30-Day Challenge

Today, I have made a decision that I hope will positively affect my life both now, and in the future. I have found myself at a crossroads. I have been doing a lot of growing spiritually and emotionally these past few months…I have also been growing in other ways that are not so wonderful. You see, my body is in a sad state of disrepair. I am at my heaviest ever since I began my weight gain regimen some 18 years ago. Yes, I’m being facetious…. I didn’t do that on purpose but circumstances and medications have taken their toll. I have dieted, lost and regained over the years. Add to this the fact that I have become inordinately fond of sugar and have, in the last year, pretty much abandoned any thought of diet and exercise. I have come to realize that my poor physical condition will never enhance the spiritual me that dwells within. I also find it hard to remain positive when I feel weak and tired and uncomfortable in my clothes. And if that’s not enough, I think I may be having some blood sugar problems. So, looking reality hard in the face, I find compelling inspiration.

After careful thought and more than a few M&M’s, I decided today to give myself a 30-day challenge. One can do anything for 30 days, right? I’m not going to go all crazy and inflict an extreme life change on myself all at once. Instead, my intention is to cut out all sugar and white flour for 30 days and see what happens. Hehe…actually, that is pretty extreme considering – you’ve got to start somewhere. I also intend to add moderate exercise at least 4 days per week. That can mean a 30 minute walk, 20 minutes of beginners yoga or just 20 minutes of stretching exercises – BUT, it must be done a minimum of 4 times per week. Here are my parameters:

• No sugar or white flour: Any bread, or pasta must be 100% whole wheat and in small portions. Brown rice only. No sugar unless it is natural, i.e. fruit. No ketchup or anything with high fructose corn syrup. I will allow sugar substitutes for now.
• Very minimal dairy products.
  Meals will consist of mostly vegetables, whole grains and lean protein.
• Snacks will be mostly fruits and veggies.
• Try to maintain point levels according to the Weight Watchers calculations that I’m familiar with.
• Post at least bi-weekly on my progress.
• I decided to post this plan – not that I exactly have widespread following – I think Tim is my only reader, but whatever. It will make me feel accountable. I start tomorrow 09/20/2010.

So, wish me luck, good success and all that jazz!