me, and I can help you.
How about that?
We can keep each other honest and motivated.
We can keep each other inspired to continue.
We can keep each other from goofing off.
How does that sound?
And I know exactly how we can do it too. You
see, there is this forum on Team Beachbody that
actually *allows* you schedule work outs
together
and keep in contact with your work out buddies
to make sure that they are exercising and being
good.
PLUS
With every work out you register in real time in the
Super Gym, you get entered into that day's contest to
win great prizes and cash rewards, up to $1,000.
Could you use a $1,000? I could.
PLUS
Team Beachbody members can save 10% on all purchases at
Beachbody.
How cool is that?
So here's the link to Team Beachbody.
I hope that you will join my work out buddies, because
seriously,
I need help. I can't get motivated.
Can you please help me?
I'll admit it.
Motivation is something that takes
well, motivation. And right now, I
just don't have any sort of motivation.
Period.
I'm having a crisis of faith, my friends.
I am having doubts that I can even be
effective as a blogger.
Yes, I'm even doubting my blogging skills.
Why have I suddenly been plagued by this
self-doubt and lack of motivation? It is
very simple.....
I lack the support system.
Yes, it's true. I lack the support system
I need to get my booty out on the dance
floor and shaking my groove thang to the
shamefully quiet background music of my
beloved P90X (did you know you can actually
turn the sound OFF on these dvds? Unheard of).
I don't have really anyone here to say get
off your bum, lazy, and do the workout. I
can't believe you still haven't worked out,
what is wrong with you?
I need a drill sargent.
Do you?
I think this is why so many of us do tend to
let go of our programs, because there really
isn't a need to.
When no one is watching, they can't see us
goof off....
So what is a girl to do?
Well, you can help me, and I can help you.
How about that?
We can keep each other honest and motivated.
We can keep each other inspired to continue.
We can keep each other from goofing off.
How does that sound?
And I know exactly how we can do it too. You
see, there is this forum on Team Beachbody that
actually *allows* you schedule work outs
together
and keep in contact with your work out buddies
to make sure that they are exercising and being
good.
PLUS
With every work out you register in real time in the
Super Gym, you get entered into that day's contest to
win great prizes and cash rewards, up to $1,000.
Could you use a $1,000? I could.
PLUS
Team Beachbody members can save 10% on all purchases at
Beachbody.
How cool is that?
So here's the link to Team Beachbody.
I hope that you will join my work out buddies, because
seriously,
I need help. I can't get motivated.
Can you please help me?
Monday, June 29, 2009
Brought it!!! Day 1...
I've decided to venture into the realm of extreme. Yes that's right, I'm using P90X to get fit. I've incorporated it and Yoga Booty Ballet into my regiment, because I need to get strong and fit. There's just no question, I have to get fit and strong, or my body isn't going to forgive me.
I went to the chiropractor today, and the news was good. Better than I had anticipated. About three years ago I was given the degenerative disc disease diagnosis, as my L5 S1 vertebrae was decaying. Not a huge thing. We all have some degree of decay over time, just not in the early 30s. Mine was a combination effort of falling down some stairs and many years of playing sports. Basically, I made myself this way and now I have to fix it.
The good news is that my disc isn't as decayed (if at all) as I was once told. It is actually pinched and bulging, because my sacrum (tailbone) is actually twisted. All this time, I've been in so much pain, because of a twisted tailbone. Its a relatively easy fix.
But here's the kicker: My tailbone curves out more than it should (according to my chiropractor it's common in women, because...) because I don't have strong abdominals. I wanted to melt.
Me? Not have strong abs? After all the crunches and core work I do?
Apparently, I haven't done enough or done them properly.
My pinched disc can be alleviated by doing crunches.
UGH!! The indignity of it all...
So, basically, my chiropractor told me I had to work out. HAD TO. And I had to do crunches to strengthen my abs so I could pull my tailbone in. HAD TO!!!
Well, if there was ever a time to begin P90X, it would be now, since I HAVE TO. Not that I wasn't going to, I just now have a prescription for it.
For those of you who don't know about P90X, it's Beachbody's latest fitness program, created by Tony Horton, and it incorporates various exercises to keep you from reaching a plateau, while creating muscle confusion to keep the body engaged. The program consists of 12 different dvds which you use in a set pattern for 90 days. You don't do the same program over and over, and you don't do the same set of dvds for more than a couple of weeks. This helps keep the body invigorated to work hard and build muscle.
What many don't know is that P90X actually comes with three different ways you can use the dvds. There is P90X lean, that helps burn off more fat while building muscle. It has more cardio than the other programs, classic P90X which is a program designed to totally rip up the muscles and created a very lean body and P90X doubles for those who want a bit more cardio for either weight loss and/or performance.
This isn't for the timid.
There were moments when I thought, I must totally be off my rocker for doing this, but as I continued, sweating profusely, I thought about my back and how if I didn't do something now, I could end up unable to walk one day.
Do I really want to look back and think, man, I wish I would have done more, while I'm sitting in a wheel chair or standing behind a walker?
If I can keep this demon at bay, why shouldn't I continue? Why shouldn't I bring it?
So I brought it.
And I hope you do to, because, believe me, you won't regret it.
Go extreme! Bring it with P90X!
P.S. Don't forget to sign up for Team Beachbody! Join for free and work out with me! You could win up to $1,000 just for working out with WOWY in the Team Beachbody community.
I could use $1,000, how about you? Sign up today!
I went to the chiropractor today, and the news was good. Better than I had anticipated. About three years ago I was given the degenerative disc disease diagnosis, as my L5 S1 vertebrae was decaying. Not a huge thing. We all have some degree of decay over time, just not in the early 30s. Mine was a combination effort of falling down some stairs and many years of playing sports. Basically, I made myself this way and now I have to fix it.
The good news is that my disc isn't as decayed (if at all) as I was once told. It is actually pinched and bulging, because my sacrum (tailbone) is actually twisted. All this time, I've been in so much pain, because of a twisted tailbone. Its a relatively easy fix.
But here's the kicker: My tailbone curves out more than it should (according to my chiropractor it's common in women, because...) because I don't have strong abdominals. I wanted to melt.
Me? Not have strong abs? After all the crunches and core work I do?
Apparently, I haven't done enough or done them properly.
My pinched disc can be alleviated by doing crunches.
UGH!! The indignity of it all...
So, basically, my chiropractor told me I had to work out. HAD TO. And I had to do crunches to strengthen my abs so I could pull my tailbone in. HAD TO!!!
Well, if there was ever a time to begin P90X, it would be now, since I HAVE TO. Not that I wasn't going to, I just now have a prescription for it.
For those of you who don't know about P90X, it's Beachbody's latest fitness program, created by Tony Horton, and it incorporates various exercises to keep you from reaching a plateau, while creating muscle confusion to keep the body engaged. The program consists of 12 different dvds which you use in a set pattern for 90 days. You don't do the same program over and over, and you don't do the same set of dvds for more than a couple of weeks. This helps keep the body invigorated to work hard and build muscle.
What many don't know is that P90X actually comes with three different ways you can use the dvds. There is P90X lean, that helps burn off more fat while building muscle. It has more cardio than the other programs, classic P90X which is a program designed to totally rip up the muscles and created a very lean body and P90X doubles for those who want a bit more cardio for either weight loss and/or performance.
This isn't for the timid.
There were moments when I thought, I must totally be off my rocker for doing this, but as I continued, sweating profusely, I thought about my back and how if I didn't do something now, I could end up unable to walk one day.
Do I really want to look back and think, man, I wish I would have done more, while I'm sitting in a wheel chair or standing behind a walker?
If I can keep this demon at bay, why shouldn't I continue? Why shouldn't I bring it?
So I brought it.
And I hope you do to, because, believe me, you won't regret it.
Go extreme! Bring it with P90X!
P.S. Don't forget to sign up for Team Beachbody! Join for free and work out with me! You could win up to $1,000 just for working out with WOWY in the Team Beachbody community.
I could use $1,000, how about you? Sign up today!
Monday, June 22, 2009
Stress? What stress?? I exercise!
Yes, believe it or not, the best stress relief is not a glass of wine, or something that comes to you in pill form, but exercise!
There's that dreaded 'E' word again. Exercise.
There's no getting around it. Exercise not only keeps you physically fit, but mentally and emotionally fit as well. Research has shown that just 20 minutes of exercise a day, this includes house cleaning, walking around the local shopping center, or doing a fitness program like the fabulous ones over at Beachbody, can improve your mental health dramatically.
Basically, going for a walk or a run is your way of telling your body and mind: "Hey, I'm worth taking care of. I'm important enough to be maintained. I should be maintained. I am well-maintained and cared for!" This can lead to a more positive attitude, a better self-image and more self-confidence.
Oh, but who needs all that?
Who really cares about good self-image, or strong self-confidence, or having a firm connection between body and mind?
Who really needs to have a better night's sleep, or improved memory?
Who really needs better muscle tone for better posture?
Who really needs better blood flow to their brains for better circulation and brain chemistry?
Sorry to say, but we all do!
Just exercising 20 minutes a day can increase and better your daily functions. Just 20 minutes! So why aren't you getting out there and doing it?
Those are all excuses, and you know it. No time, no energy, I have family. What you have is a failure to get creative. Make exercise fun by including your family. Instead of going to a restaurant, go to the park, plan a picnic, then partake in the beauty of nature as you walk around the park with your family.
Instead of driving through the local fast food restaurant, plan and cook a meal together, and go for a walk afterwards, discussing the day's event. Include working out as part of the dinner table bonding.
Invite your kids to work out with you, as you are doing a fitness program, like Turbo Jam or Hip Hop Abs. Many Beachbody customers find that their children enjoy the programs as much as they do! Not only are you spending time with your family, but inviting your children to exercising with means a healthier future for them as well.
Aren't your children worth it?
And if you are completely pressed for time, there are programs designed to help you get fit and in shape in the space of 10 minutes! Tony Horton has a great 10 minute trainer program which can help those strapped for time get fit.
There really are no excuses. It's worth it to you and your health to get out there and get motoring. Just think of all the positive things that come from exercising. They completely out weigh the bad!
Join the Beachbody Revolution!
There's that dreaded 'E' word again. Exercise.
There's no getting around it. Exercise not only keeps you physically fit, but mentally and emotionally fit as well. Research has shown that just 20 minutes of exercise a day, this includes house cleaning, walking around the local shopping center, or doing a fitness program like the fabulous ones over at Beachbody, can improve your mental health dramatically.
Basically, going for a walk or a run is your way of telling your body and mind: "Hey, I'm worth taking care of. I'm important enough to be maintained. I should be maintained. I am well-maintained and cared for!" This can lead to a more positive attitude, a better self-image and more self-confidence.
Oh, but who needs all that?
Who really cares about good self-image, or strong self-confidence, or having a firm connection between body and mind?
Who really needs to have a better night's sleep, or improved memory?
Who really needs better muscle tone for better posture?
Who really needs better blood flow to their brains for better circulation and brain chemistry?
Sorry to say, but we all do!
Just exercising 20 minutes a day can increase and better your daily functions. Just 20 minutes! So why aren't you getting out there and doing it?
Those are all excuses, and you know it. No time, no energy, I have family. What you have is a failure to get creative. Make exercise fun by including your family. Instead of going to a restaurant, go to the park, plan a picnic, then partake in the beauty of nature as you walk around the park with your family.
Instead of driving through the local fast food restaurant, plan and cook a meal together, and go for a walk afterwards, discussing the day's event. Include working out as part of the dinner table bonding.
Invite your kids to work out with you, as you are doing a fitness program, like Turbo Jam or Hip Hop Abs. Many Beachbody customers find that their children enjoy the programs as much as they do! Not only are you spending time with your family, but inviting your children to exercising with means a healthier future for them as well.
Aren't your children worth it?
And if you are completely pressed for time, there are programs designed to help you get fit and in shape in the space of 10 minutes! Tony Horton has a great 10 minute trainer program which can help those strapped for time get fit.
There really are no excuses. It's worth it to you and your health to get out there and get motoring. Just think of all the positive things that come from exercising. They completely out weigh the bad!
Join the Beachbody Revolution!
Friday, June 19, 2009
Need something to read???
Hey guys, if you're looking for some good, informative health articles, check out my work on eHow.com.
Don't worry if you don't see anything that can benefit you right now. There's many more coming!
Carolyn's eHow Page
Don't worry if you don't see anything that can benefit you right now. There's many more coming!
Carolyn's eHow Page
Monday, June 15, 2009
Do you need help?
At some point, everyone needs a little help. The Beatles even wrote a song about it; yet so many people are scared to ask for help. Myself, included. It seems so much easier to plug through, shouldering the burden of life without drawing attention to what you are doing. I don't know if it is fear, shame, guilt, a combination, or something completely different, but the fact of the matter is most people are afraid to ask for help.
Even when it comes to exercising. Everyone thinks that they can exercise on their own and get the results they want. While there are exceptions, not everyone is that disciplined. If you are, congratulations, you're step ahead of the curve. But for most people, you need a helping hand. Someone to guide you and assist you through the massive amounts of information out there.
Guess what?
I can help.
As a Beachbody fitness coach (and soon to be a NESTA certified weight management and lifestyle coach), I can help you find the program that is right for you, guide through the oceans of information available, inspire and motivate you through scheduled work out dates, and be your support through everything, even the tough times during every day life that can ruin a fitness program.
Beachbody offers many great programs, like Turbo Jam, P90X, Hip Hop Abs, Yoga Booty Ballet and Slim in 6. We have programs for children and seniors, for individuals with medical conditions like diabetes, and individuals with common aches and pains. If you have a need, Beachbody has a program for it.
Beachbody also offers great supplements to help with your weight loss or muscle building programs. Shakeology is a meal replacement that is filled to the rim with antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, and nutrients to help you be healthy and lose weight.
Its all right if you need help. We all need a little help from our friends sometimes.
If you need some fitness help, just know that I am here. I can help!
Join the Beachbody Revolution!
Even when it comes to exercising. Everyone thinks that they can exercise on their own and get the results they want. While there are exceptions, not everyone is that disciplined. If you are, congratulations, you're step ahead of the curve. But for most people, you need a helping hand. Someone to guide you and assist you through the massive amounts of information out there.
Guess what?
I can help.
As a Beachbody fitness coach (and soon to be a NESTA certified weight management and lifestyle coach), I can help you find the program that is right for you, guide through the oceans of information available, inspire and motivate you through scheduled work out dates, and be your support through everything, even the tough times during every day life that can ruin a fitness program.
Beachbody offers many great programs, like Turbo Jam, P90X, Hip Hop Abs, Yoga Booty Ballet and Slim in 6. We have programs for children and seniors, for individuals with medical conditions like diabetes, and individuals with common aches and pains. If you have a need, Beachbody has a program for it.
Beachbody also offers great supplements to help with your weight loss or muscle building programs. Shakeology is a meal replacement that is filled to the rim with antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, and nutrients to help you be healthy and lose weight.
Its all right if you need help. We all need a little help from our friends sometimes.
If you need some fitness help, just know that I am here. I can help!
Join the Beachbody Revolution!
Tuesday, June 9, 2009
The weight of emotions
I've been doing a lot of thinking on emotions and weight gain lately. While I'm still formulating thoughts on it, I am nonetheless convinced that emotions are one of the greatest factors in weight gain. Whether it be overeating to numb the pain of emotional upheaval or being emotionally thwarted in every day life that causes the subconscious to store fat as a means of insulating from pain, there is a strong connection between emotions and weight.
At least, I know that is the case with me.
I began to think back to when I started gaining weight, and it was linked to a time when I was emotionally vulnerable. I had been in a terrible relationship, in which I was more invested than the significant party than they were with me, and I was just emotionally raw for years afterwards. It was then that I started putting on weight. In fact, I remember the offensive party actually pointing out to me one evening that it looked like I was putting on weight (at the time I was a size 4) and I needed to start hitting the gym.
I think at that moment I realized that no matter what, I would never be enough for this person. That's when I began to insulate myself. If they didn't want a chubby girlfriend, then that's what I would become, unconsciously. Unfortunately, I just never stopped insulating. I was too pained to stop. I kept adding more and more weight to keep all men at bay, then I wouldn't need to feel anything anymore.
Six years later, I'm finally tired of insulating myself from the world, because I am missing so much.
This is one of the reasons I started working out again, because I wanted to feel beautiful for myself, not because of a guy, or some event. Those are momentary fixes, and while they do have a place (believe me, I get the 'I need to lose five pounds to get into this dress' thought and there's nothing wrong with that), when it comes to a bigger transformation, it should be about you, not something external to you.
If you are losing weight because you think it will make someone else happy, then you are setting yourself up to fail. Weight loss and body transformations should be about you, it should be a decision that you make for yourself and by yourself. Someone (other than a physician) telling you to lose weight will just leave you emotionally dissatisfied and forced into weight loss.
Honestly, if someone you loved told you you need to lose weight and you started working out because of it, how much would you resent them while you're pounding away on the treadmill or weights and they're nowhere to be seen? The thought of them saying to lose weight can eat away at you and cause you to self-destruct, ruining your work outs and your diet.
Your health is your responsibility and no one else should tell you any different, unless they are a physician.
So, even though the significant party and I have somewhat amended the turmoil between the two of us, there is still that part of me that is still hurting from the things said to me. I still remember that night when my weight was called into question. I still remember the feeling of not being enough, when I know that I'm way too much for him.
It is time. I'm going to lose this weight, because I'm tired of carrying around that time of my life with me. its a constant reminder of the turmoil, of the pain, of the insecurities I don't want anymore. I carry it around in the form of cellulite and excess weight. When I get rid of the emotional weight, the physical weight will follow.
Then I can formulate new and exciting relationships and not feel vulnerable due to the weight of yesteryear weighing me down.
Join me in the Beachbody Revolution!!
At least, I know that is the case with me.
I began to think back to when I started gaining weight, and it was linked to a time when I was emotionally vulnerable. I had been in a terrible relationship, in which I was more invested than the significant party than they were with me, and I was just emotionally raw for years afterwards. It was then that I started putting on weight. In fact, I remember the offensive party actually pointing out to me one evening that it looked like I was putting on weight (at the time I was a size 4) and I needed to start hitting the gym.
I think at that moment I realized that no matter what, I would never be enough for this person. That's when I began to insulate myself. If they didn't want a chubby girlfriend, then that's what I would become, unconsciously. Unfortunately, I just never stopped insulating. I was too pained to stop. I kept adding more and more weight to keep all men at bay, then I wouldn't need to feel anything anymore.
Six years later, I'm finally tired of insulating myself from the world, because I am missing so much.
This is one of the reasons I started working out again, because I wanted to feel beautiful for myself, not because of a guy, or some event. Those are momentary fixes, and while they do have a place (believe me, I get the 'I need to lose five pounds to get into this dress' thought and there's nothing wrong with that), when it comes to a bigger transformation, it should be about you, not something external to you.
If you are losing weight because you think it will make someone else happy, then you are setting yourself up to fail. Weight loss and body transformations should be about you, it should be a decision that you make for yourself and by yourself. Someone (other than a physician) telling you to lose weight will just leave you emotionally dissatisfied and forced into weight loss.
Honestly, if someone you loved told you you need to lose weight and you started working out because of it, how much would you resent them while you're pounding away on the treadmill or weights and they're nowhere to be seen? The thought of them saying to lose weight can eat away at you and cause you to self-destruct, ruining your work outs and your diet.
Your health is your responsibility and no one else should tell you any different, unless they are a physician.
So, even though the significant party and I have somewhat amended the turmoil between the two of us, there is still that part of me that is still hurting from the things said to me. I still remember that night when my weight was called into question. I still remember the feeling of not being enough, when I know that I'm way too much for him.
It is time. I'm going to lose this weight, because I'm tired of carrying around that time of my life with me. its a constant reminder of the turmoil, of the pain, of the insecurities I don't want anymore. I carry it around in the form of cellulite and excess weight. When I get rid of the emotional weight, the physical weight will follow.
Then I can formulate new and exciting relationships and not feel vulnerable due to the weight of yesteryear weighing me down.
Join me in the Beachbody Revolution!!
Monday, June 1, 2009
A moment of silence
This last week has been quite difficult for me, more than I thought, exactly. In fact, it has been so mentally draining, I fear that I have made myself sick.
Is there anything that horrible that can make a person sick by their own accord?
Yes.
I'm proof.
I didn't know that I would feel so sad about the situation, I was positive that I would feel a sense of closure when it happened, but alas, I did not. So what was distressing? They sold my grandparent's house. Not a huge deal, really. At least, I didn't think it would be, but it hit me harder than I thought.
It began about two weeks ago, when I started having dreams. Every night, I would be in their house, I would see them. In some capacity, their house, my old street, appeared in my dreams. It was enough to drive a person mad.
Last week they sold the house.
Last week, I had to face reality. There was no going back. It was over. My childhood was officially over, locked up in a cardboard box with scraps of paper and bent photographs.
Sitting this weekend, along my feelings, I thought long and hard about my grandmother. I remembered I still had the last birthday card she gave me, two weeks before she passed. I remembered my grandfather smoking more and more, as if trying to get to her faster. I remembered the suitcase full of dreams my grandmother stored away in the shop, in an effort to pale them away. To allow them to rot away, without anyone noticing.
But I noticed.
I also noticed that their lives were cut short by smoking. I noticed how they grew more and more decrepit with each passing year, begging them at Christmas to give me one gift: give up smoking. I tried to get my grandmother out walking, but it would last a day or two, and then it would be 'too hot' or she was 'too busy.' There was always something.
Though my grandparents are gone, they did leave me something very valuable. No, it wasn't some rare antique, or a nice sum of cash. Those wouldn't have mattered anyway. No, what they left me was much more precious and priceless. They left me the appreciation of health and the zest for life.
They gave me the knowledge that I didn't want to live as they did. If anything, they taught by example.
So even though I've been sick with sadness, I was reminded of a few things during this time that I needed to hear.
I thought back to the suitcase, and remembered that dreams are worth pursuing, despite what anyone has to say. If it's your dream, seek it. Seek it until you obtain it.
I thought back to the grapevine in their backyard, the one I feared may be removed, and remembered, life takes patience before the grapes can be picked. It takes years for a vine to grow to a point where the grapes are ready for picking. The vine in their yard was thick and lively, producing so many grapes that we could never pick them fast enough. Opportunities, much like grapevines, will produce when you give them room to grow and when they are allowed to grow, they produce more than you could ever conceive.
I thought back to the cartons of cigarettes I have seen my grandparents smoke over the years, and I remembered, it was their choice. It was their choice to smoke, their choice not to quit. No matter what I said or did, I can't change anyone, I can only help when they are ready to change. I had placed too much importance on me changing them, and didn't realize their actions actually changed me.
I thought back to my grandmother's funeral, how she held my hand in her hospital bed. She was so frail and sick, and I was so alive. Yet there was nothing I could do. She decided it was time to go, time to resign herself to the path she choose. I resigned myself too. I resigned myself to doing everything I ever wanted, no matter how crazy or absurd or preposterous. I didn't want to leave this place knowing I hadn't done something because I was afraid to change.
I thought back over all these things, and realized that this sad path had led me right to where I needed to be. Concentrating on who I am, where I'm going, and how I treat myself. I may have just started on the path that will get me to my true self, but at least I'm on it. There is always time to change, because, everyday, in every way, I am getting better and better.
In the darkness of my self-evaluation, I heard a voice that calmed me. A thought deep within speaking to me and only to me. I heard my grandmother's voice saying that she was proud that I had learned so much from her mistakes. That's when I knew, I was right where I needed to be.
I knew that my recent re-interest in health and fitness, spurned by the passing of my grandfather two months ago, and my own health issues was where everyone and everything was guiding me. While it was not a comfortable journey, it was one I needed to take, and still take. There's still more I need to work on, but through exercise and self-evaluation, I shall cross that road too, and come out on the other side better for it.
Many don't think of exercise in this capacity, but while exercise is great for dieting, it is also the best way to alleviate anxiety, stress, and emotional turmoil.
Sometime exercise can be the best therapy out there.
Is there anything that horrible that can make a person sick by their own accord?
Yes.
I'm proof.
I didn't know that I would feel so sad about the situation, I was positive that I would feel a sense of closure when it happened, but alas, I did not. So what was distressing? They sold my grandparent's house. Not a huge deal, really. At least, I didn't think it would be, but it hit me harder than I thought.
It began about two weeks ago, when I started having dreams. Every night, I would be in their house, I would see them. In some capacity, their house, my old street, appeared in my dreams. It was enough to drive a person mad.
Last week they sold the house.
Last week, I had to face reality. There was no going back. It was over. My childhood was officially over, locked up in a cardboard box with scraps of paper and bent photographs.
Sitting this weekend, along my feelings, I thought long and hard about my grandmother. I remembered I still had the last birthday card she gave me, two weeks before she passed. I remembered my grandfather smoking more and more, as if trying to get to her faster. I remembered the suitcase full of dreams my grandmother stored away in the shop, in an effort to pale them away. To allow them to rot away, without anyone noticing.
But I noticed.
I also noticed that their lives were cut short by smoking. I noticed how they grew more and more decrepit with each passing year, begging them at Christmas to give me one gift: give up smoking. I tried to get my grandmother out walking, but it would last a day or two, and then it would be 'too hot' or she was 'too busy.' There was always something.
Though my grandparents are gone, they did leave me something very valuable. No, it wasn't some rare antique, or a nice sum of cash. Those wouldn't have mattered anyway. No, what they left me was much more precious and priceless. They left me the appreciation of health and the zest for life.
They gave me the knowledge that I didn't want to live as they did. If anything, they taught by example.
So even though I've been sick with sadness, I was reminded of a few things during this time that I needed to hear.
I thought back to the suitcase, and remembered that dreams are worth pursuing, despite what anyone has to say. If it's your dream, seek it. Seek it until you obtain it.
I thought back to the grapevine in their backyard, the one I feared may be removed, and remembered, life takes patience before the grapes can be picked. It takes years for a vine to grow to a point where the grapes are ready for picking. The vine in their yard was thick and lively, producing so many grapes that we could never pick them fast enough. Opportunities, much like grapevines, will produce when you give them room to grow and when they are allowed to grow, they produce more than you could ever conceive.
I thought back to the cartons of cigarettes I have seen my grandparents smoke over the years, and I remembered, it was their choice. It was their choice to smoke, their choice not to quit. No matter what I said or did, I can't change anyone, I can only help when they are ready to change. I had placed too much importance on me changing them, and didn't realize their actions actually changed me.
I thought back to my grandmother's funeral, how she held my hand in her hospital bed. She was so frail and sick, and I was so alive. Yet there was nothing I could do. She decided it was time to go, time to resign herself to the path she choose. I resigned myself too. I resigned myself to doing everything I ever wanted, no matter how crazy or absurd or preposterous. I didn't want to leave this place knowing I hadn't done something because I was afraid to change.
I thought back over all these things, and realized that this sad path had led me right to where I needed to be. Concentrating on who I am, where I'm going, and how I treat myself. I may have just started on the path that will get me to my true self, but at least I'm on it. There is always time to change, because, everyday, in every way, I am getting better and better.
In the darkness of my self-evaluation, I heard a voice that calmed me. A thought deep within speaking to me and only to me. I heard my grandmother's voice saying that she was proud that I had learned so much from her mistakes. That's when I knew, I was right where I needed to be.
I knew that my recent re-interest in health and fitness, spurned by the passing of my grandfather two months ago, and my own health issues was where everyone and everything was guiding me. While it was not a comfortable journey, it was one I needed to take, and still take. There's still more I need to work on, but through exercise and self-evaluation, I shall cross that road too, and come out on the other side better for it.
Many don't think of exercise in this capacity, but while exercise is great for dieting, it is also the best way to alleviate anxiety, stress, and emotional turmoil.
Sometime exercise can be the best therapy out there.
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
Do you want to be one in 66 million?
Currently there are over 66 million Americans who are classified as obese.
Do you want to be one in 66 million?
How much is your health worth to you?
Is it worth 30 minutes a day?
Is it worth an additional five years with your family and friends? Another ten?
Think about it.
How much is your life worth to you?
In 2007, the New England Journal of Medicine reported that individuals concerned about their excessive weight gain should look to their inner circle for clues. "The study showed that obesity spreads within social networks and that the closer the social connection — even if people live in different households many miles apart — the greater the influence on developing obesity," (Christakis and Fowler, 2007).
According to an article by the National Institute of Health, findings include:
-A key participant’s chances of becoming obese increased by 57 percent if he or she had a close friend who became obese.
-In same-sex friendships, a close friend becoming obese increased a key participant’s chance of becoming obese by 71 percent. However, no such association was found in opposite-sex friendships.
-The perception of friendship also was an important factor. When two people identified each other as close friends, the key participant’s risk of becoming obese increased by 171 percent if his or her friend became obese. In contrast, a key participant was not likely to become obese if someone claimed a close friendship with him or her but the key participant did not report the friendship.
-Among pairs of siblings, one’s becoming obese increased the other’s chance of becoming obese by 40 percent. This finding was more marked among same-sex siblings than opposite-sex siblings.
-In married couples, one spouse’s becoming obese increased the likelihood of the other spouse becoming obese by 37 percent. Husbands and wives appeared to affect each other equally.
-Obesity spread across social ties, despite geographic distance from one person to another. Further, social distance — the degree of social separation between two people in the network — appeared to make more of a difference than geographic distance in the spread of behaviors and norms associated with obesity.
-An immediate neighbor’s becoming obese did not affect a person’s risk of becoming obese.
-Smoking behavior was not associated with the spread of obesity from person to person.
While this may be troubling news, there is good news as well. Inner circles can influence weight, yes, this is true; however, just as they can be a factor in weight gain, they can also be a factor in weight loss!
Creating a strong, focused support network devoted to weight loss and good health can slowly reverse the increasing numbers of overweight Americans.
How many are taking their health into their own hands?
Many dieters fail because they approach weight loss with the wrong attitude. Looking for a quick fix with dieting pills or fad diets may give you immediate results, but they will not help maintain a healthy weight. While some individuals may need medical assistance, surgery should always be considered an absolute last resort, unless directed by your physician.
The average American's weight loss can be managed through proper diet and exercise; however, in today's society of instant gratification, everyone is looking for that quick fix.
Sorry, it just isn't out there. But, solid diet and exercise programs are available, which can not only change your body, but your mental outlook too.
First, you have to begin with a support group. Building a strong foundation can help individuals maintain their proper, balanced diets, maintain their work out programs, and seek healthy alternatives which will benefit their goals, not destroy them.
Secondly, step up a schedule that you can follow, until the program becomes routine. Research shows that forming a new habit takes at least 21 days, so set a schedule for your new program that consists of 21 days. This will help re-train your mind to include healthy eating and exercise.
Third, time. Yes, it will take time to loss the weight, depending on how much you have to lose. I have a friend who told me it took him three years to lose the weight he desired, but he kept at it, kept working out, because it was important to him to get his health and fitness in shape. This is where your support system will be essential. In times when you are feeling in doubt about your weight loss, they can help keep you motivated.
When you decide (and I do hope that you decide to get fit and take care of your health) to get fit, develop a support system. Enlist your friends, family members, co-workers, associates, anyone you know to join you to get fit. This will help keep you and your network accountable for exercising. People join people, so the more people you have joining you, the more responsibility you feel to meet goals and help keep you motivated.
Local groups may have networks built for a specific audience, like new moms or seniors, which you can join. Gyms may offer groups as well. Health and Wellness companies, like Beachbody, offer online fitness coaches and team forums to help keep you motivated to your goals and inspire you to keep moving forward.
However you go, developing a network will help you reach your goals.
It is true that your inner circle is indicative of your fitness; however, you do have a choice as to what that fitness is.
Join the Revolution!
Reference:
Christakis, N.A., and Fowler, J.H. The spread of obesity in a large social network over 32 years. New England Journal of Medicine (2007), 357(4):370-379.
Farrer, Susan. New NIH-Supported Study Characterizes Social Networks of Family, Friends Influencing Obesity. National Institute of Health (2007). Retrieved on May 27, 2009 from http://www.nih.gov/news/pr/jul2007/nia-25.htm
Do you want to be one in 66 million?
How much is your health worth to you?
Is it worth 30 minutes a day?
Is it worth an additional five years with your family and friends? Another ten?
Think about it.
How much is your life worth to you?
In 2007, the New England Journal of Medicine reported that individuals concerned about their excessive weight gain should look to their inner circle for clues. "The study showed that obesity spreads within social networks and that the closer the social connection — even if people live in different households many miles apart — the greater the influence on developing obesity," (Christakis and Fowler, 2007).
According to an article by the National Institute of Health, findings include:
-A key participant’s chances of becoming obese increased by 57 percent if he or she had a close friend who became obese.
-In same-sex friendships, a close friend becoming obese increased a key participant’s chance of becoming obese by 71 percent. However, no such association was found in opposite-sex friendships.
-The perception of friendship also was an important factor. When two people identified each other as close friends, the key participant’s risk of becoming obese increased by 171 percent if his or her friend became obese. In contrast, a key participant was not likely to become obese if someone claimed a close friendship with him or her but the key participant did not report the friendship.
-Among pairs of siblings, one’s becoming obese increased the other’s chance of becoming obese by 40 percent. This finding was more marked among same-sex siblings than opposite-sex siblings.
-In married couples, one spouse’s becoming obese increased the likelihood of the other spouse becoming obese by 37 percent. Husbands and wives appeared to affect each other equally.
-Obesity spread across social ties, despite geographic distance from one person to another. Further, social distance — the degree of social separation between two people in the network — appeared to make more of a difference than geographic distance in the spread of behaviors and norms associated with obesity.
-An immediate neighbor’s becoming obese did not affect a person’s risk of becoming obese.
-Smoking behavior was not associated with the spread of obesity from person to person.
While this may be troubling news, there is good news as well. Inner circles can influence weight, yes, this is true; however, just as they can be a factor in weight gain, they can also be a factor in weight loss!
Creating a strong, focused support network devoted to weight loss and good health can slowly reverse the increasing numbers of overweight Americans.
How many are taking their health into their own hands?
Many dieters fail because they approach weight loss with the wrong attitude. Looking for a quick fix with dieting pills or fad diets may give you immediate results, but they will not help maintain a healthy weight. While some individuals may need medical assistance, surgery should always be considered an absolute last resort, unless directed by your physician.
The average American's weight loss can be managed through proper diet and exercise; however, in today's society of instant gratification, everyone is looking for that quick fix.
Sorry, it just isn't out there. But, solid diet and exercise programs are available, which can not only change your body, but your mental outlook too.
First, you have to begin with a support group. Building a strong foundation can help individuals maintain their proper, balanced diets, maintain their work out programs, and seek healthy alternatives which will benefit their goals, not destroy them.
Secondly, step up a schedule that you can follow, until the program becomes routine. Research shows that forming a new habit takes at least 21 days, so set a schedule for your new program that consists of 21 days. This will help re-train your mind to include healthy eating and exercise.
Third, time. Yes, it will take time to loss the weight, depending on how much you have to lose. I have a friend who told me it took him three years to lose the weight he desired, but he kept at it, kept working out, because it was important to him to get his health and fitness in shape. This is where your support system will be essential. In times when you are feeling in doubt about your weight loss, they can help keep you motivated.
When you decide (and I do hope that you decide to get fit and take care of your health) to get fit, develop a support system. Enlist your friends, family members, co-workers, associates, anyone you know to join you to get fit. This will help keep you and your network accountable for exercising. People join people, so the more people you have joining you, the more responsibility you feel to meet goals and help keep you motivated.
Local groups may have networks built for a specific audience, like new moms or seniors, which you can join. Gyms may offer groups as well. Health and Wellness companies, like Beachbody, offer online fitness coaches and team forums to help keep you motivated to your goals and inspire you to keep moving forward.
However you go, developing a network will help you reach your goals.
It is true that your inner circle is indicative of your fitness; however, you do have a choice as to what that fitness is.
Join the Revolution!
Reference:
Christakis, N.A., and Fowler, J.H. The spread of obesity in a large social network over 32 years. New England Journal of Medicine (2007), 357(4):370-379.
Farrer, Susan. New NIH-Supported Study Characterizes Social Networks of Family, Friends Influencing Obesity. National Institute of Health (2007). Retrieved on May 27, 2009 from http://www.nih.gov/news/pr/jul2007/nia-25.htm
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
A prick of the finger
I went to the doctor today, not expecting the reception I received. Imagine my surprise when she did just that. I have watched those medical shows where the doctors dismiss a crazed mother of a newborn when she complains that there is something wrong with her child, only to discover years later, she had been correct all along and the doctors ignored her. In defense of doctors, I understand it is a subjective thing when someone walks in and tells a story which could or couldn't be a certain illness. Suddenly, it becomes a story of 'you must believe me.' Unfortunately, in certain cases, patients have to be resilient and persistent.
I plan to be so.
From my previous post, I spoke about an "attack" I had, a case of the "vapors," a "spell" if you will. Basically, my blood sugar went way too low and my body reacted poorly, as any body would. So I went to my doctor today, and she immediately dismissed my claims. Yes, dismissed. She asked, do you think it could have been the fumes in the salon?
Fumes do not cause what I went through, unless I was breathing in some sort of neurotoxin, of which case, that would be the end of my story. I simply wouldn't be here to tell it.
I told her about the family history, how this was something that has plagued me most of my life, but just enough that I notice it happening more. Finally, I had convinced her to at least let me monitor my blood sugar for a month and then come back. Then I could have evidence. Then she would see. I'm not making this up.
Imagine--I now have to be even more conscious of my body and my health, which makes being a part of Beachbody that much more important. Not only do I have excellent exercise programs at my disposal, including a diabetes program by Kathy Smith (should it be discovered that I have diabetes), but I have an excellent nutritional program through the Team Beachbody membership which I can customize to my needs. Plus, I have an entire forum of people who are like me, trying to get healthy, trying to lose weight and trying to do so with different medical conditions.
I've never felt so supported.
Oh, and after one day of testing, my blood sugar has been around 80 mg/l all day, even with a soda (normal is from 70 to 150), though before I ate dinner this evening, it was 62 and that was 2 hours after eating when the sugar levels are suppose to even out.
Gee, do you think I have low blood sugar?
Join the Revolution!
I plan to be so.
From my previous post, I spoke about an "attack" I had, a case of the "vapors," a "spell" if you will. Basically, my blood sugar went way too low and my body reacted poorly, as any body would. So I went to my doctor today, and she immediately dismissed my claims. Yes, dismissed. She asked, do you think it could have been the fumes in the salon?
Fumes do not cause what I went through, unless I was breathing in some sort of neurotoxin, of which case, that would be the end of my story. I simply wouldn't be here to tell it.
I told her about the family history, how this was something that has plagued me most of my life, but just enough that I notice it happening more. Finally, I had convinced her to at least let me monitor my blood sugar for a month and then come back. Then I could have evidence. Then she would see. I'm not making this up.
Imagine--I now have to be even more conscious of my body and my health, which makes being a part of Beachbody that much more important. Not only do I have excellent exercise programs at my disposal, including a diabetes program by Kathy Smith (should it be discovered that I have diabetes), but I have an excellent nutritional program through the Team Beachbody membership which I can customize to my needs. Plus, I have an entire forum of people who are like me, trying to get healthy, trying to lose weight and trying to do so with different medical conditions.
I've never felt so supported.
Oh, and after one day of testing, my blood sugar has been around 80 mg/l all day, even with a soda (normal is from 70 to 150), though before I ate dinner this evening, it was 62 and that was 2 hours after eating when the sugar levels are suppose to even out.
Gee, do you think I have low blood sugar?
Join the Revolution!
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
Skipping out means slipping down
We are all knowledgeable in diets. Many of us have dieted at some point in time. You just cut back food, increase exercise, and voila! You're on your way to fitness! But dieting goes well beyond that. Dieting means you must chose the appropriate foods to properly energize and maintain your system. Choosing the wrong foods, or limiting foods, could result in devastating effects.
While my diet, admittedly, needs work, I'm not starving myself and most likely there's an underlining medical condition, like hypoglycemia or diabetes that I don't know about yet, but I was so fortunate (and said with sticky sarcasm there) to have a "spell" yesterday. That's the only way to explain it, I had a spell. I feel like such a Southern Belle saying that. I got a case of the vapors.
I was at the nail salon when it hit, and thankfully there was a very lovely woman there who knew what she was doing. I started feeling sick to my stomach, and immediately I knew I need to eat, but I had nothing with me. Then the vision started going, right after the hands began to shake violently. Before I knew it, I had cold rags on my neck and forehead, and a very nice lady trying to keep me alert with questions. I really don't remember what happened in those few minutes, but someone gave me a piece of candy and a glass of water. Slowly I started feeling better.
While this is most likely a case of an underlying medical condition, I wanted to tell this story because the same thing can happen someone who isn't eating a proper and balanced diet. Skipping one meal can give anyone these symptoms, so it is of the utmost important that you eat on a regular schedule and not skip a meal. I didn't technically skip a meal, but I went too long with eating something, even a protein bar.
This is why I like Shakeology. Shakeology, while it is a meal replacement, is packed with so many proteins, amino acids, prebiotics, antioxidants, vitamins and minerals that it is perfect to keep blood sugar at a steady, healthy level.
I am feeling better and I do have an appointment with the doctor to get checked out, as this is a problem I have had in the past. I'll let you know how it turns out, but please, try to eat on a regular schedule and make sure you have something on you at all times, in case the blood sugar gets too low.
You can read all about Shakeology and all its goodness on their site.
While my diet, admittedly, needs work, I'm not starving myself and most likely there's an underlining medical condition, like hypoglycemia or diabetes that I don't know about yet, but I was so fortunate (and said with sticky sarcasm there) to have a "spell" yesterday. That's the only way to explain it, I had a spell. I feel like such a Southern Belle saying that. I got a case of the vapors.
I was at the nail salon when it hit, and thankfully there was a very lovely woman there who knew what she was doing. I started feeling sick to my stomach, and immediately I knew I need to eat, but I had nothing with me. Then the vision started going, right after the hands began to shake violently. Before I knew it, I had cold rags on my neck and forehead, and a very nice lady trying to keep me alert with questions. I really don't remember what happened in those few minutes, but someone gave me a piece of candy and a glass of water. Slowly I started feeling better.
While this is most likely a case of an underlying medical condition, I wanted to tell this story because the same thing can happen someone who isn't eating a proper and balanced diet. Skipping one meal can give anyone these symptoms, so it is of the utmost important that you eat on a regular schedule and not skip a meal. I didn't technically skip a meal, but I went too long with eating something, even a protein bar.
This is why I like Shakeology. Shakeology, while it is a meal replacement, is packed with so many proteins, amino acids, prebiotics, antioxidants, vitamins and minerals that it is perfect to keep blood sugar at a steady, healthy level.
I am feeling better and I do have an appointment with the doctor to get checked out, as this is a problem I have had in the past. I'll let you know how it turns out, but please, try to eat on a regular schedule and make sure you have something on you at all times, in case the blood sugar gets too low.
You can read all about Shakeology and all its goodness on their site.
Sunday, May 17, 2009
Find your inner goddess!
The program of my choice: Yoga Booty Ballet. Work out without it feeling like work.
Saturday, May 16, 2009
Don't be stopped!
I'll admit, I've never been one to stick to things, particularly an exercise program. I really need someone there telling me where to go, what to do, how much to work. Its the mentality of a team sports player. You get used to being told what to do, how to do it and not ask questions. It is also this mentality which got me into Beachbody. Their coaching opportunity and their online forums help keep me accountable to my work out. I'm still working on the diet (again, that team sports mentality: I can eat anything and not gain weight. I need to realize I'm not 16 anymore) but the work outs are now habit. In fact, I become quiet cranky if I know that I can't get a work out in. I will arrange my schedule around my work out so that I can make sure I get at least 30 minutes of something in.
30 minutes is better than nothing.
I really need to pump it up to an hour. That may be next month's goal. Start getting up to an hour a day.
I was recently speaking with a friend about working out and I told her that I had lumbospondylosis, which is an arthritic spinal condition and along with it, I have a herniated disc. About three years ago, I bent over to pick something up, and felt a strain across my lower back like nothing I had ever felt before. With minutes, I couldn't feel my two outer toes. Within days, I couldn't feel my foot. After several weeks, I couldn't feel my leg. How I didn't break anything I still don't know, because I was walking around, not feeling the ground below me and not sure if the leg I was walking on was going to give underneath me. Eventually, it got to the point where I was unable to move. I was walking around on a cane. I had to go in for an MRI where I discovered that I had a herniated/bulging disc. And by the look of the MRI, there wasn't much of the disc left.
So I had to stop working out, because, well, I couldn't feel my leg. I eventually went in for cortisone shots, which helped tremendously and really haven't had problems since. Oh sure, my leg will get all pins and needly sometimes, but it usually goes away within an hour or so.
My friend was amazed that I had come from this point where I was walking with a cane to working out every day. I told her that I could very easily sit on my butt and say, I can't do this. But there are people who are in worse conditions than me, and do they say 'I can't do this'? NO! So why should I? Its all about having the will to get up and say I'm not going to be stopped.
I'm not going to be stopped, and I'm not going to stop. That's why I love Yoga Booty Ballet, because it is easy on my joints but gives me a great work out. Believe it or not, I'm dripping with sweat when I get done.
So, no matter what, don't be stopped. You can modify your plans to fit your life, but don't be stopped. Don't ever be stopped. Keep getting off the couch, keep sweating and keep living healthy. Don't we owe it to ourselves to be healthy?
My Beachbody Page
30 minutes is better than nothing.
I really need to pump it up to an hour. That may be next month's goal. Start getting up to an hour a day.
I was recently speaking with a friend about working out and I told her that I had lumbospondylosis, which is an arthritic spinal condition and along with it, I have a herniated disc. About three years ago, I bent over to pick something up, and felt a strain across my lower back like nothing I had ever felt before. With minutes, I couldn't feel my two outer toes. Within days, I couldn't feel my foot. After several weeks, I couldn't feel my leg. How I didn't break anything I still don't know, because I was walking around, not feeling the ground below me and not sure if the leg I was walking on was going to give underneath me. Eventually, it got to the point where I was unable to move. I was walking around on a cane. I had to go in for an MRI where I discovered that I had a herniated/bulging disc. And by the look of the MRI, there wasn't much of the disc left.
So I had to stop working out, because, well, I couldn't feel my leg. I eventually went in for cortisone shots, which helped tremendously and really haven't had problems since. Oh sure, my leg will get all pins and needly sometimes, but it usually goes away within an hour or so.
My friend was amazed that I had come from this point where I was walking with a cane to working out every day. I told her that I could very easily sit on my butt and say, I can't do this. But there are people who are in worse conditions than me, and do they say 'I can't do this'? NO! So why should I? Its all about having the will to get up and say I'm not going to be stopped.
I'm not going to be stopped, and I'm not going to stop. That's why I love Yoga Booty Ballet, because it is easy on my joints but gives me a great work out. Believe it or not, I'm dripping with sweat when I get done.
So, no matter what, don't be stopped. You can modify your plans to fit your life, but don't be stopped. Don't ever be stopped. Keep getting off the couch, keep sweating and keep living healthy. Don't we owe it to ourselves to be healthy?
My Beachbody Page
Beachbody Products
Wonder what Beachbody has to offer, take a quick look at all the great products that are helping millions get in shape and look great!
Thursday, May 14, 2009
Sugar, we're going down...
As I sit down to drink my glass of water, I silently lament the lack of soda in my hand. Yes, it is true. I am a soda addict. There is something so soothing about the taste of that sugery goodness flowing. But it is so bad for you.
Isn't the good stuff always bad for you? It's like bad boys, you know you should stay away, but there's just something...
Anyway, I'm limiting, if not removing all trace of Dr. Pepper from my life. It's nothing personal, Dr. P, I just can't afford the sugar intake anymore. Eventually you would lead me so far down the road of excessive fat and caloric intake, I would end up in a dibetic coma. Okay, so I exaggerate but it could happen.
Do you honestly know how much sugar is really in those sodas you drink? Let's take a look:
It's safe to assume that each of those sugar cubes are equal to 4 grams of sugar. The can of soda has 39 grams of sugar, the 12 oz has 65 grams and the 20 oz has 108 grams. That's how much sugar you are drinking when you enjoy one of those delicious sodas.
For a 2000 calorie diet, a person should not take in more than 40 grams of sugar. You get that in one can of soda. And that's the recommended sugar intake in ONE can. This isn't counting the sugar found naturally in food, which would mean, drinking one can of soda with a balanced diet can push your sugar intake for the day well over the recommended amount.
Excessive sugar is stored within the body as fat, for future consumption. If you are not excerising to a point where excessive sugar converted to fat is quickly used up, it means you are storing fat, creating unwanted weight gain.
From ONE can of soda!
Think of the calories and the fat you can shed if you eliminate that ONE can of soda a day.
Isn't it worth it?
I will admit, I probably won't give up soda altogether. It's like ice cream, every once in a while is fine. A daily habit will kill me, literally.
But I know whenever I sit down to enjoy that soda, that image of sugar cubes will come to my head. Somehow, I'm not sure how much I will enjoy that soda...
Carolyn's Beachbody Site
Isn't the good stuff always bad for you? It's like bad boys, you know you should stay away, but there's just something...
Anyway, I'm limiting, if not removing all trace of Dr. Pepper from my life. It's nothing personal, Dr. P, I just can't afford the sugar intake anymore. Eventually you would lead me so far down the road of excessive fat and caloric intake, I would end up in a dibetic coma. Okay, so I exaggerate but it could happen.
Do you honestly know how much sugar is really in those sodas you drink? Let's take a look:
It's safe to assume that each of those sugar cubes are equal to 4 grams of sugar. The can of soda has 39 grams of sugar, the 12 oz has 65 grams and the 20 oz has 108 grams. That's how much sugar you are drinking when you enjoy one of those delicious sodas.
For a 2000 calorie diet, a person should not take in more than 40 grams of sugar. You get that in one can of soda. And that's the recommended sugar intake in ONE can. This isn't counting the sugar found naturally in food, which would mean, drinking one can of soda with a balanced diet can push your sugar intake for the day well over the recommended amount.
Excessive sugar is stored within the body as fat, for future consumption. If you are not excerising to a point where excessive sugar converted to fat is quickly used up, it means you are storing fat, creating unwanted weight gain.
From ONE can of soda!
Think of the calories and the fat you can shed if you eliminate that ONE can of soda a day.
Isn't it worth it?
I will admit, I probably won't give up soda altogether. It's like ice cream, every once in a while is fine. A daily habit will kill me, literally.
But I know whenever I sit down to enjoy that soda, that image of sugar cubes will come to my head. Somehow, I'm not sure how much I will enjoy that soda...
Carolyn's Beachbody Site
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
Changing times (finally?)
The New York Times reported over the weekend that Congress is going to pass legislation which will promote a healthier lifestyle. Legislation which will allow employers to reward employees for healthy living, healthy diets, and exercising. It would seem that our government and our President is taking the health of our nation seriously.
Are you taking your health seriously? Perhaps it's time you do. I know I am.
We are given this physical body, and much like any of our possessions, it needs to be maintained and cared for. Eating junk and sitting on a couch will cause nothing but havoc on your system. Why not go for a walk, go outside and garden, or push play on an exercise dvd? Just get up and move.
Let's face it, there is no magic cure for obesity or ill health except a balance diet and exercise. If tax cuts is what it takes to get Americans up and moving for better health, then I'm all for it. What the motivation is, I just hope that everyone gets up and takes that first step.
There is nothing better than that first step.
Here's to your health!
Coach Caro's Profile
Are you taking your health seriously? Perhaps it's time you do. I know I am.
We are given this physical body, and much like any of our possessions, it needs to be maintained and cared for. Eating junk and sitting on a couch will cause nothing but havoc on your system. Why not go for a walk, go outside and garden, or push play on an exercise dvd? Just get up and move.
Let's face it, there is no magic cure for obesity or ill health except a balance diet and exercise. If tax cuts is what it takes to get Americans up and moving for better health, then I'm all for it. What the motivation is, I just hope that everyone gets up and takes that first step.
There is nothing better than that first step.
Here's to your health!
Coach Caro's Profile
Sunday, May 10, 2009
Why am I doing this thing called BeachBody?
Honestly, why? When I joined BeachBody, I wasn’t sure I had an answer, other than the fact that I didn’t want to go to work in an office anymore. Oh, sure, losing weight would be nice, and making money? Well, bonus! But, as I grew with this opportunity, I started asking myself seriously, just why am I doing this?
The answer I got was numbing.
It all started long time ago, in a galaxy..wait, that’s not right. It all started when I was younger, when I would find myself wanting to try new things, and being told no. I wanted to participate in the talent show. I was told I had no talent. I wanted to take gymnastics. I was told I would just quit. I wanted to take violin lessons. I was told it was too loud. I wanted to be a writer when I grew up. I was told its a nice hobby, but I needed a real job. My entire life has been dictated by someone else’s negative, limiting beliefs. I said I would be a successful writer one day. I was told it wouldn’t happen, because Lawrence was my last name. We aren’t successful. It isn’t our luck.
Even if that was a joke, imagine being told that almost every day for your entire life. Don’t you think at some point, you would actually start believing it to be true? It’s the power of suggestion, used on an innocent mind.
That’s when it hit me. That is why I joined. It was something all the naysayers would balk at, but if I could prove I was a success (as well as lose weight and make money!), then there would be nothing that could ever be said to make me feel insignificant, unimportant, and more importantly, a failure, ever again. They wouldn’t be able to touch me. I joined BeachBody, maybe not for the reasons most do, but a reason which is important to me. It is my motivation.
I know that with BeachBody I can be a success. I have a wonderful team around me that constantly supports me, even when I start ruminating in the negative. They believe in me, which in turn, reaffirms my belief in myself.
However, I joined BeachBody also because I believe in the products. I have been a customer for years, and when I saw the opportunity, I knew this was something I could get behind and support. I use the products. I know the company. It isn’t like I’m investing time and energy into some random company. It is BeachBody. I know them.
Additionally, I joined to lose the weight, but I think in my discovery, I will be losing weight — emotional weight. And I think it is this emotional weight which has been plaguing me for years. Weight I’ve been carrying around for no reason. It wasn’t even my thoughts, it was someone else’s and I let their negative thinking affect me! I could just beat my head against the wall. How could I be so blind? All these years, right in front of me!!
But this is why I joined BeachBody. This is why I will be successful. This is why I want to help others find their own BeachBodyRevolution. Getting healthy is so much more than eating right and exercising. Its about getting to the root of physical, emotional and mental stressors which trigger the accumulation of weight. Honestly, weight is just a way of putting boundaries between your inner self and the outside world (at least, that’s how I see it).
I am my own Revolution!!
Team BeachBody
The answer I got was numbing.
It all started long time ago, in a galaxy..wait, that’s not right. It all started when I was younger, when I would find myself wanting to try new things, and being told no. I wanted to participate in the talent show. I was told I had no talent. I wanted to take gymnastics. I was told I would just quit. I wanted to take violin lessons. I was told it was too loud. I wanted to be a writer when I grew up. I was told its a nice hobby, but I needed a real job. My entire life has been dictated by someone else’s negative, limiting beliefs. I said I would be a successful writer one day. I was told it wouldn’t happen, because Lawrence was my last name. We aren’t successful. It isn’t our luck.
Even if that was a joke, imagine being told that almost every day for your entire life. Don’t you think at some point, you would actually start believing it to be true? It’s the power of suggestion, used on an innocent mind.
That’s when it hit me. That is why I joined. It was something all the naysayers would balk at, but if I could prove I was a success (as well as lose weight and make money!), then there would be nothing that could ever be said to make me feel insignificant, unimportant, and more importantly, a failure, ever again. They wouldn’t be able to touch me. I joined BeachBody, maybe not for the reasons most do, but a reason which is important to me. It is my motivation.
I know that with BeachBody I can be a success. I have a wonderful team around me that constantly supports me, even when I start ruminating in the negative. They believe in me, which in turn, reaffirms my belief in myself.
However, I joined BeachBody also because I believe in the products. I have been a customer for years, and when I saw the opportunity, I knew this was something I could get behind and support. I use the products. I know the company. It isn’t like I’m investing time and energy into some random company. It is BeachBody. I know them.
Additionally, I joined to lose the weight, but I think in my discovery, I will be losing weight — emotional weight. And I think it is this emotional weight which has been plaguing me for years. Weight I’ve been carrying around for no reason. It wasn’t even my thoughts, it was someone else’s and I let their negative thinking affect me! I could just beat my head against the wall. How could I be so blind? All these years, right in front of me!!
But this is why I joined BeachBody. This is why I will be successful. This is why I want to help others find their own BeachBodyRevolution. Getting healthy is so much more than eating right and exercising. Its about getting to the root of physical, emotional and mental stressors which trigger the accumulation of weight. Honestly, weight is just a way of putting boundaries between your inner self and the outside world (at least, that’s how I see it).
I am my own Revolution!!
Team BeachBody
Eating emotions
The last few days I have been doing some soul searching, trying to figure out just what was keeping me from losing weight, keeping me from maintaining motivation. Whether you believe in the Law of Attraction, it doesn’t matter, but something I read on the Abraham Hicks website got me to thinking. What if my weight gain and subsequent difficulties in losing weight was actually an emotional weight I was carrying?
So I started thinking. When did I begin to gain weight? Determined the time period. What were the major stressors? Determined those as well. So what was the common thread?
I have always been an emotional eater, but before, I would deny myself food to deny emotions, now I was feeding my emotions because I was tired of hearing them. If I could eat, then I couldn’t think. I couldn’t focus on my emotions. So, now that I know, I can stop it.
Granted it goes deeper than that, but all in good time. Everything will unveil itself, all in good time.
So what is triggering you?
Team BeachBody
So I started thinking. When did I begin to gain weight? Determined the time period. What were the major stressors? Determined those as well. So what was the common thread?
I have always been an emotional eater, but before, I would deny myself food to deny emotions, now I was feeding my emotions because I was tired of hearing them. If I could eat, then I couldn’t think. I couldn’t focus on my emotions. So, now that I know, I can stop it.
Granted it goes deeper than that, but all in good time. Everything will unveil itself, all in good time.
So what is triggering you?
Team BeachBody
May means Motivating and Yearning
What motivates you? What are you yearning for? A better looking body? Inner peace? Financial freedom? Why not take the month of May and discover what motivates you and what it is you are yearning for.
31 days. That’s all. Just take the next 31 days to focus on exactly what you want. Pick a goal. Say you want to lose weight. Great goal, indeed it is. But why? What is it that is motivating you to lose weight? When you locate what motivates you and your goals, you understand your goals and yourself so much better, that you are likely to stick with your goals.
brings us to yearning. What are you yearning for? Are you yearning to fit back into those jeans that you gave up on years ago, or that bikini? Sitting down and focusing on your goal will help you to fully embrace and reach your goal.
So what does May mean for you?
31 days. That’s all. Just take the next 31 days to focus on exactly what you want. Pick a goal. Say you want to lose weight. Great goal, indeed it is. But why? What is it that is motivating you to lose weight? When you locate what motivates you and your goals, you understand your goals and yourself so much better, that you are likely to stick with your goals.
brings us to yearning. What are you yearning for? Are you yearning to fit back into those jeans that you gave up on years ago, or that bikini? Sitting down and focusing on your goal will help you to fully embrace and reach your goal.
So what does May mean for you?
What did you do today?
As I am discovering as a fitness coach for BeachBody and as a fitness nut, it is true that it takes a team effort to see results. BeachBody has team beachbody which is a forum where members can discuss their workouts, weight loss, motivations, etc with others who have the same issues. It is a great way to keep yourself accountable and make friends who are happy to see you lose.
I just joined the forums, mostly to help me find people who will WOWY with me (another beachbody program), so that I have someone asking, hey what did you do today? In fact, that is exactly what happened. I have been talking with another member who is a YBB junkie like me, and she asked, which work out did you do today? Even though I had an unfortunate run in with an Asian chicken salad from a food chain who will remain nameless and I was sick pretty much all morning long, I decided to work out, because I didn’t want to wuss out.
I’m glad I did.
I actually feel better now, and my illness has subsided.
The only problem is my village (aka my cats) decided that my clothing hanging down while I was in downward dog pose was too entertaining to pass up. So while I’m trying to center, they are attacking the ties on my belt. That’s cats for you.
Regardless of the program you do, try to find friends to do it with you. You will find that you have more success and enjoy your work out even more. Just watch out for the ties.
BeachBody Products
My BeachBody Profile
I just joined the forums, mostly to help me find people who will WOWY with me (another beachbody program), so that I have someone asking, hey what did you do today? In fact, that is exactly what happened. I have been talking with another member who is a YBB junkie like me, and she asked, which work out did you do today? Even though I had an unfortunate run in with an Asian chicken salad from a food chain who will remain nameless and I was sick pretty much all morning long, I decided to work out, because I didn’t want to wuss out.
I’m glad I did.
I actually feel better now, and my illness has subsided.
The only problem is my village (aka my cats) decided that my clothing hanging down while I was in downward dog pose was too entertaining to pass up. So while I’m trying to center, they are attacking the ties on my belt. That’s cats for you.
Regardless of the program you do, try to find friends to do it with you. You will find that you have more success and enjoy your work out even more. Just watch out for the ties.
BeachBody Products
My BeachBody Profile
Spring is in the air
I decided today that instead of being indoors and sweating, I would go outside to enjoy the nice (82 degree) weather. I went down to the park, which has a track that follows by the river and curves behing the recreational fields. It was a rather nice afternoon, as I watched the little league games and the little kids trying to keep up with their running parents. It was rather nice seeing families out exercising together. I felt my heart skip when I saw the older couple walking in the afternoon sun. So sweet.
But in my mile and a half walk, I thought about a lot of things, which is why I so enjoy exercising. It so freeing to thoughts, just let it go and let it think. I thought my goals and dreams, the things that have been weighing me down, the things that I should be placing my energies into. The mind got such a clarity that I felt as if I was walking in the clouds. The sun against skin, the slight breeze over the river, it just reaffirmed my belief that the best therapy for an individual is exercise.
If I could bring YBB outside, I totally would.
I enjoyed my time outside, which I don’t do during this time that much (due to me being allergic to just about everything that blooms), it was a nice little adventure into a lovely spring afternoon.
So what did you do today?
Team BeachBody
But in my mile and a half walk, I thought about a lot of things, which is why I so enjoy exercising. It so freeing to thoughts, just let it go and let it think. I thought my goals and dreams, the things that have been weighing me down, the things that I should be placing my energies into. The mind got such a clarity that I felt as if I was walking in the clouds. The sun against skin, the slight breeze over the river, it just reaffirmed my belief that the best therapy for an individual is exercise.
If I could bring YBB outside, I totally would.
I enjoyed my time outside, which I don’t do during this time that much (due to me being allergic to just about everything that blooms), it was a nice little adventure into a lovely spring afternoon.
So what did you do today?
Team BeachBody
Getting back on the (exercise) horse
So, after feeling sorry for myself for several days now, and fighting a nasty sinus thing, I decided even if I couldn’t breathe, I was exercising. So out came Yoga Booty Ballet Live Cardio Cabaret and I brought the sexy back, in all my sinus glory.
I really can’t tell you how wonderful YBB is, nor can I fully explain the beauty of yoga. There is something so peaceful about, something that makes me feel connect to the world around me.
When I do yoga, I feel like I finally belong. Everything makes sense.
A little eccentric, yes, but, that’s me. I tell it like it is.
It was rather enjoyable to do YBB with my cats, as they have a tendency to join in during the warm up and cool down. They are particularly fond of savasana, though my little man express an interest in the breath of fire this evening, and I have the scratches to prove it. Apparently the rapid motion was too interesting to ignore.
During this brief hiatus, I realized just how important exercise was to my mental health. Simply not doing some sort of activity for a few days sent me into a spiral quick. I began to doubt myself. I began to question everything. I realized that I had been suffering the last few years, going through bouts of depression, all because I wasn’t engaging my mind-body-spirit connection enough. Now that I’m exercising more, I can feel the connection re-emerging and I feel healthier, more whole, more alive.
In my family, exercise has been a side effect of medical conditions. No one really exercised for mental and emotional well being. It was either to lose weight, or keep a disease in control. While I would like to lose weight, I would rather lose the weight of the mental and emotional baggage I’m carrying, rather than lose 25 pounds so I can get a guy to wink at me.
Though I have a sneaking feeling that when the emotional baggage is gone, the weight will be too. Bonus!
I’ve readjusted my attitude. I don’t care about the numbers. I don’t care about the size of my jeans. I care about being healthy, happy and stable. Exercise is not a solution, it is a way of life. It is now my life.
It can be yours too, if you choose.
Yoga Booty Ballet
I really can’t tell you how wonderful YBB is, nor can I fully explain the beauty of yoga. There is something so peaceful about, something that makes me feel connect to the world around me.
When I do yoga, I feel like I finally belong. Everything makes sense.
A little eccentric, yes, but, that’s me. I tell it like it is.
It was rather enjoyable to do YBB with my cats, as they have a tendency to join in during the warm up and cool down. They are particularly fond of savasana, though my little man express an interest in the breath of fire this evening, and I have the scratches to prove it. Apparently the rapid motion was too interesting to ignore.
During this brief hiatus, I realized just how important exercise was to my mental health. Simply not doing some sort of activity for a few days sent me into a spiral quick. I began to doubt myself. I began to question everything. I realized that I had been suffering the last few years, going through bouts of depression, all because I wasn’t engaging my mind-body-spirit connection enough. Now that I’m exercising more, I can feel the connection re-emerging and I feel healthier, more whole, more alive.
In my family, exercise has been a side effect of medical conditions. No one really exercised for mental and emotional well being. It was either to lose weight, or keep a disease in control. While I would like to lose weight, I would rather lose the weight of the mental and emotional baggage I’m carrying, rather than lose 25 pounds so I can get a guy to wink at me.
Though I have a sneaking feeling that when the emotional baggage is gone, the weight will be too. Bonus!
I’ve readjusted my attitude. I don’t care about the numbers. I don’t care about the size of my jeans. I care about being healthy, happy and stable. Exercise is not a solution, it is a way of life. It is now my life.
It can be yours too, if you choose.
Yoga Booty Ballet
Finding motivation when there's none there
I admit, I’ve been feeling less than motivated lately. Perhaps I tried to do too much the first week. I was on a roll. It was an awesome feeling. I enjoyed it. But then my body went ‘yeah I don’t think so.’ And I went into a valley of lack of energy and motivation. It happens, but we have to fight through it. I’ve been fighting through it, even if it isn’t at 100 percent, I’ve been sticking to a schedule, incorporating some bit of cardio or weight training in my day in some way.
That’s the key to it.
It also helps to have friends around to help motivate and inspire you. That’s one thing I like about BeachBody, they have plenty of forums for you to join to find people who are going through the same thing as you are. I’ve come to rely on the forums, as a means of keeping me accountable for my actions.
Maybe that’s all that I needed.
http://www.beachbodycoach.com/coachcaro
That’s the key to it.
It also helps to have friends around to help motivate and inspire you. That’s one thing I like about BeachBody, they have plenty of forums for you to join to find people who are going through the same thing as you are. I’ve come to rely on the forums, as a means of keeping me accountable for my actions.
Maybe that’s all that I needed.
http://www.beachbodycoach.com/coachcaro
Shakin' your booty and burnin' the fat away
So, I brought Yoga Booty Ballet Hip Hop and Cabaret into my workout, and I was so exhausted afterwards. I would have never thought I would have worked out so hard with a video at home, but the YBB work outs are incredible. Even my cat Ferris gets into it, well, he’s more into the savasana pose, but what cat isn’t? He did seem to master Bhujangasana (cobra) pose pretty well, but I can’t seem to get him to incorporate the ballet portion into his daily work out program.
The cabaret was the first time I did it the other day, and the next day, I was slightly stiff. I could tell I had worked out muscles that needed to be moved. I loved it. Its entertaining, its fast paced, and I felt like I had accomplished a strong program when I was done. If you want a program that doesn’t feel like a work out, YBB caberet or any YBB program is for you.
The great thing about YBB is that it incorporates the principles of centering and breathing that is central to yoga. I love the sense of peace I get from not only a strong work out, but a work out that has such relaxing yoga poses. I can’t go on about YBB enough. I just love it.
It’s like meditating the fat away.
For more information, visit my profile: http://www.beachbodycoach.com/coachcaro
The cabaret was the first time I did it the other day, and the next day, I was slightly stiff. I could tell I had worked out muscles that needed to be moved. I loved it. Its entertaining, its fast paced, and I felt like I had accomplished a strong program when I was done. If you want a program that doesn’t feel like a work out, YBB caberet or any YBB program is for you.
The great thing about YBB is that it incorporates the principles of centering and breathing that is central to yoga. I love the sense of peace I get from not only a strong work out, but a work out that has such relaxing yoga poses. I can’t go on about YBB enough. I just love it.
It’s like meditating the fat away.
For more information, visit my profile: http://www.beachbodycoach.com/coachcaro
Shakeology
I really don’t like taking vitamins. I do, but I hate taking the eight different vitamins and minerals first thing in the morning to help me feel better and be healthier. Well I found a replacement, and I love it. Its tasty and refreshing and its so filling. Shakeology is so good, and I love making it into this thick, cold smoothie. It’s almost so filling I can’t finish it.
Okay, now there is a lot of good stuff packed into this one little shake. Anti-oxidants. A great serving of daily vitamins. Loads of fiber and protein. It is after all, the healthiest meal of the day!
If you have a problem with swallowing those giant horse pills, you should try Shakeology. I promise you won’t be sorry.
In addition to the Shakeology, I’ve also started taking BeachBody supplements (yes, I’m still choking down pills, some things just wouldn’t taste right in a shake!!). I’ve added the Slimming Pack and the Joint Renewal to my diet. I have to admit, I’ve been using them for only a week, but I’ve already lost five pounds and I’ve never felt better. My knees, which I have really bad arthritis in those joints, hasn’t bothered me at all. Between the Shakeology and the additional supplements, I have had so much energy and want to get out to work out. I enjoy work outs more, because I do have energy, I don’t have pain and I’m seeing results.
I mean, come on, five pounds in basically 10 days? That’s incredible. I owe it all to BeachBody.
Okay, now there is a lot of good stuff packed into this one little shake. Anti-oxidants. A great serving of daily vitamins. Loads of fiber and protein. It is after all, the healthiest meal of the day!
If you have a problem with swallowing those giant horse pills, you should try Shakeology. I promise you won’t be sorry.
In addition to the Shakeology, I’ve also started taking BeachBody supplements (yes, I’m still choking down pills, some things just wouldn’t taste right in a shake!!). I’ve added the Slimming Pack and the Joint Renewal to my diet. I have to admit, I’ve been using them for only a week, but I’ve already lost five pounds and I’ve never felt better. My knees, which I have really bad arthritis in those joints, hasn’t bothered me at all. Between the Shakeology and the additional supplements, I have had so much energy and want to get out to work out. I enjoy work outs more, because I do have energy, I don’t have pain and I’m seeing results.
I mean, come on, five pounds in basically 10 days? That’s incredible. I owe it all to BeachBody.
Day Six
I just finished Yoga Booty Ballet Hip Hop Abs, and I’m beat. The program really works up a sweat while helping you maintain a goddess balance. I think that’s what I love most about YBB is that it really incorporates the principles of yoga with great cardio and ab work out. My thighs and gluts are killing me.
I’m happy to say I’ve lost 1 pound. While I wish it was more, one pound is normal and natural.
Check out the video and see if YBB is for you. If so, let me know. Visit my profile at BeachBody to get more information and place an order. I promise you won’t regret it, YBB is awesome! I love Gillian and Teigh.
Yoga Booty Ballet
I’m happy to say I’ve lost 1 pound. While I wish it was more, one pound is normal and natural.
Check out the video and see if YBB is for you. If so, let me know. Visit my profile at BeachBody to get more information and place an order. I promise you won’t regret it, YBB is awesome! I love Gillian and Teigh.
Yoga Booty Ballet
Day Four
Well now that the migraine has subsided, I stepped up the work out a bit. Though my knees are killing me. I started adding lunges and squats, which are hard for me to do because I have beginning arthitis from playing competitive sports for so many years. Granted, I was also the idiot who believed if I wasn’t bruised and bloodied, it wasn’t a good day. But I started doing them.
I’m anxious about getting my supplements from BeachBody. I ordered the slimming set and the rejuvenating set to help with my weight loss and arthitis problems. I’m considering ordering the Shakeology too, to help with the process.
If you don’t know what Shakeology is, here’s a video to tell you about Shakeology.
If you are interested in trying Shakeology, visit my BeachBody site or contact me for more information: info@carolyn-lawrence.com
I’m anxious about getting my supplements from BeachBody. I ordered the slimming set and the rejuvenating set to help with my weight loss and arthitis problems. I’m considering ordering the Shakeology too, to help with the process.
If you don’t know what Shakeology is, here’s a video to tell you about Shakeology.
If you are interested in trying Shakeology, visit my BeachBody site or contact me for more information: info@carolyn-lawrence.com
Day Five
Yesterday was a stressful day and I just don’t think I put the energy into working out as I should have. And to be honest, when I finally tried to go to sleep, the notion of not getting a proper work out weighed on me. I’m finding that I really enjoy working out, it’s a part of who I am. It helps me to focus and center, so that I can be more productive. I know I probably should take time off to allow my muscles to heal, but I don’t feel like I’ve accomplished anything unless I’ve worked out.
I’ve only been working out solidly for a week, and most experts will tell you that it takes at least a month to create a habit. That’s the key to being successful with working out, making it a habit. Creating a schedule that you can stick with so that you don’t feel like its an effort to include working out into your schedule. It should come naturally, just another part of your day. I know its only been a week, but I already feel like its a habit, which is great.
I’ve only been working out solidly for a week, and most experts will tell you that it takes at least a month to create a habit. That’s the key to being successful with working out, making it a habit. Creating a schedule that you can stick with so that you don’t feel like its an effort to include working out into your schedule. It should come naturally, just another part of your day. I know its only been a week, but I already feel like its a habit, which is great.
Day Three
I feel terribly, partly because I didn’t work out today, but mostly because I’m fighting a migraine, which kept me from working out.
While some people will tell you that working out can in fact reduce migraine pressue, it isn’t always the best remedy. Yes, exercising, light exercise can in fact reduce the intensity of a migraine, but there is a fine line between relief and relapse. Working out can also increase the intensity of your migraine with a rebound effect.
Fearing a rebound, I decided that today would be a rest day. I’ve been trying to fight the migraine with homeopathic medicines, such as inflammation reducation pills and the rub-on migraine medication, applied directly to my forehead! It is still giving me problems, but it is easing off.
Tomorrow I will return to my routine. Migraine or no.
While some people will tell you that working out can in fact reduce migraine pressue, it isn’t always the best remedy. Yes, exercising, light exercise can in fact reduce the intensity of a migraine, but there is a fine line between relief and relapse. Working out can also increase the intensity of your migraine with a rebound effect.
Fearing a rebound, I decided that today would be a rest day. I’ve been trying to fight the migraine with homeopathic medicines, such as inflammation reducation pills and the rub-on migraine medication, applied directly to my forehead! It is still giving me problems, but it is easing off.
Tomorrow I will return to my routine. Migraine or no.
Day Two
I have successfully worked out for the second day in a row, which for me is quite an achievement. I’m actually enjoying the feeling of sweat on my brow, listening to my ipod on the treadmill. My biggest problem is with food. I can exercising all I want, but the food I ingest is going to make or break me. Tonight I was bad and had pizza, but I feel that the rest of the day was balanced enough that I can have a little badness at one meal. I just can’t restrict certain foods from my diet immediately, and I would not advise doing the cold turkey method.
Most fitness trainers will tell you to allot for cheat foods in your diet, so that you don’t feel deprived. When you set yourself into the mindset of deprivation, you can also create a lack within your diet, causing you to falter. But, if you can master mind over matter, you can restrict items from your diet without creating a lack. I would suggest just slowly removing certain items from your diet if you feel you just simply cannot live without something. Allow yourself one meal where you have that item, so you feel that you are not dieting completely. Think of it as a treat.
However, this does not mean that you can eat whatever you want at every meal without consideration. Being healthy means being fit within your exercising regime and your diet. Increasing the consumption of healthier foods, good fats and removing all the high caloric, high (bad) fat, high cholesterol and foods low in essential vitamins and minerals (i.e. junk food) can ruin any hope you have for weight loss.
As with anything, you have to work your way up to your goals. I know I can do it, I just don’t want to give up certain foods just yet….can you blame me? But if I want to be healthy, they will have to be limited. Sad, but true.
Most fitness trainers will tell you to allot for cheat foods in your diet, so that you don’t feel deprived. When you set yourself into the mindset of deprivation, you can also create a lack within your diet, causing you to falter. But, if you can master mind over matter, you can restrict items from your diet without creating a lack. I would suggest just slowly removing certain items from your diet if you feel you just simply cannot live without something. Allow yourself one meal where you have that item, so you feel that you are not dieting completely. Think of it as a treat.
However, this does not mean that you can eat whatever you want at every meal without consideration. Being healthy means being fit within your exercising regime and your diet. Increasing the consumption of healthier foods, good fats and removing all the high caloric, high (bad) fat, high cholesterol and foods low in essential vitamins and minerals (i.e. junk food) can ruin any hope you have for weight loss.
As with anything, you have to work your way up to your goals. I know I can do it, I just don’t want to give up certain foods just yet….can you blame me? But if I want to be healthy, they will have to be limited. Sad, but true.
Day One
Weight: 176
Today I decided to make the change. The change that will dictate how I feel about myself and how I will continue on in this life. I decided to get healthy. With several health problems in my immediate family, including heart disease and diabetes, I knew that I could accept that this could and would be my fate, or I could change how I ate, how I worked out and basically, how I lived.
I have always had body image issues, that date back to my late teens. I can clearly remember the first time I “dieted,” even though I didn’t need to. I was 130 lbs. and I played sports constantly. Even when practice was over, I continued to practice. Not because I had to, but because I wanted to. At some point, I got too busy for sports and that’s when the weight slowly started coming on. Eventually I grew so discontent with my life and how I looked, that I just ate, hoping that it would just all go away.
Unfortunately, it doesn’t work that way. Unfortunately, you have to exercise and you have to eat well to maintain a healthy lifestyle. I’m finally to a point where I want to be healthy, not for anyone else, but for myself. I want to stay in this life and contribute to it. To do so, I have to be healthy.
Here’s to health!
Today I decided to make the change. The change that will dictate how I feel about myself and how I will continue on in this life. I decided to get healthy. With several health problems in my immediate family, including heart disease and diabetes, I knew that I could accept that this could and would be my fate, or I could change how I ate, how I worked out and basically, how I lived.
I have always had body image issues, that date back to my late teens. I can clearly remember the first time I “dieted,” even though I didn’t need to. I was 130 lbs. and I played sports constantly. Even when practice was over, I continued to practice. Not because I had to, but because I wanted to. At some point, I got too busy for sports and that’s when the weight slowly started coming on. Eventually I grew so discontent with my life and how I looked, that I just ate, hoping that it would just all go away.
Unfortunately, it doesn’t work that way. Unfortunately, you have to exercise and you have to eat well to maintain a healthy lifestyle. I’m finally to a point where I want to be healthy, not for anyone else, but for myself. I want to stay in this life and contribute to it. To do so, I have to be healthy.
Here’s to health!
Hellow World!
Hello all. My name is Carolyn and I’m starting on the path of health and well-being. Join me as I blog about my trials of weight loss, fitness, spiritual well-being and everything else in between. If you’re currently getting fit, or just thinking about it, you’re not alone. I’m here too. Welcome.
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