New Beginnings

Dear Reader,

Today I start my journey leading to a better and healthier lifestyle. Why it took me this long to begin, I will never really know. Perhaps it was because I was afraid of changing, and how people would look at me after losing some weight. Finally, I reached a point in my life where I personally no longer care about what others think of me. Being bullied throughout my years in school, it was tough. Having no self confidence, let alone not knowing where to start off. Just to think it took me to graduate High School to want a healthier lifestyle.

In the beginning it isn’t as easy as most people would think. Most don’t stick to their routine, they either lose faith, or just simply give up. I am here to help guide those of you who wish to lead a healthier lifestyle as I go about my journey. From eating healthier to home workouts, I will share every tip, and piece of advice that I possibly can.

Before digging drastically into this new lifestyle, start off easy and slow. For instance, when I first started I just cut out drinks with high amounts of sugar (such as pop). I began drinking more water, I even installed an app that reminds me when to drink in case I slack off. This app also keeps track of how much water I drink in a day. Also, when it comes to drinking, I have created a daily schedule. One day I will drink water, the next day will be tea, the day after will be alternated between tea and water. Tea is good for you as long as it does not have a whole lot of sugar in it.

As I mentioned about how I would be switching up and altering my drinking, I might as well discuss food! Nothing to drastic will be done considering this is only the beginning. However, some simple changes can be made here. First, be sure to eat breakfast! Breakfast is the biggest meal of the day! Second,when making your plate try using a smaller plate. Using a larger plate will cause you to overeat, while the smaller plate will make you feel full, and trick your mind. Finally, try to snack throughout the day. For instance, I usually grab some granola bars at my local store, or some yogurt cups. Snacking throughout the day can help you with eating less when it comes to dinner time, so you will not be tempted to eat more than needed.

The first week of starting this new lifestyle should be taken easy (as I said earlier). If you decide to do workouts don’t just jump in and go at it. Ease your way through. Start off with some general stretches (you would not want to pull or strain anything, especially if you have not worked out in a while). Again, start off easy. I usually do about 10-­15 jumping jacks, 10 push ups (15 if you do them the “girly way”), 10 squats, then a little 2 minute break, followed by 10 crunches,10 lunges (5 for each leg), and planking for one minute. However, I do switch my workouts up so they are not the same thing everyday!

Although, this is just how I would begin my journey to a healthier life. It may not be easy, but it will be worth it in the end. How would you start your journey to a healthier lifestyle??

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Brooke Jackson
Contributor for 5 Flavors Blog