Take Care of Yourself First

Have you ever been told that you need to take care of yourself first before you can take care of others?  I’ve been told this and have read it as well.  I used to think that it was selfish to think of myself first and I don’t like to think of myself as selfish…. although I am learning as I progress in my healthy living journey that when I get annual check-ups, eat right, exercise and take some “me” time, I’m more effective and ready for other things that come my way.

Before I lost 50 pounds, I thought I was taking care of myself first, when I always had check-ups, spent time doing things I liked to do, such as quilting with friends; or when I got enough sleep and ate regular meals. I’ve learned it means so much more!! There were so many things I wasn’t thinking about!!  I learned to remember that I have one body and one chance to take care of it!

Endurance — I would tire easily — I was “winded” after climbing one flight of stairs, I couldn’t keep up with my Mom (she is 81) when she asked me to go for a walk with her.  Back then there was no way I could have caught my puppy if we was being mischievous!!

By exercising regularly, eating a healthy diet, and losing weight, I can tell that my endurance has increased. I am very motivated to continue to exercise because it makes me feel good!

Flexibility – last year when I planted my garden and was working in the yard, my back and legs would become very sore and tired from the bending, lifting and pulling.  I could work for an hour on a good day.  It was hard to lean over and put socks and shoes on.  I would have acid reflux which was annoying and uncomfortable.  I could barely walk the next day!!

I haven’t experienced acid reflux for months.  No problems with shoes and socks, well unless Willy (my puppy) is helping me   Yard work has been enjoyable this year — yes I am tired, but it’s because I work all afternoon and I’m pleased with the accomplishment and I’m not sore the next day!

Confidence – I thought I knew how to eat right and exercise, but have learned I was wrong!!  I have learned enough to be focused in the right direction, but I don’t know everything.  I do know that I have a wonderful support network and an abundance of resources to help me.  I just need to use them.  I am also finding that many people want to know what I have done to be so successful.  It makes me feel good for people to ask and I love to be able to help them.  I tell them what worked for me.

So please let me know what works for you.  I have learned that I must keep learning — new recipes, new exercises, how others meet similar challenges…

I expect to live a long life…. and I need to keep trying new things because otherwise I’d really get bored!!  Come join this journey with me!!