Awesome August Update - Week Two

Another awesome week in August for me! Last week I focused on meditation, stretching, and yoga. I know I did a really good job in this area because I was sick all weekend. I must have released some serious toxic energy! It started Friday afternoon when I started feeling really tired. That evening I had a nice therapeutic pedicure and Saturday I attended a meditation workshop. I received many confirmations and revelations during the workshop.


By the middle of the afternoon session, I started sweating and feeling dizzy. I wasn’t sure if I was going to pass out or vomit. I sat in the restroom for a good 15 minutes. I then sat in the reception area to cool off. Once I felt I was present and back in my body, I returned and manage to make it through the last two hours. Yesterday, I canceled my plans and stayed home to rest. I’m still feeling a bit off. I’m going to do some grounding meditation today. I also plan to do a light workout session in the gym today.

Awesome August Update - Week One

Happy Monday! Let’s see:

1. My meditation practice was consistent. I sat on the cushion for at least 15 minutes each day. I also attended my meditation group on Thursday night.

2. I hit my exercise goal exercising for a minimum of 60 minutes (can you say overachiever?) and burned at least 400 calories each session. My legs are sore! My knee is bothering me a little bit. This week I want to put more emphasis on my stretching routine.

3. Hydration. I could have done better in this area. I’m not tracking my water intake every day. There were a couple of times I thought I’d finish my water only to find my bottle on half full on the kitchen counter or my night stand.

4. Sleep. I am most proud of my achievement in this area. It was a struggle but I did it. One or two nights I was 10 minutes or so late get in bed but I did it! The only problem I had with going to bed by 10:30 pm is that I found myself tossing and turning until midnight and waking up at 5. I’d eventually go back to sleep until 7. It is weird how my body has gotten used to so little sleep. I do feel a bit better.

5. Play. Saturday night I attended a birthday celebration at an Indian restaurant. Food, friends, and fun! What more can I say about that?

Awesome August Challenge

Today is the first day of Healthy Loser Gal’s Awesome August Challenge. I’ve decided to fine tune a few healthy habits I’ve been working on for the past few months. One of the things I need to focus on is consistency.

1. Prayer and meditation. While I do this on a regular basis, I want to schedule dedicated time for my spiritual practice.

2. Exercise. I want to continue working out for at least 45 minutes, burning at least 400 calories per session five days a week.

3. Hydration. This is a HUGE challenge for me. I am going to drink at least 64 oz. of water each day.

4. Sleep. I am very hesitant about putting this one in writing. However, it needs to be addressed. I am not getting adequate sleep. I’m going to take a tiny step here and commit to going to bed by 10:30 pm, Monday – Friday.

5. Play. There is a HUGE opportunity in this area of my life. I work between 40 – 70 hours a week. While I had made some improvements, I need to be more consistent. I will make sure I schedule a play date each week.

Okay, I've marked my calendar to post an update next Monday.  Let’s do this!

Patience

The Universe has really been offering me lessons of patience.  Sometimes I think, Ha! After the last 10 years, you still have some lessons on patience for me.  I think I've passed that course with flying colors!

Think again.

Anyhow, just when I think my knee is all better and I can start jogging again, it acts up.  I'm glad I get these little reminders outside of the gym.  I was just walking and felt a slight pang.  It's probably time for another adjustment.

Things are wonderful.  My workouts have been great. I've been focusing on building my cardio endurance.  I also decided to start hitting the weights on a regular basis. My food plan has been tight. I cannot believe I haven't had any sweets or potato chips in 300 days.  I'm amazed! 

Oh, one thing I am working up the nerve to do is sign up for swimming lessons. I need to add it to my fitness bucket list. One of my fitness pals is burning mad calories in the pool.  Another friend on Twitter recently conquered her fear of swimming in a lake.  Both have been so inspiring.  Okay, so, I've put it out there.  Thank you, Universe. I see swimming pool laps in my future......

Back in the Gym

I'm slowly getting back into my sweaty groove.  My knee is still a bit stiff.  I am taking it easy, stretching, and doing a few lunges and squats.

My test results revealed my estrogen level is low.  My doctor wants my number to be around 100.  Right now it's at 35.  No wonder I've been feeling awful!

I'm going to give it another week or two and then I plan to restart the couch to 5K program.  I think I'm going to start from Week One.  I have to admit I am very disappointed that I am not going to meet my September goal. 

I'll cross the finish line sooner or later.

I'm Back - Part Two

I experienced another week of ailments and knee problems.  Yesterday I had bloodwork done.  The doctor thinks it simply be the heat.  I've been doing my best to stay hydrated.  I'm feeling pretty good right now.  I'm going to go to the gym soon today.  I'm going to take it easy and see what happens.

I'm Back!

The last few weeks have been difficult.  I had a little health scare but I am feeling much better.  I sat in the patient room last week waiting for my test results near tears.  I was very frustrated.  I had a little talk with my body to please cooperate with me and I promise to do the same.  
I'm going to start over with the Couch to 5K running program.