Hello All!
I am refocusing . . . again. I get overwhelmed so easily by life and I quickly forget the things I need to have/do if I want to be healthy and to reach my weight loss goals. I had a solo brainstorm session and made a list of the tools I need to keep me on the right track.
And here they are:
1. Running Shoes: Like I've stated before, I never thought that I would ever be a runner. But by starting simple yet still pushing myself to go faster and longer, I have learned to love running. (I still wouldn't classify myself as a runner . . . yet.) Running has been difficult lately as I don't own a treadmill and am relying on the weather. But I still haven't given it up.
2. Exercise Mat: I am falling in love with yoga. I only do quick 20 minute routines, but I look forward to doing it each day (and so do my children!). I've also been using this mat for some of my other at home workouts that involve some type of HIIT workout.
3. Weigh Scale: I wasn't sure if I wanted to add this to the list of "tools for success", because this challenge of mine isn't just about weight (as the blog title suggests). But let's be real here: I am trying to lose weight! and stepping on the scale is an important tool to keeping myself of track.
4. Water: "Water is the essence of moisture, and moisture is the essence of beauty." Sorry . . . I couldn't help myself. But here's the truth: Drinking water is the essence of health.
5. Scriptures: Reading the scriptures gives me understanding. From reading the word of God I come to learn about who I am and God's love for me. Knowing this gives me strength and purpose.
6. Good Food: I love food, a LOT. It may not be the most convenient or inexpensive, but if I am to be successful I need to fill my cupboards, fridge, and freezer with good food - healthy food - REAL food.
7. Health Journal: This is certainly an invaluable tool. Writing things down, for me, is important as my ming has difficulty focusing or remembering. I use it to record workouts, recipes, feelings, tracking my weight/measurements, ideas, resources, etc.
8. Music: Have you even tried going for a run or workout without tunes? I did once. It sucked.
9. Medication: I will talk more, I'm sure, about how I found my way to being diagnosed with depression, but for now let me just say that I am not ashamed of needing medication in order to feel "normal". I have ADD and Depression. I used to think that I was weak and/or crazy and that I just needed to try harder at being normal and happy. Not so. Although it does take a fair amount of work and self-mastery on my part, I don't think that I would be successful without proper medication.
AND LET'S NOT FORGET THE IMPORTANCE OF A SUPPORT NETWORK! Having a spouse and family supporting me in my goals is vital. And I cannot thank Mal and TJ enough for their council and direction thus far. And you guys! Your love and encouragement has meant the world to me. I would say to anyone wanting to start living a healthier life, that they need to surround themselves with like minded people.
I can do this!
We can do this!
