It's All About Perspective

What do you see?

Ultimate Reset, Phase 2, Day 13

My perspective continues to change when it comes to food and clean eating. The recipes allow me to enjoy foods I once declined without a thought. These 21 days are steadily changing my relationship with food. And I love it. Though I was a bit tired today (slept a little longer after breakfast), I did not nap. I am beginning to see and feel physical changes, realizing it is about so much more than just the weight loss. It's the perspective gained as well as the stronger, lighter, more able body and mind.
Hard to believe that tomorrow is the last day of Phase 2. Only a week to go, and I am not struggling with hunger or the need to eat the foods I once craved (or at least thought I did).

I find I am looking forward to exercising and eating cleanly even after (or especially after) the 21 days have elapsed. BB just came out with a new supplement group, and I have ordered the Energize to assist with my morning workouts. I usually hate getting up in the morning; however, once school
starts, morning exercise is the best way to ensure daily exercise. Evenings often have other obligations to fill.


I promised the recipe for Nori Gomasio to go along with yesterday's recipe. Adding it below.


NORI GOMASIO
(makes 4 servings - 1 TBSP each)

1/4 cup sesame seeds
1/2 tsp Himalayan salt
1 sheet toasted nori seaweed

1. Heat sesame seeds in medium skillet over low heat, stirring frequently, for 3 to 5 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and begin to pop.
2. Remove from heat. Cool for 10 minutes.
3. Place sesame seeds, salt, and nori in a small food processor or blender; cover with lid. Pulse until most seeds are cracked open. Be careful not to grind to a smooth consistency; you want some of the texture of the seeds to remain.
4. Store in airtight container.


As I move in a positive direction, my goal is to make the best of every day, one day at a time.

Until tomorrow -

New Discoveries

Bisque

Ultimate Reset Phase 2, Day 9

So many new and delicious recipes. Amazing. So many foods that I never thought I would like. Such a wonderful feeling to leave a meal feeling satisfied - not stuffed. To feel energetic and motivated, not tired and dragging.

The Bisque tonight was wonderful and it included red peppers, one of those foods I never would have tried before. The recipe follows:

SWEET POTATO AND ROASTED RED PEPPER BISQUE
(makes one serving)

1 cup water
1 medium sweet potato (or yam), pealed, cubed
1/4 medium red bell pepper
1 tsp. finely grated ginger root
1 1/2 tsp. extra-virgin olive oil
2 tsp. miso paste, mixed with 2 Tbsp. hot water
1 cup vegetable broth (or water)
Bragg Liquid Aminos (or Himalayan salt, to taste, optional)
Herbal seasoning blend (to taste, optional)

Bring water to a boil in small saucepan over medium heat, add sweet potatoes, cook for 5 to 7 minutes. Drain. Set aside. roast bell pepper on grill or gas stovetop. Turn frequently until skin is evenly charred. Place in medium bowl. Cover with a kitchen towel for 10 minutes. Peel skin under running water. Remove seeds. Chop into 1/2 inch cubes.

Place sweet potato, bell pepper, oil, miso, and broth in a blender or food processor, in 2 or more batches if necessary; cover with lid and kitchen towel. Blend until smooth, if consistency is too thick, add water. Heat soup in a medium saucepan over medium heat, cool, stirring frequently for 4 to 5 minutes, or until hot. Add Bragg Liquid Aminos and seasoning blend if desired.

We adjusted the recipe a bit. First doubling it, and then baking the sweet potatoes in the oven. We also broiled red pepper to char skin. 

As for phase 2, day 9, still not hungry or needing to snack throughout the day. I will admit that I look forward to my vegan ShakeO for snack time! I love the stuff, even when I can only mix it with distilled, mineralized water!

Feeling strong, ready to exercise, but I know that my body is working out on the inside right now, and I need to give it a chance to detox. Friends coming in tomorrow. I am sure we will take several walks over the next few days! And I will continue eating only vegetables and fruit throughout the meals. Interestingly, though dinner tomorrow night will include smoked ribs and sausage (and I DO love my husband's cooking, especially smoked), I will be able to enjoy the company and dinner without eating any of the meat.

Did take a nap this afternoon; I seem to be sleeping so much better than I used to. Find myself staying up later (11 or 12) but still waking up by 7 or so each day. I DO NOT miss that nagging tired feeling of never having enough sleep and always feeling sluggish.

Enjoying time outside each day, especially with the last few days of cool, crisp mornings!

Until tomorrow.

The Second Shelf

Moving toward bottom shelf!

The amount of weight I lost this week is about the same as the picture on the second shelf (9.5 pounds and a total of 5.5 inches on waist and hips). Sublime! And in a regular week, even with clean eating, this is not the norm. This Reset works in a healthy manner because of the science behind the supplements and the chosen foods. It is amazing what can happen when the toxins are removed from the body.

SEE PICTURES OF AND INFO ABOUT SUPPLEMENTS BELOW.

But even more important than the weight loss is the way I feel - lighter in general (inside and out). And a fog is lifting.

 My only regret is that I didn't listen and do this sooner! First, I didn't want to spend the money. What a joke. How much money did I waste on processed, fast food? How much wasted on sugary products? On lost time and energy? This is the only body I will ever have. Why do I find it so easy to spend money on some many other "things" when they are unnecessary and definitely not going to affect my health - at least not in a positive manner.

Second, I did not wish to give up the foods I "love," and I definitely didn't want to sustain myself on mostly fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. I don't even like a lot of fruits and vegetables.

So what changed? I wish to be healthy; I'm tired of being tired! I want to feel good!

The kicker? The meals are enjoyable; I am learning that there are many foods out there (especially cooked in just the right manner) that I actually enjoy eating! And those foods I love? I can still have them once in a while - just don't think I am going to miss them that much! Please know it amazes me that I can even say this. But this IS one of the best decisions I have ever made for myself and my health. And I will NOT go back.

On to PHASE 2 - RELEASE
       The guide notes, "you begin to release the toxic compounds that are stored within your tissues, clogging your cells and blocking proper nutrient absorption. This phase includes a gentle colon cleanse. You'll now be eating a fully vegetarian diet."

  The surprise? I don't mind! Day 1 of phase 2 is done, and I did not miss meat at all. Who knew? OK, so several people have told me this (including my hubby).

For the first day, I still woke up about 7, but after breakfast, I found myself needing to sleep a bit more. However, the rest of the day has been great - even mowed the back yard. I am beginning to physically feel the changes, and they are lovely!

A recipe from the Reset -
      I use the following dressing on all my salads (though there are several other recipes):

                  CREAMY GARLIC DRESSING
(makes 10 servings, about 2 Tbsp each)

1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
3 cloves garlic, crushed
3 Tbsp fresh lemon juice
2 Tbsp chopped fresh parsley
1 tsp Himalayan salt
1/2 tsp. Dijon mustard
1 Tbsp raw honey (or pure maple syrup)

Place oil, vinegar, garlic, lemon juice, parsley, salt, mustard, and honey in a blender or food processor, cover with lid. Blend until smooth. Refrigerate dressing if not using immediately. If dressing solidifies when cold, hold at room temperature for 30 minutes. Stir before serving.

Enjoy!

Until tomorrow

         

Something New

Salmon, asparagus, potatoes

Ultimate Reset Phase 1, Day 6 

Hard to believe that tomorrow is the last day of week 1-phase 1. Tonight's meal was one I would never have considered eating before. I am not a fish fan. The smell alone makes me nauseous. But I know it is a strong nutritional resource, and it is one of the meals on the Reset. Therefore, I decided to try. Thankfully, my "home chef" cooked it in such a way that was light and tasty. No fish smell or taste at all!

Turbo Jam 

The week has actually progressed very well, Some participants indicate that they experience hunger during this time. I have not. Thankful for that. And instead of dreaming about sugar and carbs, I actually dreamed about jogging last night. Never thought I would say this, but I am looking forward to getting back to exercising. Have decided to start with Turbo Jam and the new CIZE coming out in a few days. (I love to dance - have never been able to stand still when music is playing!) May start some Tai Chen tomorrow. 

Still feeling a bit tired. So hard to explain the sensation: low energy - yet bursts of energy. The nutrition guide indicated that this Reset will affect both psyche and body. It's true. On the first few days, I was pretty emotional; today I feel a calm, a peace. I no longer get heartburn. Before, sleeping on my side, I would wake up with numbness in my shoulder and arm - NO MORE! I guess with less weight (and I have lost quite a bit at this point), there is less pressure on the limb. At least that is the only explanation I can think of. 

I can honestly say my eating habits are changing and will continue to change from this point forward. I can truly say that I am utilizing a clean eating diet! No worries, cheat meals will happen, but they definitely won't be the norm. 

Beyond the U.R.

Play Day!

Not only did I wake up feeling much better today - headache completely gone, but I woke up ready bright eyed and wide awake at 4:30 a.m. Had an early breakfast and slept a bit longer after that. However, I have had no desire to nap any more today. And I have been quite the napper!

Scrappy was also up at 4:30 - ready to PLAY! One day of my headache was quite enough for him. ;)

Though not sleepy or dragging, I do feel a bit tired, not a lot of energy. I can understand why exercise is not a part of the Ultimate Refresh. Strange - to feel a bit weak but really alert!

Did snack today. Shakeo will be here tomorrow, so I had an apple and some natural peanut butter. One of the great aspects of this program is that meals in the same phase and same time period (breakfast, lunch, dinner) are interchangeable, so if you really don't think you will like one of the recipes, you can swap it for another. I did that today, since I really didn't get a chance to appreciate the Southwestern Taco due to headache, we had them tonight. There were delicious.

I am already finding foods I didn't eat before that I will continue eating after the Reset is complete. This is becoming quite an eye-opening experience. My coach keeps telling me that it is life-changing. I must agree. And this is only day 3. I thought I would be worried about lasting a full 21 days, but not so much anymore. I'm not going to lie, it's not always easy, especially with the need to prep for three meals each day, but it is satisfying.

Oh, and I've dropped 6 pounds so far.

Drink Lots of Water

A clean-eating lifestyle - used to think it was unattainable - just too many goodies out there I love to eat. Just didn't really expect to feel the changes predicted. So glad I was wrong. Will still enjoy a "cheat meal" now and then, but feel so much better!

Can't wait to see what the other 18 days bring.

My husband could say, "I told you so," but he hasn't. (May have thought it a couple of times.)

Getting in close to a gallon of water a day. May start 
throwing in some Tai Cheng- Natural Reboot tomorrow as well as giving the dog a walk or two.

Until tomorrow.

Day 1 - Who Knew?

 Day one is in the books and other than feeling sleepy and enjoying a nap, the day went smoothly and the meals were quite enjoyable (thanks, Matt). And who knew that I could eat so many vegetables in one day and feel satisfied? The daily menu allows for a snack during the day. I passed it up today as I didn't feel hungry.

Lots of water!

I'm sure drinking a gallon of water a day helps curb hunger. :)

The recipes are tasty and easy to follow. I love the homemade salad dressings. Don't think I will ever really want to use store bought dressings again. The creamy garlic we made today is delicious! And it is the first time I have had scrambled eggs with herbs - just lovely!

      This first week - Phase 1 - is referred to as Phase 1. RECLAIM - The Beachbody Guide defines it as "reclaim[ing] your body, accessing its inner chemistry and preparing for change."
Slowly remove foods - red meat, dairy - known to place stress on digestive system

Breakfast PHASE 1

An interesting fact I learned from the program - water can slow down the digestive system (dilute digestive juices and acids). This can cause digestive problems. The fix? Drink your water 5-10 minutes before eating (8-12 oz glass). The idea is to chew your food so many times that you don't have to "wash it down" with liquid as it becomes liquid.

On the Ultimate Refresh, you drink distilled water and add the Mineralize.

The Nutrition Guide explains all of the how and why of the program.

So, I'll leave you with another interesting fact: chewing gum deceives your digestive system and causes to prepare for the coming food - only there is none.

Looking forward to tomorrow's meals.

A Lifetime Commitment to Getting Back Up

I've done it. I've taken the plunge and become a Beachbody coach. Why? This is the question that my coach asked me. Why? Because I have tried so many other ways to lose weight and found that there is no EASY way and no MAGIC pill. They just don't exist - not to lose weight and be healthy for a lifetime. And that is exactly what I want to be: healthy for life. Beachbody's motto is to help others - really - I'm not kidding - even before selling a product. They advocate relationships and truly having a desire to help others along the way to succeed on their health/weight loss journey. Their products are solid, promoting good nutrition, exercise, and just as important accountability.

Accountability - this is what I need. And my being a coach gives me that while allowing me to share my discoveries with others. My coach and my team will keep me accountable and assist me in learning more about myself, nutrition, and exercise. There are some who can manage this journey on their own, and I applaud their will power and stamina. For me, I have a tendency to put exercise off and eat foods I shouldn't - knowing that I need to live the program I have committed to share keeps me on the straight and narrow - and ultimately keeps me healthy everyday, every month, every year, for a lifetime. No more losing weight and putting it back on months later (ever notice how much easier it is to find it than to lose it?). No more maybe I'll exercise for a few weeks then forget about it. No more feeling sluggish and tired. No more harming my body - the only vessel I have to wander this world. No more.

Commitment to a healthier life allows for a better life overall. And I am all in. And all in equals understanding that I will stumble, falter, mess up, make excuses. But it also encompasses a new group of people who care about my journey and will help me, catching me, picking
me up,encouraging me, and keeping me moving forward. What an awesome opportunity.

Twenty-one Days and Beyond

My eyes have been opened. I am no longer suprised by my lack of weight loss (though I have lost a couple of pounds since so far). I recieved the 21 Day Fix today. As I read through the information and checked out the colored containers, I realized how much more I eat than is necessary to get and keep my body fueled. I have always heard that restaurant portions were much too large, but my own portions (even after I thought I was eating less) are still way too large. This new eating program is going to prove very interesting.

One of the aspects that I really like is that even though you use containers, you do not eat from the containers. The food is still put on a plate. The idea behind the 21 Day Fix is HABIT and understanding. It is not meant to have you eating out of the colored containers for the rest of your life but to give you the ability to recognize the appropriate portions of different foods necessary for fueling the body well. Eat this way and exercise for 21 days and hopefully a habit - a healthy habit will be formed. Makes a lot of sense to me, especially after realizing what a portion really should be.

So here's to creating a new habit. A healthy habit. A lifelong habit. For 21 days and beyond.

Dietetic Sinners

We are all dietetic sinners; only a small percent of what we eat nourishes us; the balance goes to waste and loss of energy. -William Osler

Don't know about the "all" in the quote above, but it does ring true, especially for me. So often I eat for taste and comfort (or boredom). This might not be so bad if the food I ate was fruit and vegetables. That is NOT the case. The food I head for consists of comfort food, carbs (bread and pasta). I HAVE TO CHANGE THIS. I HAVE TO CHANGE THIS FOR ME - FOR MY HEALTH.

This is more challenging because I am not a fan of most fruits and vegetables,

but I am learning and even acquiring a taste for many. 

So the goal is to make changes - how?

Changing what I eat is most important (clean eating), eating smaller portions (several small meals a day), and making sure that I realize what I am eating and when - not just grabbing food and munching whenever.

What's worked so far is water intake! The more water I drink, especially before a meal, the fuller I feel and the less I eat. 

Goal for the week - start using my food app to note what I am eating each day. Nothing enters my mouth without thought - am I hungry, do I need it, what will it do for (or to) my body.

With the right recipes and the avoidance of sugar, I can learn to enjoy eating the foods that are good for me as much as I have enjoyed the foods that weren't - and with a much better response from the body I need to live well.