Embracing a New Approach to Fitness
The journey to a healthier lifestyle is often characterized by twists and turns, a cycle of gaining and losing weight, and the struggle to find a sustainable path. I, too, have navigated this yo-yo diet experience, fluctuating between shedding pounds and gaining them back. After numerous rounds of this cycle, I realized the need for a new approach – a gentle and consistent one that wouldn't leave me with excuses to stray from the path to wellness.
Closet Chronicles: A Tale of Two Sizes
In my closet, I hold a collection of memories, each set of clothes representing a different phase of my weight journey. There are the outfits from my skinnier days, waiting like a beacon of aspiration, and then there are the ones I wear when the weight creeps back on. It's a constant reminder of the ups and downs I've faced over the years.
A Post-COVID Commitment: A Fresh Start
Post-COVID, with a renewed sense of purpose, I made a decision to prioritize my health. This time, I chose to break free from the cycle. I stepped into a gym, but this time with a different mindset. Rather than pushing myself to the extreme, I opted for a simpler approach.
Starting Small, Staying Consistent
My strategy was clear - 30 minutes of light walking and another 30 minutes of the easiest exercises I could find at the gym. The goal was to clock in an hour each day, but keep it so undemanding that there'd be no room for excuses. No muscle soreness, no cramps, and definitely no stiffness that would deter me from returning the next day.
From Nothing to Something: Beating the Baseline
Previously being inactive, my primary goal was to surpass my usual activity level. The gym became a place where I could elevate my daily activity, a simple step up from doing nothing at all. A month in, I began gradually increasing the difficulty and duration of my workouts, all while keeping it within the realm of ease and comfort.
Prioritizing Safety and Longevity
Above all, my focus was on avoiding injuries and muscle aches. It was about striking a balance between progress and precaution. I was committed to this journey for the long run, and sustaining it required prioritizing my well-being.
Conclusion: A Journey of Self-Compassion
My journey to a healthier self has taught me the power of simplicity and self-compassion. Starting with ease, consistency, and a mindset that values my overall well-being has been the key to breaking free from the endless cycle of weight fluctuations. It’s a journey of embracing who I am at every stage and making small, sustainable changes that lead to a happier, healthier me