So as most of you know, I am horrible at this blog thing. I write one or two during my breaks but then drop the ball during the normal school year. I will try to get better.....I promise. It is an important, self-reflective tool and being more self-reflective is a resolution I think we could all make this year and every year. Another resolution I am making (and have been actually working towards since Thanksgiving) is adopting a healthier more whole foods based diet.
It all started this past year as I entered my second year of teaching in a very high stress work environment. For the first time in my adult life, I began to feel the effects of aging. My will power has not been able to fight back against lack of sleep, high stress, and just the simple tick of the clock. I fought the wrinkles...and the wrinkles won. :( I keep looking at pictures from only last year and I am amazed at how much I am losing this battle. It's heart breaking and humbling!!
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| Okay, so MAYBE it's not this bad...but this is definitely what I see looking back at me on Monday mornings! | | | | | |
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So what to do with this dang aging dilemma. 30 is the birthday after next, so prevention is key...right?! So in addition my mad dash to the cosmetic store to buy various wrinkle creams, moisturizers, face scrubs, toners, etc. (PS if anyone wants to get me a facial for my birthday, that is sooo fine with me).....I have been reading A LOT about nutrition. When I say a lot, I do want you to know that I have been reading copious amount of research online and in texts. The used bookstore has been a great friend to me!!! Reduce, reuse, recycle...right? SO with this research has come the decision to incorporate a diet of mostly fruits, vegetables, whole grains, etc. In addition.... the addition of vitamins, minerals, water, exercise, reflection, etc. is a bonus with a major reduction of animal products.
Just to let you know (in case you didn't already) I have not eaten meat since Thanksgiving. Over a month!! Whoo Hoo!! Other animal products (milk, eggs, cheese, etc) have been harder to break...but I'm doing that in moderation. Let me tell you...it is hard!!!
Before everyone goes and puts their judgmental caps on and starts lecturing, know that I have consulted with my doctor. She let me know which vitamins I need to be supplementing (multi-vitamins, B12, and vitamin D ) and expressed how much healthier a vegetarian diet is. She also expressed that it would probably be so much easier on my stomach and alleviate my life-long stomach woes because meat is so hard to digest!!!
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| Ignore whatever Yakult is...I just liked the picture of a happy tummy! |
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I am pleased to say that after a month of not eating meat, I feel fantastic. I've been doing this throughout the holidays and this is the first time in history I did not gain any weight throughout the holiday season. I've been eating just as many sweets and other yucky crap, but I think because I said good-bye to moo moo, quacker, and pig pig at the same time, I maintained my weight. I also hypothesize that after the holiday shoveling of nasties into my mouth ends after New Years, I will drop several pounds! Now please know that I am not turning into some PETA lover. I am not judging anyone for eating meat, and don't care that you do!! Just, know that I feel fantastic and am enjoying my decision. Please don't lecture me as I know what I am doing is extremely healthy!! In addition don't be surprised to see me turn down cheeses, dairy, and other sugars...although those vices are harder to break!! If you ever need any suggested reading or knowledge, I am happy to share!! Until then....pass the cucumbers!!!
Now...who would lecture you? There is nothing wrong with what you and your Dr. perceive to be healthy. If you think you are stressed now, what is prepping for the National's and starting a Doctorate program at the same time going to do for you? Pass the cucumbers, indeed.
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