1. Having an awesome doctor who is both motivating and intimidating and wonderful all at the same time. My first check in was 2 months after the initial "you're unhealthy" diagnosis (and really the check in was to make sure a new medication was working ok - not a weigh in). I only started the new lifestyle changes a month before the check up - and............I LOST 6 LBS! Some people may say....6 lbs. Big whoop. Y'all, that is the size of a standard newborn human. I lost the weight equivalent to a human. A tiny human, but a human none the less. I now go in for check ups every 6 months for a med check - but that still gives me the motivation knowing she's going to be checking in on me.
2. Being active.
One of my best friends is also fairly buff and athletic and she passed along some "simple" (ha) exercises that I can do at home to help me tone up. I don't have to learn all this in front of strangers. I can't make excuses for not making it to the gym because it's in MY LIVING ROOM. We already had most of the basic equipment and have been slowly investing in adding to our home equipment as our budgeting allows.
I've also incorporated yoga into my days off from the weights/toning days. A few friends suggested Yoga With Adrienne and I'm currently working through the 30 day challenge. I'm terrible at yoga right now, but man, my pinched sciatic nerve is totally improving!
I am still signed up for a 5K in July, but 5K training has been halted while Mother Nature figures out what mood she's in - welcome to spring in Iowa. I'm not too concerned with my training schedule. It's a color run and I'm not expecting to win or set records. Hopefully within the next couple weeks that can pick back up.
3. My FitBit
I had the super basic original FitBit and honestly, that would still be fine. This thing was definitely an investment! Why it was worth it - it is super motivating! Like, it literally tells you to move if you haven't for a while. I'm able to track my work outs on it. It tracks my heart rate so I know if my work out is actually working. Ben got my old FitBit so we now have an in house rivalry going on which is great. And I legit did need a watch. If you're looking to get active, look into a fitness tracker (even if it's just an app on your phone). It's hard to ignore data that's telling you why you aren't losing weight! Also, I don't feel as though my thighs could start a fire any longer if I walk too much and that's REALLY motivating.
4. Self Care
I started an actual skincare routine just to provide maintenance for my face. I'm pretty lucky with not a lot of break outs or wrinkles or skin problems, but I have noticed a change in the little bit of texture I had on my face and no more problems with redness. When you look good you feel good! I also use face masks regularly as a chance to zone out and relax. Sometimes I treat myself to a Lush bath bomb. Having little rewards along the way really helps.
A couple weeks ago I started coming down with a cold and when it hit IT HIT. I gave myself grace and let myself rest. I didn't hit my step goal for a week and not a single work out in sight. I knew if I pushed myself, I'd just get more sick. I'm a few days back into my normal routine and by golly I am down another pound. 2 more to go and I can say ciao to the 190s!
I drink A LOT of water and I've officially given up pop unless we are out to eat or I'm in a migraine situation. I've cut way back on sugar and I'm more diligent about getting a good night's sleep. All of these things add up slowly to help me be healthier.
5. Trying new things. Making healthier choices.
Grocery shopping now feels like an adventure. Instead of making a bee line to my old standards, I'm seeking out the healthier options or forgoing the super unhealthy things. I actually spend time in the produce section. That's huge. I'm ok when I try something new and I end up hating it. 2 months ago I only ever ate carrots and potatoes as vegetables. I now also can tolerate kale and spinach in smoothies AND enjoy roasted sweet potatoes. That's more than double the vegetables I previously ate.
Win:
Fail:
6. Accountability.
So many people have stepped up to show support and cheer me on. Others have decided to join in on their own get fit journey. Sharing tips and tricks. My already healthy homies are willing to give advice and answer my fitness noob questions. I have people checking in with me all the time! I think most of my school is now accustomed to my incessant stepping all day long. The kids don't even notice it anymore. Even better are the ones who check in on my step count or want to know how my active minutes are. It's great. Kids even try to challenge me on how many steps they have vs. mine (I dominate. Duh). I have people texting me and facebook messaging me. It all adds up to one awesome tribe of people who feel like they're in this with me.
If you've shared support or encouraged me in the past couple months, thank you. In the most sincerest way, thank you. It truly takes a village. If you're struggling - just start with one change. Once that one sticks for a while, make another change. It isn't a race!
