A new month represents another opportunity to reflect and refocus your priorities. If you have kids, you might be getting ready to go away on vacation. Both these facts can be a major source of motivation as you reassess your wellness goals.
Many women approach summer with trepidation. They dread the process of trying on swimwear and building up the courage to wear it in public. Those already struggling with low energy levels may see the prospect of wrangling little ones for the next few months as another burden.
“The biggest adventure you can take is to live the life of your dreams” Oprah Winfrey.
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As I reflect on the past few years and even the past few weeks, I am thankful for the additional vitality that God has allowed me to experience. Three years ago, my weight had ballooned to close to 170 lbs. I had patients who thought I had been pregnant and had a baby. Swimsuit season was more about covering up.
This is in contrast to a few weeks ago when I went into Athleta on a whim, looking for a cute two-piece. I was so thrilled to find something that fit my style and looked great on my body that I got the attention of one of one of the sales associates to show off.
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While my physical appearance was not the primary motivation for the lifestyle and nutrition changes of the past few years, enjoying how I look and feel encourages me to stay focused. I’m thankful for a level of fitness that allowed me to participate in the recent Glow it Up 5K with no additional training. I also had the energy to participate in a nature walk the following day.
Finishing strong!
With my food sensitivities, preparing for my recent backpacking trip to Cumberland Island required some additional creativity to prepare meals. This was nothing that a little Pinterest support couldn’t overcome. Staying true to my nutritional goals enabled me to optimize my energy and avoid any gastrointestinal adventures over the weekend. Close to the end of that weekend, I accidentally hiked 10 miles. I survived and thrived, exploring the island in the bright sunshine of that beautiful day.
While I don’t have all the answers yet for optimal health I’m thankful for what I am able to experience. I have learned to be kind to myself in the moments where I don’t make the best choices. I continue to learn what works and doesn’t work for my body. I look forward to sharing more details about my personal wellness routines to help you stay motivated and achieve your personal goals. I’d love to hear about what motivates you to pursue better wellness. What’s your #motivation?
About Kathryn Azelia Hale, MD, MPH, FACOG
Dr. Hale is a board certified OB-GYN who specializes in guiding her Cherokee Women’s Health Specialists patients through nutrition and lifestyle changes using a holistic approach to help them balance their hormones. She also blogs at Abundant Health Life.
