Little Changes, Making Progress

If you’ve followed me or my blog long enough, then you know that health has not been my strongest suit. After a series of personal events earlier this year and battling some pretty difficult emotions, I decided to make some changes in early June for my mental and physical well-being.

After posting this picture over the weekend, I thought I’d share a bit about what I have found worked for me this summer – NO methods are 100% for everyone, but these changes are simple and if I can do it, literally anyone can (not kidding around).

Dress is from Torrid. I’m obsessed. It’s also a size smaller than I anticipated I would need. #winning

Step 1. Say no. 

I stepped back from a LOT of responsibilities while I was managing some things. I took on less, participated in less by choice, and opted to spend some time on ME that didn’t involve food in some way shape or form. Learning to say NO is LIFE. GIVING.

Step 2. Gave up sugar. A bunch. 

This was a difficult one especially with summer, ice cream, treats, and delights. But after a while, it’s not really an issue. In fact, the occasional treat can now sometimes make me sick, but I feel WORLDS better without it. Everything is in moderation now and if I don’t LOVE the sugar, I won’t eat it.

Step 3. Drink!

Water, people! I basically drink water, coffee (like 800 cups a day, come at me, bro!), and my breakfast. Yes, I drink my breakfast or lunch. I chose protein shake/meal replacement that doesn’t break the bank. I mix it with skim milk and ice so it’s creamier and it keeps me satisfied. It’s also my go-to meal if I’m on the run, feel hungry, and need more. For my coffee, I’m an extra cream kinda gal, cutting back ever so slightly, but no sugar – if it doesn’t taste like coffee, I’ll pass. I drink almost nothing else (maybe Kombucha) and soda pop Coke isn’t really my jam anymore.

Step 4. I think I’m fabulous.

No. Seriously. You sick of my selfies? I don’t give a HECKIN’ RIP. They give me confidence, make me believe I’m cute as HECK (I am, you are, there’s enough cuteness for all of us), and give me the motivation that I’m looking for. Charlie once told me that just because someone doesn’t believe *I’m* a queen, doesn’t mean I’m not. He’s right. SHINE ON, QUEENS/KWEENS/PEOPLE. But seriously, half the battle is believing you’re already amazing. The rest is just gravy.

Step 5. Music is my passion. And my dancing is amazing.

Just kidding. Before GoT, I basically gave up Netflix and the television. I spent almost ALL of my time dancing, singing, karaoking music to a super loud speaker in my kitchen. I try to dance throughout the day (no videos coming soon) and after investing $25 in a treadmill (NO LIE), I also walk every day. I also try to walk a few miles each night if I remember and/or feel up to it.

Now that I’m about three months in (full update coming in September), I’m thinking of shifting things a bit – maybe incorporate more movement, be more intentional, but for now, I’m focusing on baby steps, how I feel, and the fact that this summer (and this year) have been a lesson in patience, persistence, and learning to say NO to stress.

What are your best health tips/tricks? Anything I can learn from? Add to my routine?