I’m quite sure most of you have heard or possibly even practiced this concept. Mardi Gras or Fat Tuesday, reflects the practice of the last day/night of eating rich, fatty foods before the fasting of the Lenten season.
In truth, even though I have currently given up religion for lent, I could entertain any religion subscribing to this fun practice. (smile) However, since it’s almost October, you might ask why this is even being entertained as a topic to explore. Well, full disclosure–I’m still enjoying Fat Tuesday (since April)–basically freelancing my eating. Why do you ask? Because I can and I stubbornly say to myself, ‘I can do whatever I choose and be in denial that this won’t bite me in the shorts again later. We all have things we can do to check into our level of health–blood pressure, how clothes fit, blood sugar, frequency of heartburn, knee pain, energy level, etc)
Here’s the deal–I’m an evening binger. As I watch some of my favorite news and comedy relief shows, I’m so wanting to feel good–and ice cream or any number of sweets seem to help fit the bill temporarily–addiction to sweets is my demon–so what is a holistic seeker to do? I need to face my reality and here it is:
My blood pressure (BP) was elevated which I have decreased by squeezing a stress-type ball many times in each hand per day and increased my activity by walking further. (P.S. I’ve learned that the upper arm self-testing machines are more accurate than the wrist type–with the manual type being the most accurate if you have someone to help you (always uncross your legs, take on your same arm and time of day). Seek medical attention as needed.
A few of my clothes might be a bit tighter–but I love the flowy, stretchy kind–enabling my denial.
Blood sugar (BS)–even though I don’t have a diabetes diagnosis, some time ago, I purchased a reasonably priced glucose monitor for periodic checks with certain foods as well as a fasting check after I wake up. Have I used that rascal recently? Nope–ignorance is bliss.
GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease) symptoms (i.e. heartburn, asthma-like cough and frequent throat clearing–yup, got it all. Antacids have become my friend since I’ve chosen to not take the “purple pill” or equivalent over-the-counter acid -reducing meds being concerned about potential negative long-term effects.
Old injury and other joint discomfort: check–got that too!
Energy level: could definitely improve.
Even though I’m continuing to do some positive things in my life like meditation, yoga, massage and acupuncture to name a few–not to forget my work with Dr. Lisa, my intuitive MD–is my expectation to receive miracles in these areas even if I’m not fully engaged on the dietary end of things? Yes, says Sherry, queen of denial.
So often it seems that when we get stuck, possibly it’s time to go back to a few basics like those I’ve written about in my “Wellness Warrior” ebook. Admittedly, I need a refresher and hopefully this could prove helpful to your wellness journey as well:
Food Addiction: Studies show that rats choose sugar over heroin! However, that addiction can be minimized by eating lower Glycemic foods.
Eat with intention–at each feeding:
Eat only when hungry. (On a scale from 1 to 10–one being “ouch, I’m hungry” and 10 being totally stuffed–eat to comfort or 5.
Reduce the number of distractions.
Only eat when sitting.
Eat only when relaxed. (Relax to eat, don’t eat to relax.)
Eat only appealing foods.
When eating, consciously focus on the food.
Eat slowly and stop before unscomfortable.
This truly isn’t rocket science stuff–right? However, they’re easy not to do. Here’s my measurable plan:
Print and customise a measurement flow chart (that I will post on my website)
Remeasure my body monthly
Continue monitoring my BP, continue at least 80 daily hand muscle strengthening exercises
Set a realistic step goal with my pedometer finding my balance with the other wellness indicators
Weekly check my fasting BS
Low Glycemic food consumption while eating with more intention with the above guidelines and not after 8 pm.
Progress–not perfections, Warriors!