So, I’ve been in a holding pattern over the last couple of weeks. My body has gotten used to training at the level I’m at, and my brain has settled back into a comfort zone of mediocrity.
As I was cleaning out my files yesterday, I came across my HMSA “Health Pass” booklet that I received after completing a health profile, 3 months after I moved back to Hawaii. This was startling, because I recall that I had stopped weighing myself and didn’t even own a scale until this year.
In November 2007, my stats were almost exactly what they are today, in July 2009. On the one hand, yay for me! In just 10 weeks, I have erased a year and a half of weight gain. On the other hand, sigh. I was hoping to erase a little bit more, a little bit faster.
This most recent plateau is disheartening. The worst part is that I know exactly why my stats are, well, static. I haven’t been doing anything dynamic. Most importantly, I’ve allowed the circumstances of the last two weeks to dictate where I spend my time and energy.
Of course, many would say that I couldn’t help getting the flu; after all, my whole family got sick. My child has even had a mild fever over the last few days.
That may be true, and it might even be a good thing that I had this particular virus and am now done with it. I also believe, however, that I can take care of my health and environment to prevent illness.
Without getting into an historical, medical or philosophical discussion about detoxifying your body, I’m just going to mention that I’m undertaking an 11-day cleanse. There are various methods to clear the body of toxins– I’m choosing a pre-fabricated system:
Tomorrow, Monday, will be my first “Pre-cleanse” day, when I have shakes to replace breakfast and dinner. I’ll do the same on Tuesday. On Wednesday, I’ll begin the 9-day process, alternating between “cleanse” days and “shake” days. I’ll be done next week Thursday.
Of course, I’m going to shed some pounds. More importantly, I hope to reduce my sugar cravings, my dependence on caffeine, and kickstart my metabolism. I’ll keep working out and making healthy choices on the days that I eat food. And- you’ll be updated on my progress!
Thanks for joining me on the journey!
Hi Angela,
Right on! Please remember the old Chinese adage that however long it takes one to create a particular circumstance, say one’s state of health or weight, that it can take the same length of time to correct it.
You have lost 10 pounds on the scale, sure you wanted to lose more than that by now, but are you taking into consideration the muscular weight you have gained from working with the kettlebells?
Seek balance in all areas, including your desire for quick transformation. You are on a solid path to success for your chosen goal and you are achieving it. All cause for true celebration and gratitude!
Maybe tell Bill that you want to try timed sets rather than counting your reps. That will bring in the need for greater endurance, deeper breath work and a cardiovascular component. But above all, be happy when you are training and be aware that you are achieving your objectives.
Peace!
Wondering abt the cleanse. Why do it? Did Bill recommend it? How did u hear abt it? And why at this point in your journey (vs. earlier or later)? I’m cheering for you and hoping your tummy doesn’t get too unbearably rumbly. Goooooo Ang!
I am asking myself the same thing every day…
So I had to stop.
Yes, both my trainer and my workout partner recommended it. In fact, if you look up Bill Maeda, you’ll come across some before and after pics of him with the cleanse. (Note- we have much different body structures, he he he.)
I was introduced to the idea of a cleanse years ago… in fact, I started one when I was pregnant, before I knew there was going to be a “Kai.”
I contemplated it, but really dilly-dallied over the cost versus the benefit. Now that I’m in a plateau, I think it’s a good idea. Thanks for the motivation and positive thoughts!