It hasn't been easy, getting back on track, and I can't say I'm there yet. But today, after the third session with my personal trainer since the end of a cold fraught vacation, I'm feeling good. Three sessions with my trainer, J in the past six days!
At the first session, J was easy on me, because I asked. At the second, he worked me harder. Today was the hardest of all. I've never done a decent pushup in my life, and today, with his encouragement, I did twenty! Not pushups on the floor, mind you, but using a big exercise ball. And they still count.
Now this may sound pretty good on the surface. Maybe even like I'm back on track. Problem is, until today, I'd been allowing my sessions with J to be my only exercise. I'd been skipping my cardio, my daily walks.
This morning I decided I'd go out for a nice fast walk in the park. But then I sat down in front of my laptop. And, wouldn't you know, it started to rain--a copious, cold rain.
I stayed chained to my computer, working on some final tasks for The GOTCHA. (See my last post if you don't know what The GOTCHA is.) Time zoomed away, and in less than two hours I'd have to leave for my work out appointment. It looked mighty like I wasn't going to fit my walk in after all.
Guilt weighed on me, harder and harder. I almost couldn't stand it.
I checked my watch. I still had time. Something clicked inside me--I thought of my treadmill gathering dust in the bedroom.
Then, I committed!
I pushed my chair away from the desk, traipsed upstairs, grabbed a book on writing craft, and climbed onto my treadmill. I pressed START. For a half hour, I walked to a great read, a book called "The Plot Thickens: 8 Ways to Bring Fiction to Life," by literary agent Noah Lukeman. Luckily, this book's type is big enough for me to read it as I walk on the treadmill.
Now, at the end of the day, I'm patting myself on the back. Not only did I work out today with my trainer, but I also did cardio for the first time in over a week. A small step, perhaps, but in the right direction.
Maybe tomorrow I can do the same. If you've fallen off track, I hope you can, too.
xo, ciao,
Rita
Monday, January 21, 2008
Thursday, January 17, 2008
'Fessin Up
I haven't blogged in a few days, and I'll confess: my cold beat me up. I've been working on The GOTCHA, a writing contest run by my local RWA chapter (Romance Writers of America.) I'm coordinating part of this worthy venture, and results are coming in. A contest, a cold, and a vacation -- all happened at once, making me busy, sick, and lazy.
Fessin' up about the lazy part -- for days, I couldn't breathe. My nose felt like two cement cones had been shoved up my nostrils, and that wasn't exactly conducive to exercise. So I didn't. Not as much as I'd hoped, anyway. I'd figured on six days of skiing during vacation, but wound up skiing three. So much for my confession.
On the other hand, yesterday was better. I still have the cold, but kept my appointment with my personal trainer. He went easy on me, but I did do most of my routine. In spite of my cold, the workout felt good.
Tomorrow's my next appointment, and I'm gonna ask him to work me hard. The key thing, I figure, is to get back on track. So, I'll pick myself up, and continue my program.
Has anyone else had a setback? Everyone does, sooner or later. That's why I offer you my little story. If I can 'fess up and recommit, so can you. If not, you could pray for a parking space. If that sounds like a non sequitur, see Gin's comment to my January 9th post.
Have a great day.
xo,
Rita
Fessin' up about the lazy part -- for days, I couldn't breathe. My nose felt like two cement cones had been shoved up my nostrils, and that wasn't exactly conducive to exercise. So I didn't. Not as much as I'd hoped, anyway. I'd figured on six days of skiing during vacation, but wound up skiing three. So much for my confession.
On the other hand, yesterday was better. I still have the cold, but kept my appointment with my personal trainer. He went easy on me, but I did do most of my routine. In spite of my cold, the workout felt good.
Tomorrow's my next appointment, and I'm gonna ask him to work me hard. The key thing, I figure, is to get back on track. So, I'll pick myself up, and continue my program.
Has anyone else had a setback? Everyone does, sooner or later. That's why I offer you my little story. If I can 'fess up and recommit, so can you. If not, you could pray for a parking space. If that sounds like a non sequitur, see Gin's comment to my January 9th post.
Have a great day.
xo,
Rita
Wednesday, January 9, 2008
Staying Commited during a Slowdown
Do you ever feel life conspires against you, stopping you from meeting your exercise and nutrition goals? Maybe you have a tight writing deadline and it's all you can do to keep daily life going while you chain yourself to your keyboard. Or the kids are sick and a whole day (or entire week) is turned upside down like a kicked bucket, and your exercise plans slosh out. Or the day job throws a crisis, smashing your plans into smithereens, and for lunch you hit the vending machine, grabbing a Snickers bar.
Here's the big question: how remain committed to exercise and good nutrition when life gets in the way?
Today, that's what I'm asking myself. After two glorious days skiing at the Heavenly Valley resort here at Lake Tahoe, I've come down with a cold so nasty it borders on the flu. While my husband and daughter hit the slopes I'm sitting at the dining room table in our timeshare, banging at my laptop, surrounded by a cache of pain relievers and decongestants so big I could open a store.
This week I'd planned to get in my quota of four or five days of active exercise via daily skiing, but now I’m feeling too sick to ski, or even to walk outside in the cold. But I’m going to stay committed anyway, and I won't beat myself up. I’ll give myself some time to heal, then resume my activities. Here’s my plan.
It seems to me that when life slows us down, it’s crucial not to blame ourselves. Self chastisement subverts success. When I beat myself up I feel like a failure. That throws me into a downward spiral and I get off track. This time, I’m going to be gentle with myself and implement my two-step plan.
How do you stay committed to your goals when life gets in the way? How do you stay committed?
Before I say ciao, please welcome new "member" Sherry, whose goals I've summarized and added to the January 4th post, Look Here for Inspiration. Glad to have you, Sherry!
xo, ciao,
Rita
Here's the big question: how remain committed to exercise and good nutrition when life gets in the way?
Today, that's what I'm asking myself. After two glorious days skiing at the Heavenly Valley resort here at Lake Tahoe, I've come down with a cold so nasty it borders on the flu. While my husband and daughter hit the slopes I'm sitting at the dining room table in our timeshare, banging at my laptop, surrounded by a cache of pain relievers and decongestants so big I could open a store.
This week I'd planned to get in my quota of four or five days of active exercise via daily skiing, but now I’m feeling too sick to ski, or even to walk outside in the cold. But I’m going to stay committed anyway, and I won't beat myself up. I’ll give myself some time to heal, then resume my activities. Here’s my plan.
Pause and reflect. While I’m cozying up in front of the fire, I’ll let myself enjoy this period of inactivity. I’ll read, watch TV, and work on my computer. I’ll enjoy a book I’ve just bought, French Women Don’t Get Fat, and use it for nutritional inspiration.
Set a date to resume my routine. That date will be tomorrow or Friday, when, if I feel up to it, I’ll ski again. If I don’t feel up to skiing by then, I’ll check out the fitness center here at the timeshare and take a gentle walk on the treadmill. If the weather’s sunny, I'll nix the treadmill and walk outside in the crisp winter air.
It seems to me that when life slows us down, it’s crucial not to blame ourselves. Self chastisement subverts success. When I beat myself up I feel like a failure. That throws me into a downward spiral and I get off track. This time, I’m going to be gentle with myself and implement my two-step plan.
How do you stay committed to your goals when life gets in the way? How do you stay committed?
Before I say ciao, please welcome new "member" Sherry, whose goals I've summarized and added to the January 4th post, Look Here for Inspiration. Glad to have you, Sherry!
xo, ciao,
Rita
Monday, January 7, 2008
Celebrating Subtle Changes
Sometimes change creeps up on us, especially when we're starting something new--better nutrition, increased exercise, or the first few pounds we've shed. But the change exists, even if we don't yet notice its effects.
Today I have a celebration to share: I can still ski, and better than before! My legs and ankles sport new strength, and my balance has turned dependable. I hadn't noticed these changes on a daily basis, but they come through loud and clear on the slopes.
Although in my mind and heart I'm always a spring chicken, my body does feel effects of increasing chronological age. I love to ski, but I hadn't done so in at least five years, thinking maybe I was getting "too old." Perhaps I had good reason to think this, because the last time I skied I was out of shape and struggled down the ski runs.
Now, things are different! Since October '07, I've been working out with a personal trainer, (I'll call him "J," to preserve his privacy.) My workouts with J have included ski conditioning and strength training.
Though there's lots of wonderful powder up here in Heavenly Valley at Lake Tahoe, yesterday the skiing was hard because all the runs couldn't be groomed to my liking due to continuing falling snow. That means I had to exert myself more to glide down that mountain without falling.
Several times, I caught an edge of my ski on snow. Each time, I recovered, not falling even once! Five years ago, I would have fallen.
I attribute this happy state to my workouts with J. The results show on the slopes!
Well, that's all for now. I want to head out and get back into that snow.
Who else has a celebration to share? Or a challenge? Please put them in a comment to let us know. I look forward!
Yours for vibrant health and the good life,
xo, ciao,
Rita
Today I have a celebration to share: I can still ski, and better than before! My legs and ankles sport new strength, and my balance has turned dependable. I hadn't noticed these changes on a daily basis, but they come through loud and clear on the slopes.
Although in my mind and heart I'm always a spring chicken, my body does feel effects of increasing chronological age. I love to ski, but I hadn't done so in at least five years, thinking maybe I was getting "too old." Perhaps I had good reason to think this, because the last time I skied I was out of shape and struggled down the ski runs.
Now, things are different! Since October '07, I've been working out with a personal trainer, (I'll call him "J," to preserve his privacy.) My workouts with J have included ski conditioning and strength training.
Though there's lots of wonderful powder up here in Heavenly Valley at Lake Tahoe, yesterday the skiing was hard because all the runs couldn't be groomed to my liking due to continuing falling snow. That means I had to exert myself more to glide down that mountain without falling.
Several times, I caught an edge of my ski on snow. Each time, I recovered, not falling even once! Five years ago, I would have fallen.
I attribute this happy state to my workouts with J. The results show on the slopes!
Well, that's all for now. I want to head out and get back into that snow.
Who else has a celebration to share? Or a challenge? Please put them in a comment to let us know. I look forward!
Yours for vibrant health and the good life,
xo, ciao,
Rita
Friday, January 4, 2008
Look here for Inspiration
I promised I'd summarize everyone's goals and put them together, so I’ve taken a crack at briefly restating what you’ve said in your posted comments. Read further to see how inspiring you are!
I’ve enjoyed reading about your all your objectives, including those for your writing and personal lives. Its good to express the totality of our goals, because it stands to reason we'll increase our chances of success by linking health practices with our lifestyles. I’ve limited this summary, though, to the main purpose of this mutual support blog: exercise, nutrition, and weight loss.
Here's what you've said:
Annie: She’s succeeded in losing weight. Since some has crept back up, she wants to lose again and knows she’ll feel a whole lot fitter after that. She’s looking forward to feeling competent and in control of her life and happy that she’s followed through on what’s important to her. You paint a wonderful picture of the future, Annie, and we’re happy to help you in your efforts. We feel sure you’ll succeed.
Beppie (a.k.a., “Mom”) would like to lose a specific number of pounds. Very busy in many areas of her life—family, publishing, job—she want to set priorities and work out a schedule of how to fit all her time-absorbers together into something approaching a reasonable mix. Winning goals, Beppie, and we're here to support them.
Gin wants to make lifestyle changes, and her doctor agrees. She’s planning to use her gym membership actively now, and to eat more fruits and veggies. Fantastic, Gin! We’re right there with you!
Janice says she’ll give thought to her 2008 goals. We look forward to hearing them, Janice!
Jill hasn’t “declared” her goals just yet, but says she likes the idea of this blog. We’re looking forward to hearing more from you, Jill!
Jordanne is looking for more peace and calm and balance, and sees her challenges as order and discipline. She’s looking forward to a great year and to success in her goals. Jordanne, we’re looking forward to following your progress and helping however we can.
Magdalena: She loves to walk outside, traversing the hilly streets of her town, in all kinds of weather—snow, sleet, heat. She advises dressing for the weather and getting outside, knowing it will bring a smile to our faces. Magdalena, you are an inspiration! We look forward to hearing your successes.
Sherry has created a new plan for herself, a “writing, promoting, cleaning, exercising, nutrition and emailing plan,” in her words. Her plan includes time slots for important personal, family, and writing activities. You have to see it to appreciate it. I for one, am impressed with her very interesting approach. Check out her plan at her blog at Sherry's Plan. Sherry certainly has inspired me.
Wendi: She used to exercise daily but slowed down last year, and is ready to get started with a more serious routine. Her idea for 2008 is to start every morning on the elliptical. She likes to be accountable, and thus may pop in and report her progress, thought she’s not aiming for a specific number of pounds to lose. She’s looking forward to the motivation we’ll share on this blog. We’re looking forward to sharing that motivation, Wendi.
As for me, I want to remain steadfast with my current exercise routines and to continue eating lots of fruits and veggies and minimizing saturated fats. I’m so glad I’ve started this blog and have you all to share with!
I'd love to see comments to support each other in the above, and reports on progress. They can be daily, weekly, or less frequent. I do think the more frequent the better, to hold ourselves accountable and to support each other. Shall we give it a whirl?
Once I've had a chance to exercise today, I'll report my progress via a comment. I hope some, if not all of you, do the same.
We're on our way. Good luck to you all!
xo, ciao,
Rita
I’ve enjoyed reading about your all your objectives, including those for your writing and personal lives. Its good to express the totality of our goals, because it stands to reason we'll increase our chances of success by linking health practices with our lifestyles. I’ve limited this summary, though, to the main purpose of this mutual support blog: exercise, nutrition, and weight loss.
Here's what you've said:
Annie: She’s succeeded in losing weight. Since some has crept back up, she wants to lose again and knows she’ll feel a whole lot fitter after that. She’s looking forward to feeling competent and in control of her life and happy that she’s followed through on what’s important to her. You paint a wonderful picture of the future, Annie, and we’re happy to help you in your efforts. We feel sure you’ll succeed.
Beppie (a.k.a., “Mom”) would like to lose a specific number of pounds. Very busy in many areas of her life—family, publishing, job—she want to set priorities and work out a schedule of how to fit all her time-absorbers together into something approaching a reasonable mix. Winning goals, Beppie, and we're here to support them.
Gin wants to make lifestyle changes, and her doctor agrees. She’s planning to use her gym membership actively now, and to eat more fruits and veggies. Fantastic, Gin! We’re right there with you!
Janice says she’ll give thought to her 2008 goals. We look forward to hearing them, Janice!
Jill hasn’t “declared” her goals just yet, but says she likes the idea of this blog. We’re looking forward to hearing more from you, Jill!
Jordanne is looking for more peace and calm and balance, and sees her challenges as order and discipline. She’s looking forward to a great year and to success in her goals. Jordanne, we’re looking forward to following your progress and helping however we can.
Magdalena: She loves to walk outside, traversing the hilly streets of her town, in all kinds of weather—snow, sleet, heat. She advises dressing for the weather and getting outside, knowing it will bring a smile to our faces. Magdalena, you are an inspiration! We look forward to hearing your successes.
Sherry has created a new plan for herself, a “writing, promoting, cleaning, exercising, nutrition and emailing plan,” in her words. Her plan includes time slots for important personal, family, and writing activities. You have to see it to appreciate it. I for one, am impressed with her very interesting approach. Check out her plan at her blog at Sherry's Plan. Sherry certainly has inspired me.
Wendi: She used to exercise daily but slowed down last year, and is ready to get started with a more serious routine. Her idea for 2008 is to start every morning on the elliptical. She likes to be accountable, and thus may pop in and report her progress, thought she’s not aiming for a specific number of pounds to lose. She’s looking forward to the motivation we’ll share on this blog. We’re looking forward to sharing that motivation, Wendi.
As for me, I want to remain steadfast with my current exercise routines and to continue eating lots of fruits and veggies and minimizing saturated fats. I’m so glad I’ve started this blog and have you all to share with!
I'd love to see comments to support each other in the above, and reports on progress. They can be daily, weekly, or less frequent. I do think the more frequent the better, to hold ourselves accountable and to support each other. Shall we give it a whirl?
Once I've had a chance to exercise today, I'll report my progress via a comment. I hope some, if not all of you, do the same.
We're on our way. Good luck to you all!
xo, ciao,
Rita
Thursday, January 3, 2008
Goals and Challenges
Thanks for posting answers to the questions I've asked. I've enjoyed reading your answers.
It seems a common theme is balance. With so many responsiblities pressing on us, it's easy to get off track and abandon our program. We do so many things and care for so many people -- for our families, friends, our colleagues. We work hard for our editors, or for our bosses on our "day jobs." We do so much for others, there's hardly time for ourselves.
To me, this mix adds up to LIFESTYLE. Any program for exercise, nutrition, and/or weight loss, must fit into our own personal lifestyles, whatever they may be. This is something I learned through my participation in the Stanford study. It's something I'll share with you in later blogs.
By the way, if you haven't seen the article about the Stanford study which was such a big help to me, here's the link to it.
Since more people seem to be "joining" this blog, I'll wait a day or two and then I'll try to compile everyone's goals. That will show us where we stand.
Then, I'll post some of my own tips. I'll also be looking for guest bloggers to tell us their tips.
Meanwhile, keep checking in. Make your comments. Post your successes, your challenges, whatever. I'll post mine, too. Post as often as you want. If daily reporting helps you, go ahead and do so. If weekly is better, that works, too. During the Stanford study, I reported my progress weekly.
My next post will be about getting off the couch. Hope you enjoy it!
xo, ciao,
Rita
It seems a common theme is balance. With so many responsiblities pressing on us, it's easy to get off track and abandon our program. We do so many things and care for so many people -- for our families, friends, our colleagues. We work hard for our editors, or for our bosses on our "day jobs." We do so much for others, there's hardly time for ourselves.
To me, this mix adds up to LIFESTYLE. Any program for exercise, nutrition, and/or weight loss, must fit into our own personal lifestyles, whatever they may be. This is something I learned through my participation in the Stanford study. It's something I'll share with you in later blogs.
By the way, if you haven't seen the article about the Stanford study which was such a big help to me, here's the link to it.
Since more people seem to be "joining" this blog, I'll wait a day or two and then I'll try to compile everyone's goals. That will show us where we stand.
Then, I'll post some of my own tips. I'll also be looking for guest bloggers to tell us their tips.
Meanwhile, keep checking in. Make your comments. Post your successes, your challenges, whatever. I'll post mine, too. Post as often as you want. If daily reporting helps you, go ahead and do so. If weekly is better, that works, too. During the Stanford study, I reported my progress weekly.
My next post will be about getting off the couch. Hope you enjoy it!
xo, ciao,
Rita
Tuesday, January 1, 2008
2008 -- A Clean Slate
Happy New Year! 2008 and a clean slate--isn't this wonderful?
So, here we are, joining together in our goals for exercise and nutrition, and maybe weight loss or maintenance. As I write this, most of those who have expressed interest in this blog are writers facing the downside of our passion--hours and hours in front of the keyboard. Many of us writers have day jobs, too, and often those are sedentary.
As time goes on, more people will join us. People who aren't necessarily writers. But, writer or not, most of us nowadays face nutrition and exercise challenges. It's long been in the press that we have a problem with obesity in this country. So, whatever your occupation, if you're here to join with others to be part of a solution, you are welcome.
If you haven't read my post of December 31, 2007, try to take the time to do so. There, I've asked some questions about how we should proceed. I'd love to hear your answers and other thoughts you have. I promised I'd post my own answers, so here they are.
Question 1: Sit back and close your eyes for a moment and imagine this is December 31, 2008. What dreams (or concrete goals) would you like to be able to say you've made come true by then? They don't have to be about exercise and diet, but it would be good to tell us how they connect to exercise and diet.
My answer: On December 31st, I'd love to tell you I've obtained an excellent literary agent to represent my works of fiction. I'd like to say I've tweaked my two novels to make them the best they can be, so I can proudly submit them to my agent. Since that will require untold hours sitting at the computer, I'd like to say I've been steadfast with my exercise routines, that I've maintained my current nutrition standards of minimal saturated fat and lots of vegetables and fruits. I also have goals for my "personal" life -- to be a good wife and mother, a good friend, a good sister and aunt, and to keep a good house. (Those last goals are more fully developed on my writer's website: www.ritastclaire.com.)
Question 2: On December 31, 2008, if you've met these goals or made those dreams come true, what will your life be like? What changes will you see?
My answer: I'll be full of excitement and energy. Having a great literary agent will tell me I'm on my way to being a published author. And, with the vibrant health and energy that come with good nutrition and exercise, I'll feel especially ready. Succeeding with my weight loss goal will make me feel really good about myself, and I'll love being able to wear more stylish clothes. For me, success with diet and exercise and success as a writer are linked in my mind.
Question 3: What specific challenges do you face right now?
My answer: I feel like I never have enough time to get everything done. Another problem is that once I get writing, I don't want to get up to do anything else, and that includes exercise! When I'm working fast and furious on a novel, or anything involving writing, I don't even want to take the time to eat right.
Those are my answers. What about yours?
I'll be back on January 3rd. At that time, I'll share some tips I've learned.
And, if you can make the time on this first day of the year, go for a walk. Inside your house or outside, even if just for five minutes. I'm going to do that. I'm getting off the couch today!
See you back here on January 3rd.
xo, ciao,
Rita
So, here we are, joining together in our goals for exercise and nutrition, and maybe weight loss or maintenance. As I write this, most of those who have expressed interest in this blog are writers facing the downside of our passion--hours and hours in front of the keyboard. Many of us writers have day jobs, too, and often those are sedentary.
As time goes on, more people will join us. People who aren't necessarily writers. But, writer or not, most of us nowadays face nutrition and exercise challenges. It's long been in the press that we have a problem with obesity in this country. So, whatever your occupation, if you're here to join with others to be part of a solution, you are welcome.
If you haven't read my post of December 31, 2007, try to take the time to do so. There, I've asked some questions about how we should proceed. I'd love to hear your answers and other thoughts you have. I promised I'd post my own answers, so here they are.
Question 1: Sit back and close your eyes for a moment and imagine this is December 31, 2008. What dreams (or concrete goals) would you like to be able to say you've made come true by then? They don't have to be about exercise and diet, but it would be good to tell us how they connect to exercise and diet.
My answer: On December 31st, I'd love to tell you I've obtained an excellent literary agent to represent my works of fiction. I'd like to say I've tweaked my two novels to make them the best they can be, so I can proudly submit them to my agent. Since that will require untold hours sitting at the computer, I'd like to say I've been steadfast with my exercise routines, that I've maintained my current nutrition standards of minimal saturated fat and lots of vegetables and fruits. I also have goals for my "personal" life -- to be a good wife and mother, a good friend, a good sister and aunt, and to keep a good house. (Those last goals are more fully developed on my writer's website: www.ritastclaire.com.)
Question 2: On December 31, 2008, if you've met these goals or made those dreams come true, what will your life be like? What changes will you see?
My answer: I'll be full of excitement and energy. Having a great literary agent will tell me I'm on my way to being a published author. And, with the vibrant health and energy that come with good nutrition and exercise, I'll feel especially ready. Succeeding with my weight loss goal will make me feel really good about myself, and I'll love being able to wear more stylish clothes. For me, success with diet and exercise and success as a writer are linked in my mind.
Question 3: What specific challenges do you face right now?
My answer: I feel like I never have enough time to get everything done. Another problem is that once I get writing, I don't want to get up to do anything else, and that includes exercise! When I'm working fast and furious on a novel, or anything involving writing, I don't even want to take the time to eat right.
Those are my answers. What about yours?
I'll be back on January 3rd. At that time, I'll share some tips I've learned.
And, if you can make the time on this first day of the year, go for a walk. Inside your house or outside, even if just for five minutes. I'm going to do that. I'm getting off the couch today!
See you back here on January 3rd.
xo, ciao,
Rita
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