I want to begin by acknowledging that the field of personal fitness is a fairly new interest for me. I certainly don’t know everything about fitness and good health, but I am constantly exploring and learning about health, nutrition, fitness, etc. Because of this passion, I believe I have what it takes to help others with their health and fitness goals. I love helping people and I like to have a positive impact on those around me. So, let’s take the next step together to finding a healthier and happier you!
I believe there are five ‘ingredients’ involved in one’s lifestyle-let’s call them the SPICE of life! These contributing factors are the Social, Physical, Intellectual, Culinary and Emotional aspects of our lives. For many of us, we would add a sixth, Spiritual. For the sake of developing a connection and the trust necessary to take this journey together, let me share a bit about my own story. I plan to write this as a series, so I can expand on how those ingredients-SPICES- are foundational to this process.
I didn’t struggle with weight issues until in my 30s. Because I was blessed with ‘good genes’ I did not take my health seriously until a bout with cancer in my late 30’s. I finally realized that the cancer wasn’t entirely to blame for how I looked and felt and that a lifestyle change was in order. Like many of you, I needed to take an honest look at my choices and take responsibility for them. I had to decide to be in charge of my health, not at its mercy. I was fortunate that my husband was ready to make some changes as well, because having a partner/coach during this journey is imperative. For me, this represented the Social aspect. I needed the encouragement and accountability of another person. For others, the social aspect might be represented by the network of friends and acquaintances they have at their local gym. There may be a few out there who can endeavor successfully, alone, but my experience has been that greater success comes with some sort of social connection and support.
As I mentioned, I met cancer face-to-face in my late 30s. All went well and I have been cancer-free for nearly ten years. However, at the time of my diagnosis I had many physical issues I thought could be explained away by the cancer. I had hoped that surgery and treatment would leave me symptom –free. Unfortunately, my lifestyle choices contributed more to my general malaise, and not the cancer. My sedentary life style was a major culprit. I thought because I wasn’t “too over weight” that I didn’t need to exercise. Who likes to get hot and sweaty and tired?! For me, this Physical aspect was low on my list of priorities. I thought chasing kids, keeping a home and having a job provided enough activity to keep me from having to check the ‘sedentary’ box on any medical forms. I had no knowledge of how intentional and consistent exercise could impact my life. I stumbled upon it almost by accident by starting with the things I liked doing and allowing myself to explore some new things along the way. So don’t feel badly if you hate weights and love cardio (like I did). Start with what you like and are comfortable with. Hopefully, the Social aspect will influence the Physical aspect and you will be introduced to new forms of exercise. In turn, you will be encouraged by the way you feel and look, which will positively influence your progress. Over time I have learned to appreciate the importance of the Physical aspect-It is more about how you feel than how you look.
I read a lot before diving in to the process of making changes to my lifestyle. The food plan and exercise choices I made were successful because the science behind it made sense to me. I can attest to the plans and products that worked for me, however, I will also say that the same plan will not work for everyone. These types of choices are so important, and personal. One thing I can say with certainty is that it has to make sense for you, and fit your particular needs, limitations, goals and strengths. You must acknowledge and own your struggles and take full advantage of your strengths. Sometimes these are difficult to recognize in ourselves and makes having a partner/coach all the more beneficial. So, choose a food plan and exercise routine that works for your life and makes sense. This represents the Intellectual aspect. You do have to put some thought into what you are committing to, or you will not succeed in making progress toward a healthier you.
So far we have touched on the first three aspects, the Social, Physical and Intellectual pieces that contribute to those ‘SPICES’. I will expand on the Culinary, Emotional and Spiritual aspects and how they played into my journey, in a future post.
I commend you for taking steps toward achieving a better lifestyle by investing your time in learning about better choices. I would love to assist you as you continue this venture! I want to hear your story and learn more about how I can help you continue to make better choices for a healthy lifestyle by becoming ‘Your Best Fitness Friend’! Email me or comment below so we can get started!
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