Lessons Learned From Weight Loss Journey

Nutrisystem Bears for each 10 lbs LostI've been here before.
Getting into that mindset to lose weight happens to me every 3-4 years. I get good at doing it during that time. I start the eating plan that works for me (that's Nutrisystem), I go down some sizes in the multiple size store hanging in my closet, and I start to feel good about it. Then about 6 months go by and I slowly head back the other way. 
That's my norm. I'm used to it and I think my body is as well.
10 lbs each month





What I hope/feel/believe is different in 2018 is I don't want to be on a diet. I want to change how I view food, how I view  getting up and moving, how I view healthy choices.
I'll be the first to admit I know that averaging 10 pounds a month of weight loss is fast. I do believe it will slow down now as I've hit the point where I usually shift, lose desire and head upwards. This time I've added much more cardio than in the past so I believe burning the calories is really adding to the rapid weight loss. (Now if I can just tone those muscles that are starting to show under the layers of fat.) I've started resistance band training as well and love the burn I get from doing it. 
Enjoy cardio even on really COLD days
I'm actually enjoying the journey more this time than ever before. I like getting outside to do my cardio. I like thinking about how my body can change by April of next year when I turn 50. And I really like the Nutrisystem food. I did, however, make the food last longer than a month as I will trade off eating it some meals and others I eat "regular food", making better food choices. I feel this will make it easier when I stop this plan and know what kind of foods, portions, and calories I should eat. 
5k Lincoln Tunnel ChallengeThis month has been great. I did the 5k last week on my birthday morning and was overwhelmed with feelings of all sorts of accomplishments on that day. My friends (and social media strangers) are very encouraging and supportive. Many people have suggestions and advice, but I tend to believe one thing doesn't work for everyone. Find what is best for you and go for it.
I'm also well aware of my size still. People are VERY kind telling me I'm shrinking and seem "so skinny" when looking at photos...Thank you! (Yes, I can actually see the change when looking at photos as well). But even I know I'm still considered obese on the BMI scale...so "skinny" is a long way to go.
Fall '17 - starting the cardioOne huge lesson I learned was I tend to turn to food when I'm down, depressed, upset - it's always been my go-to. This week I was low and wanted to turn to food, but stopped myself. The next day I felt so proud that I hadn't given in to it. I decided IF I want to eat something special that I 'miss', it should be enjoyed in a happy moment and not out of despair. Order it, cut it in 1/2 and then enjoy eating some of it VERY SLOWLY. (It actually worked for me and I didn't feel deprived.) 

December 2017 & April 2018






So it's onward on my journey. So much more work to go. (Trust me, you'd REALLY see it if I shared the shirt off 'before' photos.) We'll hold off on those until next year's blog. For now, we'll see what happens next and what I continue to learn. We're never too old to gain new knowledge.