Okay so this Transitions Lifestyle System really works; 1) adding more vegetables, fruit, and eating low glycemic by having protein and fiber at every meal 2) adding strength training 3) doing it with someone and being accountable to myself and each other. WOW. 4) having a practice to minimize stress and maximize being relaxed and peaceful. Although last week was somewhat of a plateau for me, because my life and rhythm got a little out of balance, including my diet, exercise, sleep, relaxation, & mood, this week I am right back on track and……when I stepped on the scale today at 154.5, I happily saw continued progression towards my goals.
Knowing that it is more about the inches than the pounds I was also very pleased to see my hip, waist, chest, thigh and upper arm measurements to have each dropped about 2 inches. I have been able to feel that my body was changing and my clothes were fitting better so I knew something was working, however to actually see the numbers is not only affirming but exciting.
I’ve talked previously about how good this feels, and will say it again. I feel more vitality when I eat, after I eat and in my overall sense of self. Tuning into to my body, I can literally feel the energy within me. A couple of times these last 6 weeks I ate a piece of bread or pasta, gluten free, yes, but in contrast to how I feel eating veggies and fruits with a serving of protein, I felt heavy, and weighed down. And… not only did my skin break out, but my mood changed. Nothing new really for me being aware of this , we all have likely noticed at least the heaviness of eating more carbs than is right for us, however, for me, I know I grew used to it and even with my body’s signals it wasn’t working well for me, now that I have a stark comparison with my new dietary habits, it is even more noticeable, and I’m more committed to my new way.
I have learned that “muscle dictates metabolism” and that aerobic activity, although very healthy and important, is not enough to flip the switch to increasing our metabolism. And….adding weight training, which is building muscle, I’m finding that not only is it invigorating, I am personally experiencing the reality of what appears to be a boost in my metabolism.
Knowing what I know intellectually about this improving healthy lifestyle is motivating, however experiencing it viscerally in my body, energy, overall mood and sense of wellbeing is like a personal coach that continually builds my belief and inspiration to be a bridge for others to find the same for themselves.
I am very grateful to experience the physical change of my body composition from “fat” to “muscle”, the sensation of more life force that is strategically keeping my “body chemisty” in a healthier state and my blood sugar levels even, to minimize fat storage and support a healthier metabolism. These are no longer just concepts to me but a way of life that continues to change my life.
