Eating MORE Fruits and Veggies

I eat a plant-based diet. In other words, the fruits and veggies are the first thing on the plate, and the meat (if I choose to have some with that meal) are a garnish, and not the main event. In eating this way, I feel better. I feel lighter and I thoroughly enjoy the process of eating.

It wasn't always this way -- I doubted one could feel satisfied without a piece of meat or fish staring back from the plate. It wasn't until I questioned the whole vegetarian diet, that I discovered I really enjoy eating vegetables. *My journey contained four weeks of animal product free living, and I learned I could not only sustain life and feel great, I enjoy eating a piece of meat or steak or fish, but I don't necessarily have to eat it.*

 

In my current weight-loss challenge coaching, I have encouraged my team to eat more fruits and veggies. I have also encourage the participants in my classes to do the same. Yesterday, I had to chuckle when one woman asked if I ate meat (all I had said, was I have increased my fruits and veggies). *I love the assumptions*. My response was that I did enjoy meat and fish, I just learned I enjoy fruits and veggies as much. And I do not have to have meat or animal in every meal I eat.

*If you doubt my love for meat, ask my sister.... I had prime rib on Thanksgiving. Best piece I have had in a LONG time.... It melted in your mouth.*

 

But I love the colors and textures and various tastes of fruit and vegetables.

In eating more of these, I have become increasingly aware of hunger and satisfaction (when I have had enough to eat). I am shedding body fat. And most importantly, I feel great!

 

What new fruit or veggie have you tired today?

 

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I took a yoga class

SHOCKING!

 

Well, not really..... I have used different poses/postures to work on my flexibility and strength. BUT, this was my very first, formal class.

AND...... It was great!

Although, the instructor told us yoga should not hurt..... Well, I am sore this morning! And I have a renewed appreciation for insturctors and participants. It requires a great deal of strength and flexibility-- two things I need to continue developing. Two things that will aid in my competitive journey.

Yes, I did it! I took a yoga class! And I am looking forward to the next one.

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Coaching a Weight Loss Challenge

The YMCA is hosting a 10-week weight loss challenge. The purpose is to lay the foundation for overall changes in the coming year -- changes that will be adopted and embraced by the participants. And the team that loses the largest percentage of weight, can win cash prizes.

I was asked to be a coach in said challenge.

 

And I was reflecting....... I am joining my team in the challenge. While my personal weight loss will not count toward the team's loss during the challenge, it will count in my overall health.

And today...... It begins.

Yesterday, I went shopping to ensure a variety of fruits and veggies are in my fridge, ready for the coming week. Preparation is everything! I also weighed in this morning, and took my circumference measurements. And I am excited about my goals and objectives in the next ten weeks.

These include reintroducing weight training circuits, walking 10,000 steps/day, and getting back in the pool to swim. I am excited about changing my overall habits to improve my health, and quality of life.

I hope to post more frequently about my journey to keep my head in the game or to stay focused.

Care to join me on my journey?

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Reflecting on 2013 and Looking to 2014

As I turn the calendar from December 2013 to January 2014, I am glad to see 2013 go. It is pretty cool,how we use the change of a calendar year as a time for a fresh start, a new beginning. Some say out with the old and in with the new.....I don't want to toss the learning out as well. In my personal reflection I have gained some important insights from the experiences of 2013 as I prepare for the adventure of 2014.

 

My word for 2013 was SOAR. The goal was to soar with eagles, understanding that an eagle will not take its first flight until literally pushed from the nest. And eagles nest in high places. I needed that push.

Soar not only referred to the act of flying, but my attitude in everything-- my attitude toward life. How I interacted with other people, how I interacted with myself.

It was a purposeful year. And I did get pushed out of my comfort zone at times, and I found myself excel and at others rolling in the muck.

My big observation as I move into 2014 is I need to work my talents --- I have been struggling in MA, finding my place, making new friends, establishing my business. I know MA is not my final destination, just a stepping stone along the way. I also know there is something I need to learn and apply in my life, before I can be successful anywhere-- because no matter where I go, there I am. -- and I have been *afraid* to show my talents! to really shine. I have almost been living like, I am no longer here. And the truth is, I NEED to be committed to my life here, until it is time to move onward. I was reminded of the parable of the talents (Matthew 25:14-30) and identified with the man who hid his talent until the master of the house returned. I concluded I need to work my business, and build relationships, and find people, AND keep living my life.

I think this in itself is the biggest take-away from 2013. And as I move into 2014, my new word is CLIMB. To signify how I am going to climb to new heights --- personally, and professionally. In my interactions, I am going to elevate my thinking, not to condescend, but to take the high road, and be kind. To push onward, even when the challenges seem to great, and not accept the easy way out.

My goals are becoming purposeful in intent, to help me strive to my greatest potential.

I am looking forward to the climb, and the adventure. I am looking forward to what 2014 will bring.

What is your word for this year?

 

 

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What are you hungry for?

This book is fascinating as it examines the reasons why food becomes a comfort. Granted, we need food to sustain life, and that in itself can provide comfort.

But for many, food is turned to for shelter, as a stress-reliever, or merely out of boredom.

Deepak Chopra discusses the underlying reasons for obesity..... Many of which surround a feeling of an imbalanced life. The title, 'What are you hungry for?' demonstrates that hunger may not be food. This hunger may stem from feelings of inadequacy or incompleteness. The spiritual aspect of our health is discussed. I found it interesting that it is recommended for the first thirty days, the person is to focus on life-balancing needs and not dieting needs. In fact, he says not to diet.

Granted many tools are provided regarding food, and tastes and textures. This provided valuable insights for me as I am seeking to find balance in my eating. I also became more aware of the balancing act of my plate, and where I 'need more' in my personal and professional life, so I can be 'happier'.

I enjoyed this book, from which I took many notes. I also gained comfort in knowing I don't need to obsess about everything I eat, and can create a comfortable awareness. I am also content with my plant-based diet, and the occasional meat.

 

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Mrs Poe-- a novel

I thoroughly enjoyed the novel, Mrs Poe, written by Lynn Cullen.

Set in New York City in the mid 1800s, the story is a twisted tale about life and love. A perfect midday drama. Additionally, the history of the era caused me to do further research about Blackwell's Island (now Roosevelt Island), and kissing bridges. It is hard to believe that New York was once farm land and considered country wilds, north of what is now the village.

In addition to exploring NYC in its infancy, it was fascinating to learn more about Poe, or the author's interpretation of him.

I thoroughly enjoyed this novel, and recommend this read.

 

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I ran a bridge this morning......

It isn't too often that one actually gets to run across a bridge, or walk for that matter. Not a bridge found in a park, but a bridge that crosses a major body of water, like the Naragansett Bay. And this morning, I participated in the Pell Bridge Run, crossing the Pell Bridge from Jamestown to Newport.

This morning reminded me why I run, why I train, and how much fun it can be. It wasn't about racing today, or winning-- it was about the journey. I met some pretty cool people, and enjoyed the views and chatter along the way.

 

I got to run/walk a bridge this morning. I got to enjoy the view.

 

After my run, I frolicked on Easton's Beach. I added several shells to my collection.

This summer I plan to swim under the bridge, with Save the Bay. Care to join me?

 

 

 

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