Life Update

I finally started my diet! Its kind of been crazy since this whole whirlwind related to my arthritis began. I have to make a lot of changes and one of those changes was my diet. On Sunday I went out and purchased all the food I was supposed to have in order to do this diet they prescribed to me. I bought a weeks worth of food... for myself... and it cost me $75. That in itself will be a big adjustment. That like half a month's worth for the who family! Yikes!!!

Anyway, they say the first three days are the hardest. However, since I was at work, today wasn't so bad. Dinner was the worst though. I made spaghetti and meatballs for the family while I had salad. I will tell you something, I don't know that I like this  "no calorie" dressing they recommended. Taking the calories away took all the goodness. Hopefully I will get used to it because this is 6 weeks of my life for now, and really its several months of my life in the end.

I got a membership to a gym and started working out a little bit. I can't do a lot, but I will do what I can. Next week I hope to start some water exercise programs. They will help reduce the pain I am in when I do traditional workouts.

Now I just need some motivation to get me through. I would love to hear some motivational stories, quotes, or even health tips below. I've always found the blog community to be the most supportive and I look forward to having all of you on my journey!

8. Stretch

Start a routine that gets you going and makes you feel refreshed. I am not saying you have to take on a major exercise program. Doing just a little something (making a small healthy change), will make worlds of difference.

Not only that, you help your body prepare for a more active lifestyle. If you already have issues (such as arthritis, back problems, sleeping issues, stress), stretching can help you heal, cope, and wind down. I am especially in need of this suggestion. I have a LOT of back problems and stretching can increase my muscle strength and provide some relief from my almost constant pain. I actually don't know what I am waiting for....

Any time you try to pick up a routine (healthy or otherwise), there is a time of transition. Don't be surprised if you don't wake up every day excited by the thought, but in the end its worth it. Stretching provides so many benefits to our minds and body!

30 Before 30: Thirteen

You guys are going to like this one!

13. Take an "exotic" work out class. Ideas include: Pole dancing, burlesque chair, belly dancing, etc.

Recently a coworker suggested a Pole fitness center in my area. I'm tempted to take a free introduction class. Sounds like a blast! Sometimes I get good ideas from the strangest places! I won't lie, what could be better than a workout thats sexy to make you feel sexy?!

Do you think I am getting a bit too crazy yet?

30 Before 30: Ten

10. Find and stick to an exercise routine.

I think by the age of thirty I should have at least that part of my health taken care of. Truthfully, I doubt I will give up sweets. I do not believe I will become vegetarian and I can feel little guilt in promising you that I will never be a fan of "green" smoothies.

This leads me to ask: Do you know any good exercise routine ideas? I mean for a chunky girl who doesn't run?

Probably my first step would be to get a gym membership... yes?

My children and husband deserve a happy, healthy me. Its about time I start working on that!