Journey of Self: The Journey Begins

As 2009 drew to a close, I started thinking about what I could do that would have a big, personal impact on myself, as well as be something that anyone could do. I wanted to give it a name, something that would draw attention and ignite interest in others. Words like “challenge” and “weight loss” and “battle” came to mind, but they all sounded combative and confrontational. And, for me, doomed to failure. They also implied something with an abrupt end. The more I thought about it, the more I realized I don’t want to go to war with myself. I don’t want something temporary. I don’t want to set myself up to fail.

After much thinking and soul searching, I settled on “A Journey of Self”. Health, fitness, healthy choices, etc., are all very personal and vary for each of us. Discovering the best path is something each of us needs to do for ourselves. You can follow my journey on our blog at http://footepath.blogspot.com. It is my hope that my journey will inspire you to begin your own journey of discovery.

Since this is a journey of self, I’m going to be completely honest with myself about where I stand and where I want to end up. As of 23 February, I weigh 196.4 lbs, which is 6 lbs less than this time last year, but still more than I am completely comfortable with. I’m currently wearing size 18-20. My asthma is the worst it’s ever been, and if I do more than climb a flight of stairs, I feel my chest heaving with the strain. The arthritis in my knees is becoming a near constant pain. Then there are the multitudes of tiny little things that change from day to day. This is my starting point.

My goals are simple: Nordic Walk three times a week, explore the world of the vegetarians, and actively participate in improving my overall health. To do these things I will:

· Nordic Walk Mondays, Wednesdays and Saturdays

· Make vegetables the main focus of my meals 4 days a week

· Plan future activities that involve the great outdoors

o Use my newly acquired “60 hikes within 60 miles” book

Some of the benefits of these steps will be:

· Be able to complete a 5k in 45 minutes by the end of the summer

· Be able to complete a 10 mile hike(no time limit) by the end of June

o Assist my 14 year old in getting his hiking merit badge

· Continue to maintain my HbA1C in a normal range through diet and exercise

With these goals in mind, and my poles in hand, I’m off. Let the journey begin!