Today is day three of my journey to a healthier me. Already, I can feel a difference. I woke up more energized than normal. I don't have that lethargic feeling that comes from eating too much processed food. I know that I have a long way to go, but it feels good to feel good.
I realize that while telling the tale of my journey, I am giving you guys some tips to use. So, I will insert a gratuitous disclaimer here: I am not a doctor, dietitian, nutritionist or nurse. I am simply a woman who after trying all the major diet programs out there and raising three kids has found a few simple truths along the way that have worked for me. I hope they will work for you too. However, I must caution that before you being a diet and exercise program, that you please consult with your family doctor. Whew! Now I can avoid being sued. (smile inserted here.)
Onward to today's topic, my ten simple steps to a healthier you. At the wise old age of 42 I guess I learned a few things, mostly about myself. These steps have helped me, and I hope the help you too.
1) Love who you are NOW. This is the hardest yet simplest rule to live by. Love the skin that you are in. Realize the value of YOU. Take absolute pleasure in who you are as a human being. When you do this, the way you feel about yourself is reflected back to those around you.
2) Stay off the scale. A healthier you is not just about pounds lost. It is a feeling of overall well being. Nothing is more depressing than being really “good” and at the end of the week you do not see results on the scale. This is where some people give up and go back to bad eating habits. But before you do this ask yourself these questions: How do I feel? Do I have more energy? Do I feel more confident? Are my clothes just a bit looser? THIS is how you measure your success, not just by numbers on a scale.
3) Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate. I cannot stress this enough. Water flushes toxins from the body, and can help you feel full at meal times. Drink as much as you can handle.
4) Get Support. (And I’m not talking about a new bra). It is vital that you have a good support system in place, at home and at work. Sit your family down and explain to them what your health goals are. Encourage them to join you on your quest. Do the same in your office. This way you wont have to feel bad when you don’t join in eating birthday cake for some random employee for the 18th time this month.
5) Focus! I don’t know about you, but I have a bad habit of reading while I eat. The brain is not catching the signal that your full, because it is already engrossed in that book that you just can’t put down. By the time you realize it, you have plowed through a second helping of lasagna, or a whole bag of Doritos. Take your time and enjoy the meal. Food should be a sensory journey of culinary delights. Set a pretty place setting for yourself. Light some candles and play some soft music. Take the time to chew your food, thoughtfully and slowly. Put down your utensils in between bites and enjoy a sip of water or other beverage. Think you can’t do this for breakfast? Think again! The pomp and ceremony of a well balanced meal will aid in digestion and carry you through the day with a euphoric sense of well being.
6) These boots were made for walking. Start walking, 30 minutes a day if you can. I personally feel walking is the best exercise you can give to your body. After a few weeks, you can add some toning weights (they can strap to your wrists and ankles) or use a toning band. Many times I am walking down a busy street lifting my arms up and down in slow reps or using my giant rubber band for toning. Sure I get some weird looks from passersby but hey! This is all about me now. Let them look and watch the transformation into a healthier me! (Again, I caution that you see your doctor before beginning an exercise program of any kind.)
7) Time your workouts. Try to do your workouts in the mornings. This accomplishes two things. The endorphins you release will keep you happy and confident throughout the day. Also, you kick start your metabolism for the day. You will burn more fat this way. Nothing is worse than doing your workouts at night. There you are trying to sleep and your body feels like you just consumed 8 cans of Red Bull.
8) Set small weekly goals. Set goals for yourself that are achievable such as “ I will use my TV time this week to exercise” or “ I will substitute fresh fruit instead of pie for dessert”. Setting big goals like “I want to lose 60 pounds” is daunting. Remember, it took many years of unhealthy habits to get you where you are today. A successful return to a healthier you will not happen overnight.
9) Reward Yourself. If you have met your small weekly goals, reward yourself with small treats. Maybe buy a new book or a new pair of shoes. Earrings to show off a new hair cut. There is nothing wrong with spoiling yourself.
10) COMMITMENT. All the diet and exercise programs in the world will not garner results without commitment. Personally, this is where I need some help as well. Everyday, I need to re-enforce my commitment to myself and my family to get healthy and stay that way. I am blessed to have a great family and support system in place to help me achieve my goals.
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