Update: Week 1 is done!

Emily brought up several things yesterday that often bother me as well, and I’m sure that many of you have the same frustrations of dealing with backhanded compliments and unwanted advice.  That was definitely a reminder that this challenge is about me and my well being.  I may not work at the same pace as others but that’s ok, I have to do what I feel comfortable with and find what works for me, what will make me happy, and what will help reach MY goals for myself.

Overall, my first week went really well. I had mentioned before that I prefer to work out at home because I don’t like how competitive gyms can be, and I have to be able to squeeze my exercise into whatever time I can. That being said, I’ve been doing power yoga using a video at home every other day and I’m already starting to notice a difference. It’s definitely more of something I can feel than rather than see, but progress is progress.  A few days ago I actually tried going on a run for the first time in forever. It was the first really nice day in Milwaukee; I got home from work and didn’t really think about it, just got my sweats and gym shoes on before I could think about it and change my mind.
As running goes, it was pretty disastrous. I didn’t last as long as I had wanted and was walking for more than half of it, but considering my past with running, I was satisfied and will give it another go once this rain stops.

On Saturday I chose to skip for Fight Night and watch some real athletes instead. The Canelo v. Trout fight was awesome. PS Canelo is from Jalisco, MX!

I’ve been making big batches of fruit and veggie smoothies so I can have them on hand when I go to work last minute. I also stocked up on fruits like bananas, apples, and oranges so I can take them as snacks. I’m proud to say that these two little changes completely cut out the snacks from gas stations and vending machines that I used to rely on to refuel. Rice has always been a staple of mine when I cook, but I’ve replaced it with lots and lots of sauteed vegetables.

I’ve really noticed a difference in my energy level and can feel some muscles working that had been underused for way too long. If week one is any indicator of what is to come, I am definitely loving this healthier lifestyle. However I do still have to work on my sweet tooth, it is definitely my hardest habit to kick!

My tip of the week: If you are like me and always forget to take your vitamins, follow the example of the older and wiser. I thought about getting a pill box to set out my vitamins for the week, but instead I put the vitamins I take in a little cup (the kind that come with a bottle of Nyquil) on my kitchen counter. I take them in the morning and then put new ones in the cup so that they will be ready for the next morning, haven’t forgotten them yet!

– Cris