Tuesday, April 17, 2012
Monday, April 9, 2012
My Final Questionaire, though my Challenge and Journey will go on for the rest of my life.
Hello Everyone,
Hope everyone is doing ok, healing, resting and catching up post our Challenge, I am happy to report I did 5 classes the first week post Challenge, I'm hoping to keep up 4 plus going forward. I dragged my feet on the final questionaire my head was rushed with tons of information and thoughts, which I had no idea on how to summarize. My final thoughts, is I wish I could tell myself this a year ago..it's amazing how much a person's life can change in a year. Actually 10 months. Actually 60 days!!! Health and Friendships!!
Describe how your life and health changed during your 60 Day Challenge. (Sorry got carried away/bit verbose-warning warning)
This was a hard question for me b/c it was a continuation of the journey I had started since June of last year, it is so hard for me to summarize how much I had changed during this challenge I don’t know where to start. But I think I have definitely acknowledged and see my changes. I am at the weight I met my husband when I was 24; I have not been this weight since 30. That’s eleven years and three kids later.
Every time I try to answer these questions I am overwhelmed with emotion. I truly feel like a “NEW ME” I stand up taller, I am calmer, I AM SO MUCH THINNER and this has been my main source of exercise. I feel like a walking sandwich board for Bikram, when people ask me what I did… Pre Bikram I was a size 16 plus, pre challenge went down to size 12, post challenge now a pant size 8. I didn’t diet, deprive or starve myself; I just got to know myself and body through this type of practice.
Every week of the challenge I noticed my body shape transforming, I noticed my legs toning up, I always hated my legs and now they are more toned than ever (first time ever I got to wear high boots)..At first I thought it was in my head then Erin noticed my legs while I was in the lobby. Every week I feel like I’m shrinking a bit during the challenge that even from behind my kids and my PARENTs didn’t know it was me. Funny part was even Valerie and Nafisa didn’t know it was me and said I looked like a new me and they see me often too. My clients during the challenge wouldn’t see me for a few weeks and couldn’t recognize me when they did see me; they said they thought I was this young girl. I am told I accomplished my blogs wish “making my 40’s the new 20’s”.
I used to hate looking in the mirror for half moon pose b/c of my jumbo fat arms squishing me head, now I noticed it definitely got toned as well as my shoulders. I would say even though I’m not an expert or good practioner yet, I must be doing something right or pushing harder to get the transformations that I have been getting in only 60 days.
Bikram Yoga has changed my family my parents as well as my husband are “Auto Debitors” By doing this challenge it really inspired my friends and especially my husband. We have a yoga house..Towels and mats drying side by side. We eat so extremely healthy and feel young again. I am buying clothes that I would never buy ever; I have a new confidence… how it changed my life??? IT CHANGED EVERYTHING!!!!! Every family dinner with my parents we (hubby too) are talking about classes, the teachers and we even go over poses in the PARKING LOT of the restaurant (FREAKS)
I look back Erin was my first teacher on June 20th, I must of loved her at first sight b/c according to the website I was back at her class the next day!!! I feel like I won already, I got me back (but STRONGER), doing the challenge it also fell on my 41st b’day so it was a opportunity to get to or below the weight I would always plateau at and then gain it all back. I have tried all diets, Jenny Craig, Nutrisystem, Lindora.. This time I lost my weight without a diet, I just got to know my body what worked for it what didn’t. During the challenge I omitted dairy and meat, ate lots of vegetables and started juicing. I have crashed dieted, extreme low carbing too, I would drop weight fast but didn’t look right, Now I would now get compliments that I’m glowing, that even though I lost lots of weight I don’t look funny I look healthy and strong. I now have the energy and calmness to handle my stressful home and work life.. It’s amazing!!
2. What changes have you noticed during your challenge?
I noticed my mid section was getting toned and smaller, I thought after three kids it was hopeless. I noticed my arms, legs and shoulders shaping up too.. I lost two chins also!! Everything happened so quickly in the challenge my reward skinnier jeans are now too big and my pants sag around the butt now. I unfortunately learned I do not have natural larger breasts or rear end, both have disappeared ha.
Even though I lost only 17 pounds during the challenge the inches were crazy and phenomenal. I actually had to take pictures of myself to see if I really did get smaller or its wishful thinking in my head. Now I love to go shopping for clothes, I am gutsy now to walk into a boutique and the sales person brings me “mediums” not “XLs” which were too small once.
On poses, I feel like my backward bends are stronger and deeper. On the forward bend I am almost a Japanese ham sandwich; on eagle pose I can wrap my left leg almost around my right leg. I can finally do standing knee pose, my ankles and locked knee is stronger I fall out so much less now, but pre challenge I couldn’t even hold my foot. I can do a toe stand with hand support on my right leg. I can do a camel pose now and hold my ankles and love how it feels vs. dreading it. I can do rabbit pose now; I can finally reach my knee on spine twist and have my arm wrapped around my back.
3. Have you discontinued or reduced any medications?
Well I’m no longer type 2 diabetic, my blood pressure pre Bikram was 210/105, then got to 150/85 now it’s 110/60. I am working with my physician in weaning off my BP meds. I don’t need to monitor my blood glucose levels.
4. What are your goals going forward?
I want to be a size 4 or 6, I want to be healthy and toned, and I want to remain at 5 plus classes a week. I want to have stronger locked knee, though pre challenge I had zero locked knee ability. I want to do a beautiful standing bow pose. One other goal which I have not shared yet in public. Is once I can get my poses down properly I want to train to be an instructor hopefully someday and help others who were once like me. Even if it’s only on weekends or part time between work.
5. Any other thoughts and feelings about your experience during the Challenge?
Doing this challenge is such a commitment to make it happen, I learned that if you really want to make time for yourself you really can. I have three kids, one 5th grader struggling with homework, one kid dealing with Asbergers and a toddler. Plus a full time job that can go on all hours of the night entertaining clients and possibly traveling too.
I don’t have a consistent workout time, sometimes its 6am, sometimes during my lunch hour most of the time in the last 8:15p class. I learn your results depends on how much you are willing to dig deeper, I initially wore my heart monitor to regulate my heart rate due to my blood pressure issues, now I wear it to see if I am pushing hard enough.
I get upset if I don’t see a stream of sweat leave my forehead after a forward bend. I get upset at myself if I don’t hear the pit pattering of my sweat during balancing series. I know by pushing I will see my body shape improve more and man is it addictive. I also love the fact when you get in shape with Yoga it’s a good healthy shape not a bulky body builder look.
6. What inspired you during your challenge?
My parents, they are so committed and I can see their changes, they come rain or shine and have not missed one day during the challenge. My Mom is super inspiring; she never was so committed to one form of exercise for this long amount of time. She is extremely shy and here she is a room filled with people. I watched my parents change and start wearing colors other than black. I see my mom dig deeper in her poses and leave her comfort zone. I see my dad reading books on Bikram and trying to learn more on proper form.
Don really inspires me too b/c against all odds he’s there consistently and getting better each time. I am so inspired by my fellow challengers, Jen, Renata, LaTierra, Ching (who stays through all her poses now) Miranda, Bernadette, Jami, Regina, Muni, Gabriella, Karen, Sara, Megan, Winnie, Vernon, Tamiko, All my girls in the corner what an amazing energy and camaraderie.. It’s so moving to be in their presence.
My teachers I love you all,
Erin my first teacher you always call me out when you know I can push a bit harder in a pose. You know me so well. You are a beautiful mommy to be yogini!
Val S. Thank you for believing in me and understanding my obsession with this yoga even after my accident, you opening your heart about my accident really cemented my love and loyalty to your studio. I love your classes and love when you give us stories during savasana.
Valerie, you are another amazing teacher I always remembered in the beginning of my practice when I was an over X00 pound student, so fat and barely can move. You believed in me and were always so uplifting and cheered me on even after my accident when I couldn’t do all my poses. I just wanted to tell you, your optimism kept me going.
Jeff, even though I say you are a toughie I feel so awesome after your class, every time you correct my pose, boy do I remember them. Thanks for also inspiring my hubby to really work on his form and keep coming back for more.
Nafisa, man words can’t express how special you are to me and my family. You got my mom to stay and get into this practice so strongly now. You call my mom out, everyone knows them as “Mom and Dad” and that makes you my wise sweet sister.
Miranda, you are so awesome I think you know how much I dig you as a teacher and as a friend. You always make me feel warm and welcomed in class and I always get so bummed out when I can’t make it to your 5pm class. I look forward to more years of getting to know you and practicing with you.
Bernadette, you are such a ray of sunshine..I can’t help but smile when you are around. I love how brutally honest you are about your struggles and victories in Bikram Yoga and love being in your class.
Marta, thanks for always being in such a great mood, even though all of us around you are crabby you are consistently in a good mood and I can tell you care so much about everyone around you.
Tom, you are such a well and kind spoken teacher, love your humor, insight and tips during our practice. I look forward to more classes with you in the future.
And of course thank you to the adorable and so sweet Cheryl, you are such an important part of the studio and I’m so happy when I see you.
Can't believe I'm sharing the below pics, but maybe it will help someone else out there in the universe :)
Hope everyone is doing ok, healing, resting and catching up post our Challenge, I am happy to report I did 5 classes the first week post Challenge, I'm hoping to keep up 4 plus going forward. I dragged my feet on the final questionaire my head was rushed with tons of information and thoughts, which I had no idea on how to summarize. My final thoughts, is I wish I could tell myself this a year ago..it's amazing how much a person's life can change in a year. Actually 10 months. Actually 60 days!!! Health and Friendships!!
Describe how your life and health changed during your 60 Day Challenge. (Sorry got carried away/bit verbose-warning warning)
This was a hard question for me b/c it was a continuation of the journey I had started since June of last year, it is so hard for me to summarize how much I had changed during this challenge I don’t know where to start. But I think I have definitely acknowledged and see my changes. I am at the weight I met my husband when I was 24; I have not been this weight since 30. That’s eleven years and three kids later.
Every time I try to answer these questions I am overwhelmed with emotion. I truly feel like a “NEW ME” I stand up taller, I am calmer, I AM SO MUCH THINNER and this has been my main source of exercise. I feel like a walking sandwich board for Bikram, when people ask me what I did… Pre Bikram I was a size 16 plus, pre challenge went down to size 12, post challenge now a pant size 8. I didn’t diet, deprive or starve myself; I just got to know myself and body through this type of practice.
Every week of the challenge I noticed my body shape transforming, I noticed my legs toning up, I always hated my legs and now they are more toned than ever (first time ever I got to wear high boots)..At first I thought it was in my head then Erin noticed my legs while I was in the lobby. Every week I feel like I’m shrinking a bit during the challenge that even from behind my kids and my PARENTs didn’t know it was me. Funny part was even Valerie and Nafisa didn’t know it was me and said I looked like a new me and they see me often too. My clients during the challenge wouldn’t see me for a few weeks and couldn’t recognize me when they did see me; they said they thought I was this young girl. I am told I accomplished my blogs wish “making my 40’s the new 20’s”.
I used to hate looking in the mirror for half moon pose b/c of my jumbo fat arms squishing me head, now I noticed it definitely got toned as well as my shoulders. I would say even though I’m not an expert or good practioner yet, I must be doing something right or pushing harder to get the transformations that I have been getting in only 60 days.
Bikram Yoga has changed my family my parents as well as my husband are “Auto Debitors” By doing this challenge it really inspired my friends and especially my husband. We have a yoga house..Towels and mats drying side by side. We eat so extremely healthy and feel young again. I am buying clothes that I would never buy ever; I have a new confidence… how it changed my life??? IT CHANGED EVERYTHING!!!!! Every family dinner with my parents we (hubby too) are talking about classes, the teachers and we even go over poses in the PARKING LOT of the restaurant (FREAKS)
I look back Erin was my first teacher on June 20th, I must of loved her at first sight b/c according to the website I was back at her class the next day!!! I feel like I won already, I got me back (but STRONGER), doing the challenge it also fell on my 41st b’day so it was a opportunity to get to or below the weight I would always plateau at and then gain it all back. I have tried all diets, Jenny Craig, Nutrisystem, Lindora.. This time I lost my weight without a diet, I just got to know my body what worked for it what didn’t. During the challenge I omitted dairy and meat, ate lots of vegetables and started juicing. I have crashed dieted, extreme low carbing too, I would drop weight fast but didn’t look right, Now I would now get compliments that I’m glowing, that even though I lost lots of weight I don’t look funny I look healthy and strong. I now have the energy and calmness to handle my stressful home and work life.. It’s amazing!!
2. What changes have you noticed during your challenge?
I noticed my mid section was getting toned and smaller, I thought after three kids it was hopeless. I noticed my arms, legs and shoulders shaping up too.. I lost two chins also!! Everything happened so quickly in the challenge my reward skinnier jeans are now too big and my pants sag around the butt now. I unfortunately learned I do not have natural larger breasts or rear end, both have disappeared ha.
Even though I lost only 17 pounds during the challenge the inches were crazy and phenomenal. I actually had to take pictures of myself to see if I really did get smaller or its wishful thinking in my head. Now I love to go shopping for clothes, I am gutsy now to walk into a boutique and the sales person brings me “mediums” not “XLs” which were too small once.
On poses, I feel like my backward bends are stronger and deeper. On the forward bend I am almost a Japanese ham sandwich; on eagle pose I can wrap my left leg almost around my right leg. I can finally do standing knee pose, my ankles and locked knee is stronger I fall out so much less now, but pre challenge I couldn’t even hold my foot. I can do a toe stand with hand support on my right leg. I can do a camel pose now and hold my ankles and love how it feels vs. dreading it. I can do rabbit pose now; I can finally reach my knee on spine twist and have my arm wrapped around my back.
3. Have you discontinued or reduced any medications?
Well I’m no longer type 2 diabetic, my blood pressure pre Bikram was 210/105, then got to 150/85 now it’s 110/60. I am working with my physician in weaning off my BP meds. I don’t need to monitor my blood glucose levels.
4. What are your goals going forward?
I want to be a size 4 or 6, I want to be healthy and toned, and I want to remain at 5 plus classes a week. I want to have stronger locked knee, though pre challenge I had zero locked knee ability. I want to do a beautiful standing bow pose. One other goal which I have not shared yet in public. Is once I can get my poses down properly I want to train to be an instructor hopefully someday and help others who were once like me. Even if it’s only on weekends or part time between work.
5. Any other thoughts and feelings about your experience during the Challenge?
Doing this challenge is such a commitment to make it happen, I learned that if you really want to make time for yourself you really can. I have three kids, one 5th grader struggling with homework, one kid dealing with Asbergers and a toddler. Plus a full time job that can go on all hours of the night entertaining clients and possibly traveling too.
I don’t have a consistent workout time, sometimes its 6am, sometimes during my lunch hour most of the time in the last 8:15p class. I learn your results depends on how much you are willing to dig deeper, I initially wore my heart monitor to regulate my heart rate due to my blood pressure issues, now I wear it to see if I am pushing hard enough.
I get upset if I don’t see a stream of sweat leave my forehead after a forward bend. I get upset at myself if I don’t hear the pit pattering of my sweat during balancing series. I know by pushing I will see my body shape improve more and man is it addictive. I also love the fact when you get in shape with Yoga it’s a good healthy shape not a bulky body builder look.
6. What inspired you during your challenge?
My parents, they are so committed and I can see their changes, they come rain or shine and have not missed one day during the challenge. My Mom is super inspiring; she never was so committed to one form of exercise for this long amount of time. She is extremely shy and here she is a room filled with people. I watched my parents change and start wearing colors other than black. I see my mom dig deeper in her poses and leave her comfort zone. I see my dad reading books on Bikram and trying to learn more on proper form.
Don really inspires me too b/c against all odds he’s there consistently and getting better each time. I am so inspired by my fellow challengers, Jen, Renata, LaTierra, Ching (who stays through all her poses now) Miranda, Bernadette, Jami, Regina, Muni, Gabriella, Karen, Sara, Megan, Winnie, Vernon, Tamiko, All my girls in the corner what an amazing energy and camaraderie.. It’s so moving to be in their presence.
My teachers I love you all,
Erin my first teacher you always call me out when you know I can push a bit harder in a pose. You know me so well. You are a beautiful mommy to be yogini!
Val S. Thank you for believing in me and understanding my obsession with this yoga even after my accident, you opening your heart about my accident really cemented my love and loyalty to your studio. I love your classes and love when you give us stories during savasana.
Valerie, you are another amazing teacher I always remembered in the beginning of my practice when I was an over X00 pound student, so fat and barely can move. You believed in me and were always so uplifting and cheered me on even after my accident when I couldn’t do all my poses. I just wanted to tell you, your optimism kept me going.
Jeff, even though I say you are a toughie I feel so awesome after your class, every time you correct my pose, boy do I remember them. Thanks for also inspiring my hubby to really work on his form and keep coming back for more.
Nafisa, man words can’t express how special you are to me and my family. You got my mom to stay and get into this practice so strongly now. You call my mom out, everyone knows them as “Mom and Dad” and that makes you my wise sweet sister.
Miranda, you are so awesome I think you know how much I dig you as a teacher and as a friend. You always make me feel warm and welcomed in class and I always get so bummed out when I can’t make it to your 5pm class. I look forward to more years of getting to know you and practicing with you.
Bernadette, you are such a ray of sunshine..I can’t help but smile when you are around. I love how brutally honest you are about your struggles and victories in Bikram Yoga and love being in your class.
Marta, thanks for always being in such a great mood, even though all of us around you are crabby you are consistently in a good mood and I can tell you care so much about everyone around you.
Tom, you are such a well and kind spoken teacher, love your humor, insight and tips during our practice. I look forward to more classes with you in the future.
And of course thank you to the adorable and so sweet Cheryl, you are such an important part of the studio and I’m so happy when I see you.
Can't believe I'm sharing the below pics, but maybe it will help someone else out there in the universe :)
 |
| Day one of the Challenge feeling pretty good already vrs how I was pre Bikram. |
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| Taken the last day of the challenge, can't believe I'm posting this...but slowly but surely getting there. |
Gee I look miserable must of been fighting a cold too, day before challenge. This was taken after my haircut about a week before the challenge was done.
Trying on new reward girly clothes, and the size medium is too big..had to take a picture to make sure I wasnt losing it.
Friday, March 30, 2012
Inches lost and girly clothes ;)
Darn mad i missed tonight's class my husband got a call from our friend and had to help him. I seriously need to find a sitter!
So I measured myself and compared against pre-challenge
Chest, lost 5 inches the girls are gone.
Waist, down 5.5 inches thank you Half Moon pose
Hips, lost 4 inches
Arms, down 1.5 inches
Thighs, down 4 inches
Calves, down 2.5 inches
That's about 22.5 inches lost and down from a size 12 to size 8 pants. Hopefully a size 4 or 6 someday.
I found myself at a girly boutique and was worried I was too fat for the store, I still see myself as an obese person, I was so self conscious in the store around petite sizes, worried everyone was wondering why I was in there. I grabbed a loose shirt darn no extra large only large is the highest, well guess what that was way too big! I ended up getting smalls and mediums. I found myself purchasing dresses I would never imagine wearing, no more smocks and mumus.
I will be in class tomorrow tho a busy day kids have their Cubscouts event.
So I measured myself and compared against pre-challenge
Chest, lost 5 inches the girls are gone.
Waist, down 5.5 inches thank you Half Moon pose
Hips, lost 4 inches
Arms, down 1.5 inches
Thighs, down 4 inches
Calves, down 2.5 inches
That's about 22.5 inches lost and down from a size 12 to size 8 pants. Hopefully a size 4 or 6 someday.
I found myself at a girly boutique and was worried I was too fat for the store, I still see myself as an obese person, I was so self conscious in the store around petite sizes, worried everyone was wondering why I was in there. I grabbed a loose shirt darn no extra large only large is the highest, well guess what that was way too big! I ended up getting smalls and mediums. I found myself purchasing dresses I would never imagine wearing, no more smocks and mumus.
I will be in class tomorrow tho a busy day kids have their Cubscouts event.
Day 57, did CLASS 60!! Whoo hoo
Well did my 60 classes in 57 days but will still keep going to the final day. How nice to have my 60th class with Val.
Reflecting on the sixty day challenge, pre 60 I could not lock my knee out. Plus I had weak knees from a still existing knee fracture. On camel I would not reach my foot. On spine twist i couldn't reach my knee and wrap my arm on my back. Now I can say I could do all the above. I still wobble and struggle but I fall out less and dig deeper.
I truly enjoyed the friendships I had made during this challenge. I joked with Ching we are like the tv show lost, all of us characters have our own personal story what brought us to this practice. I am used to seeing my fellow challengers daily, I think that is the one thing I will miss most after this challenge is done. Everyone will go back to their own schedule and won't see everyone as often.
This has been a great workout that became a part of my life like brushing teeth. I am so fortunate to share this with my parents and husband.
I can say I lost 60 pounds without dieting, and reversed my type 2 diabetes.
I consistently been coming to my endearing Pasadena studio since June 20, 2011. Even after the challenge my journey to get healthier continues.
I am happy to announce I went down 4 dress sizes since the challenge, I will weigh in tomorrow. I'm sort of boycotting the scale, but I notice my body slimming.. My belt now wraps around my waist and I had to make new holes on my belt so I can wear it.
My dad took a pic of me a day before the challenge on his 60th birthday. I took the other pic yesterday to show my friends my new cut. Here I noticed my face is smaller. Thanks to Ching and her photography I noticed my body is smaller too.
Reflecting on the sixty day challenge, pre 60 I could not lock my knee out. Plus I had weak knees from a still existing knee fracture. On camel I would not reach my foot. On spine twist i couldn't reach my knee and wrap my arm on my back. Now I can say I could do all the above. I still wobble and struggle but I fall out less and dig deeper.
I truly enjoyed the friendships I had made during this challenge. I joked with Ching we are like the tv show lost, all of us characters have our own personal story what brought us to this practice. I am used to seeing my fellow challengers daily, I think that is the one thing I will miss most after this challenge is done. Everyone will go back to their own schedule and won't see everyone as often.
This has been a great workout that became a part of my life like brushing teeth. I am so fortunate to share this with my parents and husband.
I can say I lost 60 pounds without dieting, and reversed my type 2 diabetes.
I consistently been coming to my endearing Pasadena studio since June 20, 2011. Even after the challenge my journey to get healthier continues.
I am happy to announce I went down 4 dress sizes since the challenge, I will weigh in tomorrow. I'm sort of boycotting the scale, but I notice my body slimming.. My belt now wraps around my waist and I had to make new holes on my belt so I can wear it.
My dad took a pic of me a day before the challenge on his 60th birthday. I took the other pic yesterday to show my friends my new cut. Here I noticed my face is smaller. Thanks to Ching and her photography I noticed my body is smaller too.
Thursday, March 22, 2012
It's true the scale lies when it comes to doing this yoga
So I posted earlier that I try not to go on the scale and create unnecessary anxiety, but hey I did and still the same if not up a pound from the thirteen I had lost since the challenge.. In class tonight while in half moon I thought to myself my body looks smaller, then I went into denial and said I have body dismorphia.
Just an hour ago i said what the heck and dug into my closet and pulled out dresses and tops that were once tight. I literally drowned in them, darn it everyone is asleep in my house and I can't share and show. Here's a big one I actually fit in my single digit size pants!! With minimal to hardly at all muffin top. That is 4 pants sizes dropped since I started Bikram. I am only sharing this for the folks who said they are not dropping pounds.. It's true, just like Bikram said you notice a drop in inches first then bam weight loss. Hopefully I will get a surprise gift on my bday this Sunday!
Wednesday, March 21, 2012
Locked Knee made it to Change
I wanted to blog today March 21, 2012 four days short of my 41st birthday I did locked knee (on fractured knee) and made it to change, was still wobbly but made it to change. One out of four this evening wasn't bad, I felt tonight my locked knee is getting stronger and ironically my bad knee is getting better than my good knee. Even on standing bull pose I almost got my body to parallel the floor.
I was in a positive mood and was grateful to Tom's positive dialog and tips. Loved the triangle tip on taking the two heels and pushing them toward each other it helped anchor the lunge better. I also was so happy that I am surrounded by a great group of 60 day challengers. You go Ching for pushing harder tonight, I promise tonigh was the only night I wou
D press like that. I just know you can do it.
Monday, March 19, 2012
Day 47, class 50 reflection and ending the challenge with a boom!
I am about 10 classes short to the finish line. I plan to go past my three banked classes and finish with all my fellow challengers.
I have not been blogging maybe bc I don't have great words of wisdom, I have my good days, bad days.. Lately sick days but I'm plowing through like everyone else. I am sorry I can't blog about each pose, what I have been doing is taking each minute and pose at a time. I focus on calm breathing and just listen to the narrative dialogue of the teacher I am currently with. Sometimes the dialogue sticks sometimes it doesn't I am hoping my muscle memory will keep up where my old brain hasn't. I still cuss at my shaky locked knee.
I have been consistent with my dietary intake since the challenge began, eating almost vegan, mostly vegetarian and no dairy. I experienced the deliciousness of natural foods like cilantro and basil, the creative ideas with tofu. I have been suffering from a nasty chest cold, been eating lots of vegetarian pho, yum!
My husband is now an official auto debiter no longer and intro rookie, I've never seen him so energetic, confident and healthy he's been eating clean with me. Our kids are learning from us. See pics below our mats for two, he sprays them daily, our increasing inventory of yoga towels, trying to get more dude colors so no picking on him if he comes in with a pink towel :).
Well I last weighed in a few weeks ago and had a total of 13 lbs loss since the challenge, which will make 57lbs total since I started yoga. In fact my friend emailed me a pic of myself at a charity dinner (roaring 20s, I don't wear hats etc) see pic below. It was so hard for me to look at. I see myself everyday and only my belt and jeans tell me my progress. I have not been going on the scale bc I don't want to treat this as a diet, it's a LIFESTYLE!! I'm worried everyday the weight would creep back like it did in the past but so far this has been my most successful and favorite health regime. You go in tortured and leave refreshed with a clear mind. I have been gaining zits ugh, I bring in extra towels and have Neutrogena acne cleansing wipes for before and after class.
Now that we are two weeks to the finished line, I want to reboot this challenge to a 14 day challenge, we shall see!
I have not been blogging maybe bc I don't have great words of wisdom, I have my good days, bad days.. Lately sick days but I'm plowing through like everyone else. I am sorry I can't blog about each pose, what I have been doing is taking each minute and pose at a time. I focus on calm breathing and just listen to the narrative dialogue of the teacher I am currently with. Sometimes the dialogue sticks sometimes it doesn't I am hoping my muscle memory will keep up where my old brain hasn't. I still cuss at my shaky locked knee.
I have been consistent with my dietary intake since the challenge began, eating almost vegan, mostly vegetarian and no dairy. I experienced the deliciousness of natural foods like cilantro and basil, the creative ideas with tofu. I have been suffering from a nasty chest cold, been eating lots of vegetarian pho, yum!
My husband is now an official auto debiter no longer and intro rookie, I've never seen him so energetic, confident and healthy he's been eating clean with me. Our kids are learning from us. See pics below our mats for two, he sprays them daily, our increasing inventory of yoga towels, trying to get more dude colors so no picking on him if he comes in with a pink towel :).
Well I last weighed in a few weeks ago and had a total of 13 lbs loss since the challenge, which will make 57lbs total since I started yoga. In fact my friend emailed me a pic of myself at a charity dinner (roaring 20s, I don't wear hats etc) see pic below. It was so hard for me to look at. I see myself everyday and only my belt and jeans tell me my progress. I have not been going on the scale bc I don't want to treat this as a diet, it's a LIFESTYLE!! I'm worried everyday the weight would creep back like it did in the past but so far this has been my most successful and favorite health regime. You go in tortured and leave refreshed with a clear mind. I have been gaining zits ugh, I bring in extra towels and have Neutrogena acne cleansing wipes for before and after class.
Now that we are two weeks to the finished line, I want to reboot this challenge to a 14 day challenge, we shall see!
Been living off this soup this week, the salty clear broth helps my chest congestion.
Hubby made a mat drying section in our car port, tea tree oil spray right next to the mat.
Got a little Yogitoes crazy during the challenge but they were $30 bucks.. starting to get more dude colors for Karim.
Yes thinner but covered in polka dots.
Saturday, March 10, 2012
Class 39, 40 and 41 on day 38
Yes I am nuts and paying for it today, I was dragging and lethargic did my Dad's powerade and sea salt combo that helped. Overall the three classes I did ok, except for being a bit crunchy and sore, I would hydrate all day in preparation for the next class, orange flavor Ultima is my new pal.
I am a few weeks shy of my 41st birthday and have my own personal health challenge. I wanted the three classes be my way of rebooting my yoga training. Everything has been pretty consistent so far now my hubby is along for the ride we have double the yoga laundry.. Having three boys we do laundry all the time anyways. My biggest challenge is still balancing on a locked knee. I find myself practicing locked knee while getting ready for work, making my coffee in the morning it's nuts!! Tho I do notice my upper leg muscles coming out. I also find myself practice leg twist under my desk and during business Zzzzz meetings. My energy level has been up and down, but my biggest reward is watching my family participate and get healthier everyday! Well got to get ready for Miranda's class.
I am a few weeks shy of my 41st birthday and have my own personal health challenge. I wanted the three classes be my way of rebooting my yoga training. Everything has been pretty consistent so far now my hubby is along for the ride we have double the yoga laundry.. Having three boys we do laundry all the time anyways. My biggest challenge is still balancing on a locked knee. I find myself practicing locked knee while getting ready for work, making my coffee in the morning it's nuts!! Tho I do notice my upper leg muscles coming out. I also find myself practice leg twist under my desk and during business Zzzzz meetings. My energy level has been up and down, but my biggest reward is watching my family participate and get healthier everyday! Well got to get ready for Miranda's class.
Monday, February 27, 2012
Day 25, 26, 28 classes down, Distance Makes the heart grow fonder
Well I am back from the East Coast, came back Friday late late...crazy flight full of delays and running! Missing two days of yoga I was super eager to take a class, even though I had some in the bank, I went through Bikpas withdrawal...I went to the gym in the hotel but it isnt the same. Doing Bikram Yoga balances my mind, body everything! I see folks go through intense crazy workouts and lose weight to only gain back. Bikram teaches lifestyle change, you go in to clear your mind, to get healthier to have better mobility.. you want to keep going there to maintain the healthy changes. You eat better to have a better practice...and lets talk about our community of Yogis and Yoginis.
All this came to mind when I went to the Saturday 12pm class. I was weary of going in there thinking I am sore and tired from travel.. but said to myself if anything I will go in with an open mind, treat it as my first class and learn/re-learn my poses. BOY was that the best/fun class I ever had...the energy in that room if only I can bottle it..I was surrounded by some of my favorite and probably yours too Yogis.. I was between Megan and Miranda, Karen was right nearby too... so cool. Energy is so important in this practice, that's why they want us to be syncronized, I think we are all getting mid way to the challenge where we get tired, discouraged and sore.. maybe those are the times we need to gather as a group and do a class together if possible..we can drive up the energy together.
All this came to mind when I went to the Saturday 12pm class. I was weary of going in there thinking I am sore and tired from travel.. but said to myself if anything I will go in with an open mind, treat it as my first class and learn/re-learn my poses. BOY was that the best/fun class I ever had...the energy in that room if only I can bottle it..I was surrounded by some of my favorite and probably yours too Yogis.. I was between Megan and Miranda, Karen was right nearby too... so cool. Energy is so important in this practice, that's why they want us to be syncronized, I think we are all getting mid way to the challenge where we get tired, discouraged and sore.. maybe those are the times we need to gather as a group and do a class together if possible..we can drive up the energy together.
Wednesday, February 22, 2012
Day 22, 25 down
I am sitting on the plane on my way to Charlotte and thought I type up a quick blog, I went to the 6:30AM class today and was tired and stiff..didnt sleep well b/c my youngest is sick and part of me was uneasy leaving out of town for work when my kid wasnt feeling well. So I went to the early class so I can get one more in before my flight.. man was I stiff..I couldnt budge then this ray of sunshine came in...Bernadette... she was my neighbor. She saw me struggling and threw me a pack of Emergen C, it was like she threw me a dozen roses... I lived through the class and grateful that I got a class in before I left town..
On a happy note my husband is a YOGI now, he wanted to take Jeff's 2:30p class yesterday b/c I told him it's a smaller class and you can get more attn there. He really wanted to get the poses down, he took my friend's husband (his first time) and he was to shy to go in the front ... my husband so badly wanted to be in the front next to jeff.. can you believe it? I cant!!! Who is this guy, he loved the fact jeff corrected him on the poses and even said his lower back is feeling amazing and that's only after 3 classes, he wants to keep going but b/c I'm out of town and he's alone with our three little ones he can't till I get back.
My wonderful Dad drove me to the airport and we were talking about Eagle pose etc... I love that we have this great healthy practice and we all do it together as a family.....oh no my laptop is running out of battery and there is no plug on the plane...so signing off and looking forward to reading everyone's updates while I'm gone...
On a happy note my husband is a YOGI now, he wanted to take Jeff's 2:30p class yesterday b/c I told him it's a smaller class and you can get more attn there. He really wanted to get the poses down, he took my friend's husband (his first time) and he was to shy to go in the front ... my husband so badly wanted to be in the front next to jeff.. can you believe it? I cant!!! Who is this guy, he loved the fact jeff corrected him on the poses and even said his lower back is feeling amazing and that's only after 3 classes, he wants to keep going but b/c I'm out of town and he's alone with our three little ones he can't till I get back.
My wonderful Dad drove me to the airport and we were talking about Eagle pose etc... I love that we have this great healthy practice and we all do it together as a family.....oh no my laptop is running out of battery and there is no plug on the plane...so signing off and looking forward to reading everyone's updates while I'm gone...
Monday, February 20, 2012
Day 20, class 23. Before and after
Every time I get an opportunity to come to class it's precious, each day there is a very good reason not to go. Today we had a zillion errands, I'm leaving out of town, my oldest is getting ready to graduate Cub-scouts, before class we had to visit our friend who is going through a major battle with cancer and that is after several strokes and heart attacks. We known him for years, he's addicted to junk food, ate very poorly never exercised. I am sure if he can turn time back he would do things differently. Every day of life is a gift I am so glad my family and many of my friends are enjoying it as a healthy one.
Even though there is no Bikram studio where I am going, i still want to do Bikram daily for this challenge. I have Bikram's audio lesson and I will be at the Doubletree in the bathroom with a space heater and humidifier.
I had Nafisa's class today and enjoy it as always,you got to love a teacher who can recite the lesson but be very interactive and have an eagle eye on all of us to have the correct form. Another good news bite, today is my husband's second class, he mentioned in the car that his form will be good in about six months! I say we got another yogi in the making!
In the dressing rooms one asked how much weight I have lost, I say 50 give or take but I also upgraded my eating style and eating more clean. I put some pics up to show what a whale I was... Makes me a bit nauseous that I ever got that big. The sort of after was taken pre challenge about 9lbs heavier than I am now.
Date with Hubby at Bikpas!! Day 19, 22 classes down
Sorry haven't been blogging the balance of home, work etc been a bit nutty. So our home has been transitioning to more clean eating, food from plants vs made in plants. My 9 year old loves quinoa!
So as I started on my health journey my husband ate the same foods, without any exercise dropped 25 pounds. He saw my mom and dad and how committed they are in this journey and decided to see what the buzz was about. So his first class was with Jeff on Sunday, helped him get his mat down even went back row for him. Honestly I thought he would be this panting mess and would sit down the whole time. I lovingly told him prior to class to breath out of his nose and not his mouth or I will kick him ha.
I have been with hubby over 16 years and you would think I would know this guy, he was focused and determined didn't sit it out once and if he fell out of the pose he would immediately try it again. I was like woah who is this dude?! The kids were surprisingly worried how their dad did in class, when they found out he survived they treated him like a war hero.. Im like how about me. Guess what he will be with me in class again tonight thx mom and dad for tag teaming the kids for us. I have the greatest parents and family!
Oh yeah I finally was able to reach my heels in camel go me!!
Sorry if my blog makes no sense I'm typing it up while hubby is driving while we r doing kiddie errands.
So as I started on my health journey my husband ate the same foods, without any exercise dropped 25 pounds. He saw my mom and dad and how committed they are in this journey and decided to see what the buzz was about. So his first class was with Jeff on Sunday, helped him get his mat down even went back row for him. Honestly I thought he would be this panting mess and would sit down the whole time. I lovingly told him prior to class to breath out of his nose and not his mouth or I will kick him ha.
I have been with hubby over 16 years and you would think I would know this guy, he was focused and determined didn't sit it out once and if he fell out of the pose he would immediately try it again. I was like woah who is this dude?! The kids were surprisingly worried how their dad did in class, when they found out he survived they treated him like a war hero.. Im like how about me. Guess what he will be with me in class again tonight thx mom and dad for tag teaming the kids for us. I have the greatest parents and family!
Oh yeah I finally was able to reach my heels in camel go me!!
Sorry if my blog makes no sense I'm typing it up while hubby is driving while we r doing kiddie errands.
Thursday, February 16, 2012
8lbs down since challenge!!! Plus boots!
Work has been busy which I hope will pay off later..so spent Valentine's day with Bikram, Valerie and team! Gave our towels a V-day kiss and I really missed Valerie's class, I forgot how funny she is..love her patience and insight as a teacher..we do have the greatest teachers at BikPas.
Did a morning class the next day and (sorry if you are reading this and you are the guy) but was next to a super heavy breather..he was breathing out of his mouth..my ADD kicked in I made him the excuse of why I couldnt focus etc.. so in that class I was a cranky puss.
I noticed lately my knees were bothering me lately so I'm going to wait a while before doing any doubles. I am trying to keep up my regime on eating healthy not really missing or craving anything bad, tho latenight i do get snacky...but I told myself to stop at 8pm.
I think this challenge is teaching me patience, silencing the mind before it gets overly cluttered, letting the crap go...take care of the body..how good it feels to be healthy!! but as much as I am doing this for health...yesterday was a major victory for me I fit LEATHER boots on my fat kielbasa legs!!! I have never worn boots b/c I couldnt get my calves in them...I tell you those leg toning poses WORK!! I'm going to push a bit further and work on all those toning poses now hahaa. I was so happy I scared the sales lady I made her give me several brands and they fit...they were not brands for fatties either they were for normal people Yehaw! Plus went on the scale and dropped a total of 8lbs since challenge and already dropped 2 inches off my belly... (think eliminating dairy and meat helped) Ok signing off for now got to get back to work.
Monday, February 13, 2012
Double Double and still alive!
Thought I type up a quick update I am at work, waiting for my CEO to finish his calls so we can have dinner... Today is the day I don't want to meet any executive management..my face is covered in ZITS... I am not getting a clearer complexion I am getting a pepperoni face ugh.. I applied three layers of war paint...in hopes to cover it up.
Today went to Erin's morning class and actually felt energy again first time since Friday.. She was great in telling me how to perfect my pose that I thought I was doing right all these months hahaa.
Exciting news for me was even though I am floppy still I noticed my balancing leg strength is getting stronger..you couldnt tell by looking at me but I felt it. Plus I did my first TOE STAND well only on my right leg..the left leg didnt want to chance it with my fracture..but I was happy and also terrified I couldnt get back up.
I even attempted a double..went to the next class and honestly I wanted to just get it over with...rack up my bank account for my trip next week. Ok got to sign off and go to a dinner at a restaurant that only serves meat ugh...
Today went to Erin's morning class and actually felt energy again first time since Friday.. She was great in telling me how to perfect my pose that I thought I was doing right all these months hahaa.
Exciting news for me was even though I am floppy still I noticed my balancing leg strength is getting stronger..you couldnt tell by looking at me but I felt it. Plus I did my first TOE STAND well only on my right leg..the left leg didnt want to chance it with my fracture..but I was happy and also terrified I couldnt get back up.
I even attempted a double..went to the next class and honestly I wanted to just get it over with...rack up my bank account for my trip next week. Ok got to sign off and go to a dinner at a restaurant that only serves meat ugh...
Sunday, February 12, 2012
Day 10, 11 and 12, 14 classes down
Day 11, my friend V came and picked me up and we went together, from the immediate start I knew it was a going to be a rough class for me. I am naturally nocturnal I notice my Bikram game is on better in the evening well, my absence has caught up with me in my household. My husband who doesnt work out regularly or practices Bikram really doesnt understand it completely. To do it you can understand it, for me to go to class I'm gone for about 2 1/2 to 3 hours. So my mind was filled with emotion, drama and anger...plus guilt. I barely remembered that class and my locked knee was a mess but at least I completed it.
Day 12, I aimed to make it for the 8am class on Sunday and my 3 year old decides to wake up extra early and everyone else is still sleeping..so I stayed in and couldnt make it. I made breakfast for the kids and snuck out for the 10am class... I got to meet and introduce myself to Jen she has such a bright smile. I have to say this was one of my best locked knee classes, I buried my big toe in that towel..I made sure my thigh meat was raised above the knee.. I did fall out but not as often..a small silent victory for me.
I love this challenge for the fact of listening to my body and getting to a healthier place physically and hopefully mentally. The one fun thing I did this weekend was go through my closet and try things on and was amazed what fit and what drowned me b/c it was way too big. I got into my pencil skirts with ease.. dresses that were tight are now lose..I have 3 bags of clothes now to donate.. my closet is not filled with frumpy smocks covering me up..but now more tailored and professional wear.. I keep referring back to the little train that could...I think I can, I think I can.
Thursday, February 9, 2012
Day 9, no more diabetes, class 11
Right before I signed up at Bikram Pasadena I had a physical this was in June of last year.. I knew I would get bad news I felt unhealthy, I was the heaviest I have ever been, even while pregnant. I was told I had type 2 diabetes,I wasn't borderline I was full blown diabetic and if I didn't do anything I would be insulin dependent. I felt the lowest of lows, this was bad news on top of all the stress I had been facing. I watched my beloved grandma go through dialysis and suffer a slow and painful death. My kids are still so little. Well I took another blood test on Feb 1st for the challenge but wanted to know what my blood tests says now for diabetes bc I've worked hard on my health. The nurse today said "wow wow whatever is this Bikram keep doing it" I am no longer diabetic, I am not even borderline I have a PERFECT number.. I am in tears over this..this reactive has changed my life in so many ways.
Today I had class with Adam, it was great my knee still sucks but I am healthy and getting stronger every day! Actually today I felt a surge of energy and went 4 miles at the Rosebowl early this morning and had energy for class.. I know everyday my energy would be different but so far so good!
Today I had class with Adam, it was great my knee still sucks but I am healthy and getting stronger every day! Actually today I felt a surge of energy and went 4 miles at the Rosebowl early this morning and had energy for class.. I know everyday my energy would be different but so far so good!
Day 8, TEN classes down straight..personal record!!
I was so happy I will be at my tenth class, I never made it to ten straight classes in 8 days. I was not tired or crampy I was actually excited to go again and get stronger. I thought to celebrate class ten I would do a little yogini shopping.. Luckily there was a sale. Hopefully everything will go fine tonight... Homework would go smoothly, no one would have a meltdown... phone would not ring and something would come up...it's always a struggle for me to get to class regularly I have to be creative and constantly multi task. So everyday I'm in class is a gift. While I was in Lululemon's dressing room in that three way mirror it wasn't so horrifying, I actually fit one size smaller and I noticed my shoulder shape was more toned than before...or maybe it's a mirage and my mind played tricks on me. To be hydrated and have energy I pack a cooler with me bc I am always on the road, filled with apple slices, carrots, water etc.. Helps me make better good choices vs eating when I am starving.
What a great way to celebrate my tenth challenge class with Val!! It was a packed class, folks were lining upfront the door outside. My energy was fine, my locked knee was a different story.. I found myself talking to my knee probably cussing at it. That's my biggest weakness and I am really trying to get that concrete lamppost down. But I liked that Val mentioned just work on the form and you will get stronger.. I want to get there bc it would mean my core got stronger. well lucky I still have more days in the challenge to tackle my challenge.
What a great way to celebrate my tenth challenge class with Val!! It was a packed class, folks were lining upfront the door outside. My energy was fine, my locked knee was a different story.. I found myself talking to my knee probably cussing at it. That's my biggest weakness and I am really trying to get that concrete lamppost down. But I liked that Val mentioned just work on the form and you will get stronger.. I want to get there bc it would mean my core got stronger. well lucky I still have more days in the challenge to tackle my challenge.
Tuesday, February 7, 2012
Day 7, NINE CLASSES down
Today I rushed for an AM class, I've been gone too many evenings and it's so hard to leave the house. Kids finish dinner by seven and I have to leave the house by 745 to get to the studio and lately it's been crowded and I have to leave earlier than that! Plus homework that's another issue, I am not smarter than a fifth grader.
I adore Bernadette's positive and caring attitude, she fully encompasses the Mother Love attitude and I am waiting to score her FOUR quinoa recipes. I found out she was a former corporate rat like me haha. Today I felt my arms and legs cramping, I got tired a bit easier this morning but survived the class and pushed to my limits, I back bended as far as I can go...I hold on to that hand to knee pose as long as I can and if I lose balance like I always do, I just keep going. If I don't see constant beads of sweat coming down my face swooshing out my contact lenses I know I'm not pushing myself..and I'm there to make a difference regardless of how tired I am. I am taking 90 minutes out of my schedule I better make it worth it. Today I don't have a good step by step on my class today..but will share my overall feelings..we are all in this personal sixty day challenge, all for different reasons..as much as the whole year free is super duper awesome it's the long term effect that keeps me coming back for more.
I am lying in bed with my coconut water and watching TV, Jenny Craig, Nutrisystem, tons of informercials on super duper diets are on .... I TRIED EVERYTHING.. now when people ask me "you do Bikram to lose weight" I get kinda ticked b/c I feel like it demeans the practice a bit.. I said no I do it for health and longetivity everything else will fall into place. Bikram taught me how to silence my super clouded mind, to take time to breath and learn to control your breath, not to be overly critical and how perseverence pays off. I love how I am more active now than ever in the last twenty years. I even attempted running..this steady breathing applies to all kinds of sports. I think b/c of Bikram I was able to take my kids snorkeling, hiking, kayaking, swimming etc.. I swam a long way with my 60 pound son holding on to me so he can see that sea turtle I did it, I wouldnt been able to before.
Here's a pic of me and my oldest happy that we hiked up five miles up hill!!
Ok today I have no pictures of my food b/c I was on the road and in meetings:
Breakfast, whey protein shake with berries and almond milk
After AM class, monkey diet, bananas and coconut water ha
lunch, Thai food, tom yum soup, brocolli and tofu with brown rice, stir fry veggies (cabbage, carrots, bokchoy)
Dinner, whole grain bread, filled with spinach, romaine, red onion, tomato, cucumber, portabello mushrooms YUM
Snacked on celery with natural peanut butter
I adore Bernadette's positive and caring attitude, she fully encompasses the Mother Love attitude and I am waiting to score her FOUR quinoa recipes. I found out she was a former corporate rat like me haha. Today I felt my arms and legs cramping, I got tired a bit easier this morning but survived the class and pushed to my limits, I back bended as far as I can go...I hold on to that hand to knee pose as long as I can and if I lose balance like I always do, I just keep going. If I don't see constant beads of sweat coming down my face swooshing out my contact lenses I know I'm not pushing myself..and I'm there to make a difference regardless of how tired I am. I am taking 90 minutes out of my schedule I better make it worth it. Today I don't have a good step by step on my class today..but will share my overall feelings..we are all in this personal sixty day challenge, all for different reasons..as much as the whole year free is super duper awesome it's the long term effect that keeps me coming back for more.
I am lying in bed with my coconut water and watching TV, Jenny Craig, Nutrisystem, tons of informercials on super duper diets are on .... I TRIED EVERYTHING.. now when people ask me "you do Bikram to lose weight" I get kinda ticked b/c I feel like it demeans the practice a bit.. I said no I do it for health and longetivity everything else will fall into place. Bikram taught me how to silence my super clouded mind, to take time to breath and learn to control your breath, not to be overly critical and how perseverence pays off. I love how I am more active now than ever in the last twenty years. I even attempted running..this steady breathing applies to all kinds of sports. I think b/c of Bikram I was able to take my kids snorkeling, hiking, kayaking, swimming etc.. I swam a long way with my 60 pound son holding on to me so he can see that sea turtle I did it, I wouldnt been able to before.
Here's a pic of me and my oldest happy that we hiked up five miles up hill!!
Ok today I have no pictures of my food b/c I was on the road and in meetings:
Breakfast, whey protein shake with berries and almond milk
After AM class, monkey diet, bananas and coconut water ha
lunch, Thai food, tom yum soup, brocolli and tofu with brown rice, stir fry veggies (cabbage, carrots, bokchoy)
Dinner, whole grain bread, filled with spinach, romaine, red onion, tomato, cucumber, portabello mushrooms YUM
Snacked on celery with natural peanut butter
Monday, February 6, 2012
Day 6, 8 classes down!
Whoo hoo I've never done 8 classes straight which included two doubles.
I had a bad headache and felt really sleepy right before Nafisa's class, but I always look forward to her Monday night class, love how she is with my parents. Everyone knows them as "mom and dad"
Today I learned more about HALF TORTOISE POSE, learned to stretch not to just flop down and let my forehead crash on the towel.
My headache is gone and now I'm ready to crash and sleep, hope my three year old would let me.
Folks commented they like to see what I'm eating and am I starving myself, answer is no...I'm a foodie that's not in my DNA, I eat btw 1200-1500 calories a day. I only cut out processed food, animal protein, dairy etc..I'm using this challenge on my food as well.
When I went to see my ortho on my fractured knee I begged him to give me the green light on increased activity... He made a comment about athletes like me keep him busy. I was stuck on athlete! How I loved that! So I am trying to eat as one, food is now fuel not comfort I eat foods that will help my performance in class and take out the heavy foods that would hurt my practice.
I had a bad headache and felt really sleepy right before Nafisa's class, but I always look forward to her Monday night class, love how she is with my parents. Everyone knows them as "mom and dad"
Today I learned more about HALF TORTOISE POSE, learned to stretch not to just flop down and let my forehead crash on the towel.
My headache is gone and now I'm ready to crash and sleep, hope my three year old would let me.
Folks commented they like to see what I'm eating and am I starving myself, answer is no...I'm a foodie that's not in my DNA, I eat btw 1200-1500 calories a day. I only cut out processed food, animal protein, dairy etc..I'm using this challenge on my food as well.
When I went to see my ortho on my fractured knee I begged him to give me the green light on increased activity... He made a comment about athletes like me keep him busy. I was stuck on athlete! How I loved that! So I am trying to eat as one, food is now fuel not comfort I eat foods that will help my performance in class and take out the heavy foods that would hurt my practice.
Sunday, February 5, 2012
Day 5 of 60, 7th class down
Today was the craziest and busiest day and I really didnt think I was going to make it to class today. Today my oldest who is a cubscout had a hiking outing today at San Merrill Trail in Pasadena a 5 mile hike up.
It was an intense uphill hike, everyone was out of breath while hiking, panting..but I was steady and was able to hold a conversation. I really thank Bikram for learning to breath, steady breathing really helped my stamina and endurance..from jogging to any type of cardio..it's amazing. a year ago my heart would be pounding out of my chest and I would be choking for air..instead I felt like "bring it" afterwards my thighs were very sore. As you can see based on my heart monitor I burned quite a bit of calories..but still wanted to go to Yoga..hopefully the pain would go down.
When I got back I was hungry, so here's what I ate today one of my challenges is to eat whole foods and more veggies, cut out animal protein and dairy if possible..
7 classes in 5 days, didnt i just wash you???
When I got back I was hungry, so here's what I ate today one of my challenges is to eat whole foods and more veggies, cut out animal protein and dairy if possible..
Tofu Salad from Sprout, called "Southwestern Tofu Salad" with black beans and corn, it was alright..think I can make a better version.
My little Costco collection, I dipped my carrot and celery sticks in the hummus and yogurt, very tasty. the Salsa is great on salads etc..
I make my "Green Machine" drink with red beets to make it look prettier.. inspired from documentary "Fat, Sick and Nearly Dead" lots of great health documentaries on Netflix Streaming...also "Fork over Knives"
Again feeling mother wife guilt esp during Superbowl, I took my son and his fellow scouts to Panda Express they ate combos, I had tofu and stirfry veggies..then to come home and get dinner together, made spaghetti and Pot Roast (Tri Tip in a crockpot) putting it all together plus a load of laundry...
7 classes in 5 days, didnt i just wash you???
next thing I was in the kitchen cooking, dang it it's 4:30p!! crap it..long story but I made it to Jeff's 5pm class. Here are my revelations for today:
I was up front on the left of the podium, only spot left..I am usually a rightie. anyways:
HALF MOON POSE all this time I had my trigger fingers pointing the wrong direction, I had them pointing forward, you need to have them lean back..like you are getting ready to shoot vrs shooting..I know when I have a class with Jeff there will always be some new "oh that's how you do that" moment.
STANDING BALANCING POSES OMG again challenging, darn you locked knee I will get it sooner or
later...
STANDING SEPARATE LEG to KNEE POSE I usually dread this one b/c I can see all the sweaty fat rolls coming through my Lululemon top..but today I noticed the rolls are not SUV size but getting to sedan size...yah
COBRA POSE to DEAD BODY POSE the neatest thing I looked at the mirror at the podium by the right and my back hump of fat went down a little, I don't look so much like a hunchback now.
FIXED FIRM POSE I always was happy i was able to get my back to the floor, but had my head extended back b/c I thought I was to make a bridge from my chest. to later learn to I had to put my chin toward my chest..double chins time.
After class I felt refreshed and happy..here's to the next class on Monday.. Although I did seven, i really love the going daily, I can feel my body changing, muscles are showing up that I didnt know I had. I am glad our studio is adding more classes..it makes it a bit easier for me with work and kids.
Saturday, February 4, 2012
60 day challenge, Healthy Eating
Aside from my unhealthy donut this morning ugh... I am sharing my attempt to eating clean or eating healthy. The best part of this journey is that my 10 and 9 year old is learning how food is fuel vs comfort. My 3 year old would hopefully only remember his family is eating healthy. No more sugar for me till April, takes 21 days to form a habit so here we go..SUGAR is my KRYPTONITE ugh.
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