I have lived in Sarasota, FL all my life. My journey began when I was a young girl–battling a weight issue during my teen years. I had gained a considerable amount of weight in a short period of time. I was using food to fill a void.
I had moved out at the age of 18 years old, at that time, I was striving to find who I was outside of the shame and discontentment, I felt daily.
I found myself heading to used books stores, reading books on nutrition, weight loss, strength training, and exercise.
Realizing my challenge lay in a major lifestyle change. I had to learn portion control as well as healthy food choices. Breakfast, snack, lunch, snack, dinner, and bed early were on the menu. Next was adding a three-mile walk daily (I was not too fond of this part, it forced me to feel my body’s less than healthy state).
Finally, After getting some weight off, I headed to the gym. Mornings started at 5:00 am with 45 mins of biking, then heading home to get ready for work. Gym again for strength training work in the evening, reconstructing my body was necessary as I had flaps and folds of skin hanging off my body. It was most unbecoming.
It took 18 months to lose 64 pounds. Slow, steady, and at times incredibly challenging. Behavioral changes are worth the blood, sweat, and tears… Only after the fact can you see and feel accomplished. Strength training reconstructed my body, built my confidence, taught me a different level of discipline and commitment to myself.
Three years it took me to fix what was what I considered needing much renovation and repair. My mind, my body, and my nutrition. Being your best (for yourself and loved ones) is ongoing. Healthy lifestyle changes improve your quality of life, your ability to give to others, and your attitude.