You've heard of the Freshman 15?
Well, since I've moved to Michigan, I put on 40 pounds. The sad fact is, I'm not alone. I look around me in grocery stores, at the gym - everywhere - people here seem to be overweight - even obese.
After losing 90 lbs - watching the scale - and my wardrobe as they inflate - has been disheartening - to say the least. I've been resistant to posting on my blog - so ashamed of gaining weight. I wrote a book about the psychology of weight loss - and here I am gaining weight. What's that about? So this week, after my husband gently reminded me that my belly was kind of preceding me - I finally heeded my own call to action. I've taken control.
Step One - I stepped up my gym presence. Even though I'm fat, working out makes me feel better. I'm hoping I can break the cycle of feeling bad, eating, feeling worse, low energy and gym resistence. Going to the gym makes me feel strong and healthy - even when there is a bit too much jiggle.
Step Two - I really tried to get to the root of what was eating ME - and only then did I step back and really thought about what I was eating. This was probably the toughest step because it involved introspection, realizing that I was out of control, and determining that I want to be IN CONTROL. I realized that in certain areas of my life I am not in control. But it doesn't have to be that way with my waistline. Now I'm in position to take my life back. This is a whole blog post in itself. I will follow up as I continue to explore.
Step Three - I acknowledged that although I love my husband, I have not been happy in my new life in Michigan. That may or may not change. But I don't have to be unhappy AND overweight. It's kind of like wearing a big, fat sign - "I hate my life!" And clearly, I'm not the only one - there are depressed people all over Michigan wearing the same sign. It's a club I'd rather not join. So I've ditched the sign.
So, here I am on day 3 of what will hopefully be the road to recovery. I don't have a clearcut goal - other than wanting to ditch the Michigan 40 and feel better. I'll be working through my issues - one pound at a time - and strengthening my body and my mind. With help from above, hopefully I can tackle the challenges.
I guess the one upside about yo-yo dieting is that I know I can do it. I've done it before!
You can do it! I really enjoy reading your blog, so please keep it up. I moved a year ago and about 10 pounds have found me again. Trying to stop it there. You are right, you have to get your head in place first for weight loss.
Posted by: Mary | January 28, 2011 at 09:17 AM
I don't think overweight people wear signs that say 'I hate myself'. I think they have various issues as individuals. Sorry you are so unhappy in your new environment. Good luck in your weight loss effort!
Posted by: Devorah | January 28, 2011 at 09:54 AM
Moving is TOUGH. I just did and could really relate to what you were saying. I too found myself gaining after the move. It's hard to start "fresh" in a new city and they don't call it comfort food for nothing! I'm attempting to nip it in the bud until I gain ALL my weight back (again). You can do it!! You'll learn to like Michigan, I just know it!!
Meredith in hot dry Texas
Posted by: Meredith | September 22, 2011 at 01:42 PM