It’s a month after we all pledged to do better, we swore to the New Year’s resolution genie that if we could have one more year we’d “be the change”, live at the gym and love salad based fare. How’s that going?
Are you still popping out of bed with an increased resolve? Valentine ’s Day is around the corner and will include foodie decadence specifically for your palette. Will your commitment to health survive it? Sensitive topic, I know but I’ve decided - this is my year and the goal is simple. FITNESS!!!
No, I’m not a personal trainer but I’ve spent enough of my hard earned cash on trainers and fancy fitness programs to have learned a pretty expensive lesson. Here goes, body transformation is a marathon not a sprint. It’s not one size fits all and it begins when we claim the responsibility to be our own agents of change. I’ve blossomed into a vegetarian vixen and from stocking my kitchen, weeding out unsupportive “fren-emies”, meal planning to create simple cardio routines that work- I’m your girl!
I’m well versed enough to know what IFBB is and my “bodies of inspiration list” includes names like Ava Cowan, Alicia Marie, Tosca Reno and Margaret Diuablo. I know what it’s like to consult an amalgamation of wellness resources, in order to create a fitness plan that jibes with my vegetarian lifestyle. Like many readers, I’m still relentlessly chasing the hallmark of fitness- “toned abs” and as we overcome the frequent tests of our will, who doesn’t want support on that journey?
Here are four ways to kick start your fabulous life:
The Zone: What excites you about fitness, who are your “bodies of inspiration” and virtual mentors? Be honest about what motivates you and live in that zone, fact find, make a refrigerator collage and do what it takes to stay motivated.
Honor Your Heart: Weight loss isn’t just about pushing away from the table, it’s emotional. Listen to your emotions and acknowledge them, use a diary when you feel the need to jot down why you over eat, at least once measure your correct portion sizes and get disciplined about adhering to them. Are you eating smaller meals 5 to 6 times a day? There is a plethora of free information courtesy of the web. If you understand your behavior a good offensive strategy will ensure success.
Double “O” YOU : It’s okay to lead a double life and from one former member of cubicle nation to another, it’s okay to be an employee by day and gym rat by night. However, your choices have to be complimentary. It’s not okay to go to yoga class then visit Krispy Kreme. Don’t tease yourself with edible treats instead opt for a spa day, visit www.whatissuitetabu. com or buy a pair of “Form and Fauna” shoes!
A Passion Poster: I’m a visual person and sometimes I do need to see it in order to believe it. I have a huge board in my home that has inspirational quotes, magazine cut outs, an image of the Prius I hope to buy soon and other motivating items on it. My sister and I once super glued our faces over the cover model of our favorite health magazine, we giggled but posting that picture on the refrigerator really helped me avoid late night snacking. What’s your visual diet?
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