(ThySistas.com) Summer is here and this is the season whereby by many of us want to transform our body. Many are looking for every way possible to drop weight quickly. Some sistahs are completely fed up with weight gain, some have reached weights they have never been, and it is physically and emotionally uncomfortable. All of this is understandable but there are some things we should consider before beginning a crash diet, liquid diet, or an insane gym regimen. Getting healthy is definitely a part of self-care, but how one goes about doing such is very important. Know that weight loss is a journey, and it usually starts with loving you as you are.
You don’t have to love the extra weight, but there has to be love conveyed to your body and person. Constantly speaking negativity to yourself about your body and weight is not self-care…it’s self-destruction. Putting yourself down can really take a toll on your self-esteem which won’t aid weight loss. In addition to loving yourself, you must be fair with your body.
It is understandable to take the position of “if I want the fat gone, I have to put in the work”. However, you must remember if you didn’t gain weight overnight you won’t lose it overnight. Putting your body in a state of shock is not going to help you achieve your goal as you can find yourself sick or injured. Some crash diets don’t agree with the body well. Since the body isn’t used to it you can find yourself with migraines and nausea. When you are unwell you won’t be working out much if at all, and the diet may have to end. This is the same with working out. It is dangerous to take an out of shape body to the gym cold, without stretching, and push past the limit for the sake of trying to lose weight quickly. In doing this you may find yourself unable to walk or move well for several days, or worse case you get injured.
It is important to gradually increase your workouts as your body adjusts to the new norm. you want to push yourself, but you have to respect your limits. If you can barely jog a mile trying to jog five miles can put you in serious pain. You want to be able to continue on your journey to wellness and weight loss and avoid injury as much as possible. It can be very discouraging when you are just getting started, and now due to sickness or injury you can’t do nothing. In that space it feels like the weight is never going to leave or worse that more is gained.
If there are people in your life that believe in you and your goals let them help you. They won’t always tell you what you want to hear, but if they know what they are talking about regarding health & fitness maybe you should listen. If they are suggesting a gradual increase in the intensity of your workout, and they know your history…hear them out. Try not to be so focused on the weight that you are unable to hear reason which can lead to injury. If those in your corner are positive, and constantly uplifting you let them verses tearing down everything they say. Basically, let your support circle love on you, and help you. This is the group you don’t want to alienate by being defensive and verbally harsh. It is understandable that you want to see the best version of yourself as soon as possible but be fair with your body.
Staff Writer; Chelle’ St James
May also connect with this sister via Twitter; ChelleStJames.