Weight: 143
Diet: semi- gluten free/ vegetarian/ with a splash of alkaline diet goin' on.
Exercise: Yoga & P90X tonight
In the span of 5 days my world has gone topsy- turvy. In a good way. I should have been more prepared; given the fact I kinda knew it was coming. But, I wasn't. Things are not final yet; so I can't spill the beans. Ok, ok... I can't keep spilling the beans. Ya know; incase I jinks it.
Any- hoo, I have really been focusing on my diet these last few days. We had our amazing friends over on Sunday for BBQ & vegetarian dinner (Yes it is an oxymoron- I love that word- oxymoron). My friend, Jalene, is a rock star in the gluten- free/ dairy- free world. She whipped up a ratatouille of sorts that even had my hubby chowing down. I, on the other hand, made a fabulous spaghetti squash. It was my first one ever and I can't wait to try it again. I even want to try it as my spaghetti "noodles" one night. The best part was the roasted artichokes. That we forgot in the oven. That roasted until after everyone left. I can say they had a great caramelization goin' on.
The hardest part right now is the mental fullness meter. I KNOW I'm not hungry, but when I have a meal with out meat my brain keeps saying "where's the beef?" Today is really the full new diet day; although I did have coffee this morning. It was sweetener free so I guess it's not THAT bad.
For those following along on my pain in the neck saga (pun intended) I finally feel normal. Now lets hope I don't screw it up by going crazy on the workout front. I did cadio and abs last night at the gym with my hubby. It was too easy. I should have pushed more, but when you get hurt you never want the pain back.
I have 2 weeks to get "hard core" about all of this. My hope is that it hurts to move everyday so when 2 weeks is up; I feel great.
Check in tomorrow for a new "exercise of the day".
Tuesday, February 23, 2010
Friday, February 19, 2010
Work on the Small Ball
Day 2: weight 143
I love the small ball as a tool for challenging the body. You can squeeze it between your knees for a crazy inner thigh workout. You can put it under your hips for lower abdominals that would make an Victoria Secret model jealous (Ok, maybe not, but a woman who has pushed out 3 kids can dream, right?) Or you can place it under you feet for killer hamstrings while bridging. It's amazing how hard a little 9 inch squishy ball can kick your a@#.
I love sharing my knowledge with my friends, and I have to admit I get a kick out of watching them first- look at me like I'm crazy when I bust out my Target pink and white kiddie play ball, and second- hear them puffing and huffing while cursing me under their breath when I make them finish a session.
So maybe they don't curse out loud, but I'm a mom- I can read minds.
I thought I would share 1 of my favorite small ball exercises. Now, there are a TON of variations that you an do; I'm only showing you 3 of them. These are just the basic format. So feel free to have fun and play around with the movements. Just remember to keep proper form at all times.
This is what you need.
Or this version works just as well.
Buns of Steel.
Lay flat on the floor with your knees bent and feet- hip distance apart. Place the ball between your knees. Apply pressure on the ball. Not enough to pop it, but to activley hold it.
ABDOMINALS ARE TIGHT AT ALL TIMES!
#1
INHALE- prepare by activating your abdominal muscles.
EXHALE- slowly roll your hips up to the ceiling.
Sound easy? Now put the weight on the inside of the feet and squeeze your glutes as hard as possible and push your hips higher. Add 10 long deep breathes while you hold this position.
#2
Slowly start lowering your hips to the floor, but stop 2 inches off of the ground. You should have a crease on the front of your hips.
INHALE- hold
EXHALE_ using your gluts push your hips up to the ceiling. (remember- keep the weight on the inside of the feet.)
INHALE- return to starting position just off of the floor.
3 sets of 15.
#3
Lift hips up into bridge position.
EXHALE- lift right foot off of the floor; extending the leg away from you. Knees stay level holding the ball.
INHALE- place foot back on floor close to butt.
EXHALE- lift left foot off of the floor; extending the leg away from you. Knees stay level holding the ball.
INHALE-place foot back on floor close to butt.
2 sets 10 each leg.
As you do the single leg work it's very important that your thighs and knees line up or match at all times. You are only extending the leg from the knee. The extra challenge is to keep the hips level while you move. Usually which ever leg is lifted; that hip likes to drop towards the floor. Don't let it.
I love the small ball as a tool for challenging the body. You can squeeze it between your knees for a crazy inner thigh workout. You can put it under your hips for lower abdominals that would make an Victoria Secret model jealous (Ok, maybe not, but a woman who has pushed out 3 kids can dream, right?) Or you can place it under you feet for killer hamstrings while bridging. It's amazing how hard a little 9 inch squishy ball can kick your a@#.
I love sharing my knowledge with my friends, and I have to admit I get a kick out of watching them first- look at me like I'm crazy when I bust out my Target pink and white kiddie play ball, and second- hear them puffing and huffing while cursing me under their breath when I make them finish a session.
So maybe they don't curse out loud, but I'm a mom- I can read minds.
I thought I would share 1 of my favorite small ball exercises. Now, there are a TON of variations that you an do; I'm only showing you 3 of them. These are just the basic format. So feel free to have fun and play around with the movements. Just remember to keep proper form at all times.
This is what you need.
Or this version works just as well.
Buns of Steel.
Lay flat on the floor with your knees bent and feet- hip distance apart. Place the ball between your knees. Apply pressure on the ball. Not enough to pop it, but to activley hold it.
ABDOMINALS ARE TIGHT AT ALL TIMES!
#1
INHALE- prepare by activating your abdominal muscles.
EXHALE- slowly roll your hips up to the ceiling.
Sound easy? Now put the weight on the inside of the feet and squeeze your glutes as hard as possible and push your hips higher. Add 10 long deep breathes while you hold this position.
#2
Slowly start lowering your hips to the floor, but stop 2 inches off of the ground. You should have a crease on the front of your hips.
INHALE- hold
EXHALE_ using your gluts push your hips up to the ceiling. (remember- keep the weight on the inside of the feet.)
INHALE- return to starting position just off of the floor.
3 sets of 15.
#3
Lift hips up into bridge position.
EXHALE- lift right foot off of the floor; extending the leg away from you. Knees stay level holding the ball.
INHALE- place foot back on floor close to butt.
EXHALE- lift left foot off of the floor; extending the leg away from you. Knees stay level holding the ball.
INHALE-place foot back on floor close to butt.
2 sets 10 each leg.
As you do the single leg work it's very important that your thighs and knees line up or match at all times. You are only extending the leg from the knee. The extra challenge is to keep the hips level while you move. Usually which ever leg is lifted; that hip likes to drop towards the floor. Don't let it.
Wednesday, February 17, 2010
Day One
So I haven't hit the scale yet this morning, but I did eat my psyllium husk and yogurt concoction. I like to eat Trader Joe's Maple yogurt. It's not low fat, nor is it no sugar; I can't eat artificial sweeteners, they tastes nasty to me. I use about 1/2 cup yogurt and 2 Tbsp psyllium. You could also use oatmeal, oat bran, or any type of whole grain. The consistency is that of Cream of Wheat.
I have challenged myself to drink more water. Because even though I live in the desert; I know I don't get enough. Instead of starting my day with coffee or black tea I am drinking a large glass of water. It actually does help to wake you up. Now that I've been up for a few hours I may still have some coffee, but I can enjoy it verse chugging to wake up.
yes, I have been know to chug coffee. i have 3 young kids. don't judge me; too much.
My plans for exercise today are pretty much non-existent. I am still recovering from a pinched nerve in my back that has forced me to keep most neck movement to a minimum. I also am not able to use my right arm very well. It's amazing how many little nerves pass through the same spot. My goal is to be back in Hot Yoga by Saturday and P90X on Sunday.
I have challenged myself to drink more water. Because even though I live in the desert; I know I don't get enough. Instead of starting my day with coffee or black tea I am drinking a large glass of water. It actually does help to wake you up. Now that I've been up for a few hours I may still have some coffee, but I can enjoy it verse chugging to wake up.
yes, I have been know to chug coffee. i have 3 young kids. don't judge me; too much.
My plans for exercise today are pretty much non-existent. I am still recovering from a pinched nerve in my back that has forced me to keep most neck movement to a minimum. I also am not able to use my right arm very well. It's amazing how many little nerves pass through the same spot. My goal is to be back in Hot Yoga by Saturday and P90X on Sunday.
Tuesday, February 16, 2010
Year of the Tiger- Eye of the Tiger
So I love browsing other blogs and following links to other bloggers. I've had a lot of time to do that the last few days do to a baby holding injury. I was holding my baby and got injured. Neck brace wearing injured. The doctor had no idea how I did it injured. See I'm good like that... If you're gonna do something- do it right. Go big or go home. Sorry, cliche moment. "Squirrel!"( if you've seen UP you'll understand.)
I'm a bit better today. I can actually move my neck some and no longer move like my spine was replaced by a steel rod. But it has made me realize how much I've taken for granted. I assume my body is strong; when proof is showing me that maybe it's not as strong as it needs to be. So like so many bloggers in the great wide world I am embracing the new year (I'm starting mine with the Chinese calendar just to be different) and focusing on losing that last of the baby weight and getting healthier. I vow to stop lying to myself and cheating, because my momma was right "when you cheat, you cheat yourself". I don't know if she ACTUALLY said that, but someone somewhere did.
So here we go. I will list the vitals and all of the ugly truth. I will chronicle all of my success and failures. If I try something new I'll let you know how it goes. Some things may sound strange because I am an emerging health nut, homeopathic junkie, and all around adventurer. I'm also still nursing so I may ned to recruit my sister- in- law to try some of the stuff for me because well... she is not a milk cow at the moo-ment.
Today we will start with the basics.
Height: 5' 1"
Weight: 145
Goal: 20 pounds
Reward: Girls trip to Cabo with above mentioned sister- in-law.
Program:
Weekly loss: 1-2 lbs. a week
Exercise: alternate P90X* with Yoga, Pilates, and GYROTONIC®.
Diet: Low(er) carb. High plant based.
Suppements: psyllium husk, probiotics, and vitamins
* P90X is not for everyone. If you are new to fitness I recommend that you start with something else and build up to this exercise option. While it can and will give you great results; if you perform the exercises incorrectly you CAN HURT YOURSELF.
Philosophy:
I believe if you never allow yourself to get "hungry" it's easier to control the cravings. The secret is to snack on healthy plants foods all day and eat small meals what can include animal protein. I have also found that if I take the psyllium husk mixed with yogurt or oat bran prior to meals I eat less and the fiber works as a cleansing agent as well.
{If the earth didn't make it- DON'T EAT OR DRINK IT!
{Even if the label says "diet" it's full of chemicals.
{Shop the perimeter of the grocery store to buy only the most natural foods.
{If it comes from an isle; read the label. Don't eat it if you can't pronounce it.
When working out the first 2 weeks are the hardest. You have to push yourself to make the time and make the time a habit. Focus one day at a time and know that out of 24 hours you can find 1 hour to exercise. But you have to make that hour count. SWEAT is not a four letter word. Sweating helps detox your body. Sweating means you have challenged yourself. Go on get stinky!
I'm a bit better today. I can actually move my neck some and no longer move like my spine was replaced by a steel rod. But it has made me realize how much I've taken for granted. I assume my body is strong; when proof is showing me that maybe it's not as strong as it needs to be. So like so many bloggers in the great wide world I am embracing the new year (I'm starting mine with the Chinese calendar just to be different) and focusing on losing that last of the baby weight and getting healthier. I vow to stop lying to myself and cheating, because my momma was right "when you cheat, you cheat yourself". I don't know if she ACTUALLY said that, but someone somewhere did.
So here we go. I will list the vitals and all of the ugly truth. I will chronicle all of my success and failures. If I try something new I'll let you know how it goes. Some things may sound strange because I am an emerging health nut, homeopathic junkie, and all around adventurer. I'm also still nursing so I may ned to recruit my sister- in- law to try some of the stuff for me because well... she is not a milk cow at the moo-ment.
Today we will start with the basics.
Height: 5' 1"
Weight: 145
Goal: 20 pounds
Reward: Girls trip to Cabo with above mentioned sister- in-law.
Program:
Weekly loss: 1-2 lbs. a week
Exercise: alternate P90X* with Yoga, Pilates, and GYROTONIC®.
Diet: Low(er) carb. High plant based.
Suppements: psyllium husk, probiotics, and vitamins
* P90X is not for everyone. If you are new to fitness I recommend that you start with something else and build up to this exercise option. While it can and will give you great results; if you perform the exercises incorrectly you CAN HURT YOURSELF.
Philosophy:
I believe if you never allow yourself to get "hungry" it's easier to control the cravings. The secret is to snack on healthy plants foods all day and eat small meals what can include animal protein. I have also found that if I take the psyllium husk mixed with yogurt or oat bran prior to meals I eat less and the fiber works as a cleansing agent as well.
{If the earth didn't make it- DON'T EAT OR DRINK IT!
{Even if the label says "diet" it's full of chemicals.
{Shop the perimeter of the grocery store to buy only the most natural foods.
{If it comes from an isle; read the label. Don't eat it if you can't pronounce it.
When working out the first 2 weeks are the hardest. You have to push yourself to make the time and make the time a habit. Focus one day at a time and know that out of 24 hours you can find 1 hour to exercise. But you have to make that hour count. SWEAT is not a four letter word. Sweating helps detox your body. Sweating means you have challenged yourself. Go on get stinky!
Friday, February 12, 2010
Update
So for those of you who read about baby Bronson; I 'd like to tell you he is doing AMAZINGLY well. He is awake, laughing, and playing. If you click here you can see some videos that his family has posted to share the wonderful news.
Now back to our regularly scheduled program...
Now back to our regularly scheduled program...
Tuesday, February 9, 2010
A little bit of Love
There are stories and people that can touch your life. Some of them are people we know and love. Others are total strangers. The common thread is the emotion that is brought forth. There are times that your heart will lead you in a direction that may or may not be "normal" for you.
This is one of those moments.
While I am not a church going person; I am a person of faith. I believe in God and his holy spirit's ability to touch our lives both when we personally need it and when others need us. I am also a mother who would die for her children. I believe that is a combination of those 2 factors that has caused me to be so invested in this story and it's out come.
I don't personally know this family. My words are not eloquent enough to tell a story that is not mine. I would do the family a disservice if I even tried. What I can tell you is; you will need a LARGE box of tissue.
Baby Bronson
Please don't judge the mother as you read my pathetic telling of events. She has taken to her family blog as the only way too keep all of their family and friends updated on Bronson's condition. Sara, the mother, is also using the blog as a way to remember what is happening. She knows what happened is her fault and it is a guilt that will haunt her for the rest of her life.
Over a week ago (Saturday, January 30th to be exact) a 16 month old little boy drowned in the tub. His mother stepped out of the room for what she thought was just a brief moment when it happened. The paramedics were able to resuscitate the child, but he is in PICU and while small miracles are happening daily; the general outcome is not known.
The reason I am sharing this is because I feel the need to ask other mothers- fathers- caregivers of children to read her story. In theory, we all know it only takes a moment for an accident to happen. But I believe we all have allowed those moments. The difference is in our cases... nothing bad happened.
I am asking for anyone who reads this to pray for Bronson and his family. I know he is not the only child in this world who is in pain and needs our prayers, but he is a face and a story for all of those deserving children. If nothing else- please hold your little ones tighter and give thanks for their health and safety if you are not comfortable with praying.
If you feel compelled to do more go here to see what friends and family are going for this little boy.
Please follow the links listed in this blog to hear the words first hand. Please, if you are touched by the words; share this story with those you know.
And if you are moved please pray for the family.
This is one of those moments.
While I am not a church going person; I am a person of faith. I believe in God and his holy spirit's ability to touch our lives both when we personally need it and when others need us. I am also a mother who would die for her children. I believe that is a combination of those 2 factors that has caused me to be so invested in this story and it's out come.
I don't personally know this family. My words are not eloquent enough to tell a story that is not mine. I would do the family a disservice if I even tried. What I can tell you is; you will need a LARGE box of tissue.
Baby Bronson
Please don't judge the mother as you read my pathetic telling of events. She has taken to her family blog as the only way too keep all of their family and friends updated on Bronson's condition. Sara, the mother, is also using the blog as a way to remember what is happening. She knows what happened is her fault and it is a guilt that will haunt her for the rest of her life.
Over a week ago (Saturday, January 30th to be exact) a 16 month old little boy drowned in the tub. His mother stepped out of the room for what she thought was just a brief moment when it happened. The paramedics were able to resuscitate the child, but he is in PICU and while small miracles are happening daily; the general outcome is not known.
The reason I am sharing this is because I feel the need to ask other mothers- fathers- caregivers of children to read her story. In theory, we all know it only takes a moment for an accident to happen. But I believe we all have allowed those moments. The difference is in our cases... nothing bad happened.
I am asking for anyone who reads this to pray for Bronson and his family. I know he is not the only child in this world who is in pain and needs our prayers, but he is a face and a story for all of those deserving children. If nothing else- please hold your little ones tighter and give thanks for their health and safety if you are not comfortable with praying.
If you feel compelled to do more go here to see what friends and family are going for this little boy.
Please follow the links listed in this blog to hear the words first hand. Please, if you are touched by the words; share this story with those you know.
And if you are moved please pray for the family.
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