I'm an "After" Story!!
After many years and several attempts of being a "Before", I am now proud to call myself an
"After"!
On March 15, 2012 I reached my goal of 150 lbs. Six months later I'm not only ready to claim it but I'm pleased to announce I've lost another 14lbs!
I know six months is far from a lifetime of maintenance but in the past when I reached a goal weight, I stayed at it for all of a few weeks, maybe a month; quickly reverting to old habits and a silly sense of indestructible I've-got-this-attitude!
Reaching this goal has not been about a number on the scale; its been about exploring and learning about myself and my relationship with food. Its been a journey to a healthier, stronger and more confident person. Its been about taking care of myself and giving myself the time to get here (almost two years to get to goal).
Here are a few things I want to document so that during challenging times (I'm a constant work in progress and am no fool, I KNOW I will be faced with challenges and temptations), I can come back here and read my own two-cents-worth of "words of wisdom"..............
To develop healthier coping strategies, it's important to learn more about the connections between your brain and your food choices.
Pay attention to your body's hunger cues. Is it hunger or thirst? What's "eating" you?
Be mindful when eating; eat with consciousness. Don't eat in front of the television, in the car or standing up. Pay attention to your meal. Sit down in a comfortable place and enjoy it.
Drink plenty of water.
Give yourself encouragement. Think positively. Celebrate your success!
Don't beat yourself up when you slip. Fight hard to regain control!
Try not to ignore your problems and negative feelings. Facing them may be hard, but it's healthy.
Use your support system; call a friend to talk through any problems you may be having. Remember that seeking help is a sign of strength not weakness. This site and the wonderful life long friends I have made have been and continue to be invaluable!
Write it all down! Keep not just a food log, but a journal describing emotions that trigger overindulgence. Resolving emotional eating is a journey. The first step is awareness and the second is being ready to change. Changing negative, self-defeating thoughts into more positive constructive thoughts is key.
Get out of the house, exercise, read a book, take a bath -- be good to yourself! Remember you are worth every effort!
Thank you for being a part of my journey. And believe me, it ain't over! I continue to be a work in progress.......an "After" story!!
Keep Swimming!
Before......
After......