MarocMama

Month three of implementing the Shaklee 180 Turn Around Challenge is almost complete and I’m feeling a little down.  I have been exercising several times a week over the last few months but right now I’m laid out on the couch.  No, I’m not throwing in the towel, but my back is. I initially had weight loss surgery because of constant, severe back pain.  Losing so much weight has reduced the amount of pain I have.  This is the first time I’ve been “down” since September of 2012. First, I was fearful.  The last time I lost a lot of weight, I hurt my back, and gained back a lot of weight.  I don’t want that to happen again!

Even though I do have this small fear I also realize there are ways I’ve set myself up to be successful, even when I am hurting.  I think that a lot of these habits and tips work for anyone who is working to lose weight and facing a hurdle like an injury.

1) Lose the guilt. “Ugh I can’t believe I did this to myself! What was I thinking? I’m a total failure.”  Ever catch yourself using this negative self talk?  I know I do especially when I’ve hurt myself and can’t work out or be moderately active around the house.  Knock it off!  Injury is your body’s way of responding and telling you it needs time to repair. Muscle pain and fatigue is normal with exercise, but pain should not be.  There’s no reason to beat yourself up if you’re hurt.  Move past this.

2) Have a Team of Support. I find that when I stop exercising, I start to let my eating habits fall by the wayside. However, surrounding yourself with people who practice healthy eating habits will help you stay on track too. I’ve also found that they can be your cheerleaders.  Avoid people who put you down or tell you to “work through” the pain. A good support system has your best interests in mind and is there to lift you up – not put you down.

3) Stick with Routine. Once you’ve formed a routine and built good habits don’t throw them away just because you have to sit out one part of the plan.  I can’t workout right now, but I’m still following a clean eating plan, drinking my smoothies, and using meal bars.  When I am able to start exercising again, I will and it will be that much easier to add one component back in, instead of “starting over.”

4) Get Active as Soon as Possible. I will start adding light exercise as soon as possible.  It may only be going for a walk to begin with, but it’s something. Ease back into working out and build your way up.  Make sure to listen to your body and follow the recommendations of your doctor. The sooner you can become active again, the easier it will be.

Have you faced an injury while losing weight?  What helped you overcome the injury and stay on track?

Disclaimer: This is a sponsored post as part of the Shaklee Corporation blogger program. I have received free products, online support, and incentives for participating. My opinions are my 100% own. People following the weight-loss portion of the Shaklee 180™ Program can expect to lose 1-2 pounds per week.