SlayingDragons

This past week I've been reflecting on PROGRESS.  

Many times it seems the only way to gauge our PROGRESS is to have something concrete and measurable to compare the "now" versus the "then."  Technically, this may be the only true way to measure progress and success if you are being pragmatic.  

Wouldn't you know, in many ways I'm probably the opposite of pragmatic?  :)  

I've never considered myself a numbers person.  Tracking data, details, and specifics can be overwhelming and cause a stir of anxiety.  However, ask me how I  feel or what I think and I'm more eager to respond without too much hesitation.  

This past week was our 3 month Healthy U evaluations.  All I can say is I'm SO thankful for the time spent organizing, gathering, recording, comparing, and measuring of MY NUMBERS.  It was so rewarding to be able to have something concrete to compare and measure.  I know in the past I wouldn't have taken the time to organize, gather, record, compare, and measure my progress.  

I think sometimes it is too easy to forget where we started.  

Many times we begin to transform and it happens faster than we realize or take time to notice.  

I shared this quote on my Facebook this past week and this bit of my heart.....

I've meant to take the time to sit at my desk and write for a week.  Ok, two.

It isn't that I have been uninspired or that I've lacked for words.

Rather, I haven't been sure how I wanted to put to words my latest victory.

Sure, if you follow me on social media you already know about the weight loss.

This has been in part, a piece of my latest victory.

I don't always talk about the work I've been doing over the past 3 months.

I have a hard time both accepting compliments and talking about myself.

I've never felt comfortable with either.

However, I know that most people don't perceive it as bragging, I just never want to be misunderstood as seeming to have "all the answers."

I certainly do not.

I am learning everyday.

Annnd, we are all going to experience the SAME thing in a different way.

So here is my regime that has help me shed those 50lbs!.

I've really made it a habit to visit the gym at least 4-5 days per week.

I like to do the group classes.  I am quiet. And not the most outgoing.

However, I love the energy that is generated in a group class.

So, I just follow the group fitness schedule offered at my gym, Total Fitness.

It works for me to go in the morning after I drop my two oldest girls at school.

The little one has learned to love the social hour (most days) that she gets while mommy moves.

Monday -Pump

Tuesday- Piyo

Wed- Yoga

Thurs- Piyo

Friday- Pump

I also include at least 3 days of 20-30 minute run time before or after a class.

I like the routine I have established for now.  I'm getting two days of weight training.  A day of great restoration in yoga. And two days of Piyo which offers a low-impact cardio burn with stretching and flexibility.  So far my body is responding wonderfully to this series of workouts.

Occasionally (who am I kidding) my schedule changes due to activities or events with the kids.

Most of the time I just make up for it on a Saturday morning or I have on occasion went in to the gym and joined in on an evening group class.

I'm striving for consistency but I have really allowed myself the mental flexibility that is necessary when you're trying to manage fitness and family :)

I also continue to eat as clean as possible.  Again. My ultimate goal is NOT to eat the same 5 foods for an entire year.  That is just me.  Instead, I eat a variety of real, whole foods.  I occasionally "splurge" and add in something that doesn't follow my whole eating plan on the weekends and I enjoy a meal or treat.

That is realistic.  That works for me.

I want to say that I understand that creating a healthy lifestyle is a process.  I don't have it all figured out.  There are some days that aren't as easy as others.  

However, I see something different in myself this time.  

Yes, I said "this time" because it isn't the first or only time in my life that I have made a healthy change.  There is, or can be a perception of bondage that is created in ones life when tying to eat healthy and exercise.  I know, because I have lived it.  In the past I failed because I was too hard on myself, I didn't practice grace.  Instead I was often rigid, set impractical expectations, and would strive for perfection.  I would end up defeated, believing I was a failure.

......My life today.....

I have so much to be grateful for. Remember, my journey is holistic; mind, body, and spirit. I have the opportunity to be free from the bondage of failure I created based on lies.  This time I have the support of 11 other adults who have declared their health to be number one priority in their life.  I have the support of my family and church.  Most importantly, I have witnessed the power of Truth.  Truth has the power to overcome every lie.  

God's love is unconditional.

#itsoktolivelikeyou'vebeensetfree

"His love has made you more than enough

so go ahead and be who he made you to be

and live like you're loved"

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q_r47Xhkf20