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Talking about money can be tough. Some people find it really easy to be open and honest about their spending, what they earn, and generally talk about money like it’s no big deal. Other people struggle a little more with this, and that’s okay. However, you do need to have a conversation with your partner about their financial priorities if your relationship is serious. This is so that you can better understand each other, and work on your goals together. We’re going to be taking a look at some of the general priorities that people have to give you a good idea where to start. Keep reading down below if you would like to find out more.
You do need to have a conversation with your partner about their financial priorities if your relationship is serious.
Big Purchases
The first priority that people tend to have are big purchases. Big purchases can be tough to make, which is why some people make them their priority. They want to know all that they can about how to get the best deals on big purchases, the financing options, how much they are going to need and so on. Generally you find that if this is the priority of your partner, it’s because they are looking to buy a house or a car.
There are sites like edmunds that you can use to get information on purchasing the best possible car for your needs, and whatever other information that you need. It’s important that you try to support your partner however you can with this, because these purchases are important to a lot of people.
Savings
Another priority that people have is saving. Saving is important for a whole load of reasons such as to make sure that you are protected if anything goes wrong. It’s important to have some money in the bank for a rainy day so that you are not panicking if things start to take a turn for the worse.
Saving can be tricky though, and a lot of people really struggle with this. If your partner prioritizes saving and you’re not the best at it, then you either need to learn or have a conversation about it. It’s important to be honest, or else you could both end up resenting each other.
Luxury Spending
The final thing that we’re going to mention is luxury spending. Some people don’t want to save for big purchases and they don’t want to save for the future, they want to spend their money on the luxuries that they want in life. Again, there is nothing wrong with this as long as you are open and honest about it. People with different priorities financially can still have a healthy, strong relationship, as long as there is communication.
We hope that you have found this article helpful, and now see why it’s important for you to understand your partner’s financial priorities. We’re not saying that these won’t change as you get older, or as life throws different things at you, but for the sake of your relationship, you have got to make sure that you know this about your partner.
The first priority that people tend to have are big purchases. Big purchases can be tough to make, which is why some people make them their priority. They want to know all that they can about how to get the best deals on big purchases, the financing options, how much they are going to need and so on. Generally you find that if this is the priority of your partner, it’s because they are looking to buy a house or a car.
There are sites like edmunds that you can use to get information on purchasing the best possible car for your needs, and whatever other information that you need. It’s important that you try to support your partner however you can with this, because these purchases are important to a lot of people.
Savings
Another priority that people have is saving. Saving is important for a whole load of reasons such as to make sure that you are protected if anything goes wrong. It’s important to have some money in the bank for a rainy day so that you are not panicking if things start to take a turn for the worse.
Saving can be tricky though, and a lot of people really struggle with this. If your partner prioritizes saving and you’re not the best at it, then you either need to learn or have a conversation about it. It’s important to be honest, or else you could both end up resenting each other.
Luxury Spending
The final thing that we’re going to mention is luxury spending. Some people don’t want to save for big purchases and they don’t want to save for the future, they want to spend their money on the luxuries that they want in life. Again, there is nothing wrong with this as long as you are open and honest about it. People with different priorities financially can still have a healthy, strong relationship, as long as there is communication.
We hope that you have found this article helpful, and now see why it’s important for you to understand your partner’s financial priorities. We’re not saying that these won’t change as you get older, or as life throws different things at you, but for the sake of your relationship, you have got to make sure that you know this about your partner.
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Laser hair removal is a common alternative to traditional hair removal methods. It's safe, effective, and long-lasting. If you're considering this treatment, you've probably got some questions. So, if you want to unlock the secrets of hair removal, from how it works and the benefits, to what to expect on the day, read on! Here's everything you need to know.
Understanding the Process
Firstly, what is laser hair removal? The lasers work by targeting the hair follicles with concentrated light energy. The heat from the laser damages the follicles, so it stops future hair growth. Laser treatments are extremely effective on dark, coarse hair, but if you have light-colored or fine hair, it may still work extremely well for you, too.
The Benefits!
Now you know what it is, why should you do it? One of the key benefits of laser hair removal is that it's long-lasting! Unlike shaving, waxing, or plucking, which can be super time-consuming and only lasts a matter of days! Imagine being able to enjoy that freshly shaved feeling, all the time! Laser hair removal can target larger areas at a mine, making it quick and convenient. It can also easily reach those hard-to-shave areas.
Preparing for Your Treatment
Getting laser hair removal in Miami is an investment in yourself! So make it a priority and ensure you don't miss an appointment.
You'll be asked to wear protective eyewear when you go through the procedure, while a trained technician works on the area. While the laser works its magic, you may feel a mind sensation of heat or slight discomfort. Don't worry, that's normal, and most individuals find it mild and completely manageable. How long the session lasts will depend on the size of the area you want silky smooth and the density of your hair.
You'll be asked to wear protective eyewear when you go through the procedure, while a trained technician works on the area. While the laser works its magic, you may feel a mind sensation of heat or slight discomfort. Don't worry, that's normal, and most individuals find it mild and completely manageable. How long the session lasts will depend on the size of the area you want silky smooth and the density of your hair.
Aftercare Tips
After your session, you might encounter some feelings of irritation or sensitivity in the treated area. This is normal, and won't bother you for long. However, to protect the area during this time, it's essential to avoid sun exposure and hot showers. You can also soothe any irritation with soothing skincare products. Your technician will be able to advise what products will be the best.
The Results!
To stop hair growth completely and enjoy silky smooth skin, it's recommended that you have multiple sessions. However, you are likely to see some results after just one session! Depending on their hair and skin type, most individuals will opt for around 6 to 8 treatments, spaced several weeks apart. Certainly, it takes a lot less time than it takes to shave every week throughout the year!
Laser hair removal offers an effective solution to removing hair and achieving smooth, hair-free skin, so you're always ready to bare all! By understanding the process, preparing properly, and following aftercare guidelines, you can experience the benefits of long-lasting hair reduction. If you're tired of the hassle of shaving your shaving, plucking, and waxing, book in for your laser hair removal appointment today!
Laser hair removal offers an effective solution to removing hair and achieving smooth, hair-free skin, so you're always ready to bare all! By understanding the process, preparing properly, and following aftercare guidelines, you can experience the benefits of long-lasting hair reduction. If you're tired of the hassle of shaving your shaving, plucking, and waxing, book in for your laser hair removal appointment today!
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Chronically worrying about how you look and the way other people see you significantly obstructs a healthy lifestyle. While caring about your appearance is sensible to a certain extent, obsessing about insecurities isn't. Here are a few practical tips for feeling more confident about your appearance and learning to care less about what others might think.
Reframe Your Perspective
Optimism is often conflated with foolishness. Many people believe that being pessimistic is the most adult way of perceiving reality. However, this is a common psychological mistake. Human brains are wired to see the world through a negative lens for survival purposes, but that doesn't mean rejecting optimism and positivity is more sensible. To begin the process of rebalancing your mind to accept positivity with as much willingness as negativity, try listing aspects of your appearance that you like. Make a habit of deliberately finding external features you admire about yourself, and soon you will realize that your negative self-image isn't necessarily the most accurate view.
Solve Specific Insecurities
In some cases, addressing a physical insecurity directly can be beneficial. Some people aren't insecure about their whole appearance but rather just one aspect of it. For example, if you want to change the shape of your nose, then look for rhinoplasty in Denver Colorado. If one major perceived flaw bothers you more than anything else, you may find that once it's addressed, you feel much better about your overall appearance. Of course, this depends on the nature of your insecurity and your self-esteem in general.
Avoid Unnecessary Comparison
Comparing the way you look to how other people look is extremely detrimental to your mental health. Either favorably or unfavorably, comparison reinforces the idea of hierarchies among individuals that don't serve any purpose other than to cause insecurity. When you catch yourself thinking about how someone else looks in relation to yourself or another person, challenge the thought instead of indulging it. Comparing people based on their looks is rarely a sensible or logical way of seeing the world. Even if you compare yourself favorably to someone else, this opens you up to harshly judging yourself in the future when you encounter someone you perceive to be better-looking. Nurture empathy towards others, and you'll soon notice that the voice in your head speaks more kindly to you, too.
Talk to a Therapist
Self-esteem and the way you view your outward appearance is a complex topic that isn't easy to explore by yourself. If thoughts about the way you look won't leave you alone, talking to a trained therapist might be the best option. They can speak to you about practical methods designed to take your mind off your anxieties and build better mental habits around insecurity. A therapist can also provide much more detailed and personal assistance than other forms of self-help.
When you learn to balance caring about your appearance and knowing when it doesn't matter, you will feel more confident about your looks and your mental wellbeing.
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Do you feel as though your mental health isn’t as good as it could be, because of debt? Maybe you feel as though you have a lot going on at home, and want to get back on the right track. Either way, if you suspect your mental health is suffering, it probably is. If you want to make a change, all you have to do is take a look below.
Sleep Better
One of the first things you can do if you feel as though your mental health is suffering is take the time to sleep better. Oversleeping is just as bad as not getting enough sleep, so make sure that you're getting a solid 7-8 hours a night and then force yourself out of bed. If you are in a bad sleep pattern because you feel as though you need to nap during the day, or because you just can’t doze off at night, it may be that you don’t have the right sleeping environment. One way to work around this would be for you to reestablish your nighttime routine. Take a bath, or even read a book before bed. It may be worth using CBD oil as this could help you unwind.
Deal with the Source
Another thing you can do is try and deal with the source of your anxiety. Everyone gets anxious or stressed from time to time, but if you feel as though financial anxiety is impacting your life, you need to get to the root of the issue. Symptoms may include heart palpitations, a racing mind and shortness of breath. If you want to help yourself, talk it out, visit your doctor or try a natural method to bring your mental state down a notch. This is often the first step to being able to cope with your symptoms. When you’re calmer, it’s easier to deal with the financial worry, with a clearer mindset.
Eat a Good Diet
It’s so important that you eat a good diet. If your diet isn’t good enough then this will make it much harder for you to be healthy. Remember, a healthy body equals a healthy mind. If you want to stop from binge eating then remove all food like this from your home. When you have done that, you can focus on eliminating sugar where possible and boosting mental health in general. This is a great starting point and it may even have an impact on physical anxiety as blood sugar will be way more stable.
Stop Isolating Yourself
If you struggle with a lot of financial anxiety, one thing to do is stop isolating yourself from your partner. You need to connect with friends and family too. Get out and make sure that you keep pushing yourself. This is easier said than done if you don’t have much of a social battery, but with that being said, it is so important to stop shutting away and to get out there so you can meet new people and socialise.
One of the first things you can do if you feel as though your mental health is suffering is take the time to sleep better. Oversleeping is just as bad as not getting enough sleep, so make sure that you're getting a solid 7-8 hours a night and then force yourself out of bed. If you are in a bad sleep pattern because you feel as though you need to nap during the day, or because you just can’t doze off at night, it may be that you don’t have the right sleeping environment. One way to work around this would be for you to reestablish your nighttime routine. Take a bath, or even read a book before bed. It may be worth using CBD oil as this could help you unwind.
Deal with the Source
Another thing you can do is try and deal with the source of your anxiety. Everyone gets anxious or stressed from time to time, but if you feel as though financial anxiety is impacting your life, you need to get to the root of the issue. Symptoms may include heart palpitations, a racing mind and shortness of breath. If you want to help yourself, talk it out, visit your doctor or try a natural method to bring your mental state down a notch. This is often the first step to being able to cope with your symptoms. When you’re calmer, it’s easier to deal with the financial worry, with a clearer mindset.
Eat a Good Diet
It’s so important that you eat a good diet. If your diet isn’t good enough then this will make it much harder for you to be healthy. Remember, a healthy body equals a healthy mind. If you want to stop from binge eating then remove all food like this from your home. When you have done that, you can focus on eliminating sugar where possible and boosting mental health in general. This is a great starting point and it may even have an impact on physical anxiety as blood sugar will be way more stable.
Stop Isolating Yourself
If you struggle with a lot of financial anxiety, one thing to do is stop isolating yourself from your partner. You need to connect with friends and family too. Get out and make sure that you keep pushing yourself. This is easier said than done if you don’t have much of a social battery, but with that being said, it is so important to stop shutting away and to get out there so you can meet new people and socialise.
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Embarking on the exploration to find the perfect pairing for your favorite curry can be as exciting as the dish itself. This blog post will help simplify that journey, offering choices that enhance and complement the rich flavors of your curry. So, before you throw in the towel wondering how you can change things up a bit, take a moment to consider some of these pairings.
Discover choices that enhance and compliment curry
Rice: It Shouldn’t Be An Afterthought
Let’s start with rice, the quintessential partner for curry. Moving beyond the standard white variety, consider basmati for its aromatic flair or brown rice for its wholesome, nutty character, or even a crowd favorite - Pilau rice. These options not only enrich the overall taste but also add a touch of sophistication to your meal - the rice is the foundation for your delicious curry, so choosing the right partner is absolutely vital!
Elevating Naan To New Heights
Naan bread, the versatile companion, is more than just a tool for scooping up curry. Its soft, pillowy texture is ideal for absorbing those rich flavors infused into your curry sauce. To add an extra dimension, try garlic naan or cheese-filled naan, transforming a simple bread into a feature dish in its own right.
Salads: A Refreshing Contrast
A cool, crisp salad can provide a delightful contrast to a warm, spicy curry. Consider combining cucumbers with mint and vinegar or a tomato salad accented with fresh lime. These light, fresh sides are perfect for balancing the intensity of your curry - you know, for those curries that feel like they could burn a hole through your tongue if you take another bite. These salads ease the burn and counter the spiciness, which will help you enjoy every bite from start to finish.
The World Of Chutneys And Pickles
Chutneys and pickles bring an essential burst of flavor to any curry dish. Whether you prefer the sweetness of mango chutney or the bold kick of a lime pickle, these condiments add layers of flavor, making every bite interesting with an extra layer of something new. Make your own or find a store bought one - the options are endless with chutneys and pickles.
Choosing The Right Beverage
Beverage pairing is crucial when enjoying curry. While a classic beer or glass of wine always works well, consider branching out to new more exciting drinks. Learn how to make a martini like this, and your next dinner party will take off without a hitch. The crispness of a well-made martini can surprisingly complement the rich flavors of a curry - sounds a bit wild, but it’s true! For a non-alcoholic option, a lassi is excellent for its cooling properties against the spice - just be sure to make or buy the right flavor lassi for the curry you’ll be serving.
Desserts That Compliment Curry
After a spicy meal, a sweet dessert can be incredibly satisfying. Indian sweets like Gulab Jamun or something modern like a cool, sweet sorbet are perfect for this. They offer a soothing finish to the complex flavors of curry, providing a harmonious balance to end the meal and finalize the night.
Your Curry Pairing Adventure
In the world of curry, the possibilities for pairings are endless. It’s all about exploring and discovering what you enjoy most. Whether sticking to traditional sides or experimenting with something new, each curry meal can be a delightful journey of flavors - you just need to be prepared to try something new and maybe a little wild.
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Feeling somewhat unsettled by the prospect of moving into a new home is normal. Each step, from selling your current property to moving into your new one comes with plenty of opportunity for stress and anxiety. However, that doesn't mean you can't prepare for the challenge and set yourself up for success. Here you will find a few useful tips on how to manage the stress of moving without denying how you feel or letting anxiety stop you from living your life.
Pinpoint Your Specific Stressors
What normally triggers your anxiety response? Can you identify specific parts of moving home that are most likely to cause you stress? For some people, the paperwork involved is far more daunting than the practical side such as packing and unpacking. Knowing in advance what it is that might cause you stress puts you in a better position to handle these difficult feelings as they arise. Anticipate their occurrence and prepare yourself with mindful tactics and a clearer perspective on each situation.
Seek Expert Input
Taking the pressure off yourself throughout the moving process will give you breathing room and time to think between tasks. For example, trying to sell your current property can be more challenging than first expected, so contacting experts such as realtors and solicitors is helpful. With an approximate house valuation, reliable housing market research, and strategies for attracting buyers, you will be better equipped to complete your sale smoothly. This will give you peace of mind that the moving process doesn't have to be stressful or overly complicated. Having professionals to seek guidance will reassure you that the selling and buying process is handled properly at each stage.
Stay as Organized as Possible
No matter what it is about moving that stresses you out, whether it's the legal side or the many possible instances of disappointment, you can reduce chances for error by being exceptionally organized. This means keeping all documents neatly categorized, both digital and physical. Label your boxes, pack with intention, and anticipate each step before it arrives.
Accept Natural Discomfort
While avoiding some stress is worthwhile, there is some stress that is a natural part of moving home. Instead of worrying about what might make you stressed, learn to accept that stress is a part of the process, and it can be helpful for completing important tasks by providing motivation.
With the right attitude and an effective approach, you can tackle the challenge of moving home without causing yourself undue stress. Of course, major life events like living in a new place come with their share of anxieties, but it is possible to manage these feelings without letting them overwhelm you and get in the way of the positives. By identifying the likely causes of your stress, you can quickly address the issues and resolve your discomfort. Property experts can help you keep the process simple and straightforward, giving you more time to focus on maintaining good mental health while preparing your home and yourself for the move.
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When most people think of taking care of their health, their physical and mental health will be what comes to mind. While it’s always worth putting effort into these, they’re not the only ones you should think of.
You should also look after your sexual health.
It’s an essential part of being intimate while also keeping yourself as healthy as possible. Thankfully, it doesn’t have to be complicated. With a little bit of effort, you shouldn’t have anything to worry about.
You should also look after your sexual health.
It’s an essential part of being intimate while also keeping yourself as healthy as possible. Thankfully, it doesn’t have to be complicated. With a little bit of effort, you shouldn’t have anything to worry about.
Looking After Your Sexual Health Doesn't Have To Be Complicated
Look After Your Sexual Health: 3 Top Tips
1. Be Open With Your Partner
If you have a partner, then you should be open with them about your sexual health. It’s also worth expecting the same in return. Sexual history, potential conditions, and other factors should play a role in this conversation. Then there’s expectations, proper communication, and other factors to consider.
The more open and transparent you are with your partner, the better you can look after your sexual health. That’s especially true when the topic turns to protection and similar factors. You’ve no reason not to sit down with your partner and actually talk to them about everything.
2. Be Safe With Experimentation
Speaking of talking to your partner, you could end up talking about experimenting. That’s a natural part of almost every relationship. You could be looking into toys for men, for example. As natural as this is, make sure you keep safety in mind when you’re doing this.
Go slowly with your experimentation, and you shouldn’t have to worry about anything. Knowing best practices and similar information makes sure nothing happens to make your sexual health suffer. Be as informed as possible, and you shouldn’t have anything to worry about.
Like most things, it’s better to be safe than sorry.
3. Get Tested Regularly
While this tip relates to your overall health in general, too, it can still refer to your sexual health. It’s worth making sure you’re as healthy as possible, which means getting a few specific tests done. That’s especially true if you notice something isn’t the way it should be.
Thankfully, these tests are quick and painless, so you shouldn’t have anything to worry about. On the off-chance something comes up, you’ll be put on a treatment and it’ll be taken care of faster than you’d think. You’ve no reason not to spend a little bit of time on this.
Look After Your Sexual Health: Wrapping Up
You need to look after your sexual health, especially when you have a partner. While many people think this is complicated, it doesn’t have to be. It can be easier than you’d think. You’ll simply need to focus on a few notable areas, many of which are easier to get through than you’d think.
Your health is multifaceted, and you’ll need to look after quite a few things to look after it. Alongside your sexual health, put the effort into your physical and mental health, too. Taking a holistic approach makes sure you’re as healthy as possible.
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My Battle with Obesity
An article written by Frank Kermit
Published in The Suburban Newspaper
Published in The Suburban Newspaper
My dear friends,
I had written an article on My Battle With Obesity for The Suburban Newspaper.
The article appeared on page 23, of the Wednesday November 8th edition.
As you can see in the photos below, a caption and photo of me appeared on the gatefold front cover as well.
It was a truly magical moment.
Here in are the images of my story in the newspaper, as well as the full article I wrote, unedited.
-Frank Kermit
I had written an article on My Battle With Obesity for The Suburban Newspaper.
The article appeared on page 23, of the Wednesday November 8th edition.
As you can see in the photos below, a caption and photo of me appeared on the gatefold front cover as well.
It was a truly magical moment.
Here in are the images of my story in the newspaper, as well as the full article I wrote, unedited.
-Frank Kermit
In April 2020 I got a call from my doctor that would change my life forever. I was 460 lbs unable to walk and did not see any way out. It was the beginnings of Covid, and we were into the first lock down. Doctor told me I had Type II Diabetes. Time stood still. I had hit my rock bottom.
Something happened to me that day. I made my health my number 1 priority. This meant anything that was going to help my health goals stayed and anything that worked against me had to go. Sometimes this meant giving up doing things I really loved because they were triggering for me, and I needed to avoid my triggers while I worked on my ability to withstand them.
First thing I did was write out a list of reasons I needed to lose weight. I have added more reasons as I discover them (and I am still adding items to that list today). At last count I had 160 reasons to lose weight. Those reasons included feet pain, diabetes, slim enough to fit in a train bathroom, and fit in a movie theatre seat. After that I started to do therapy, got bariatric surgery and changed my repeating behavior patterns related to obesity.
When I first started, I was still struggling to move, so my main exercise was chair-cercise. I would watch videos of songs (usually uplifting motivational songs, songs from my childhood, TV show theme songs, cartoon movie songs, etc.…you get the idea) and all the while moving my arms and body as much as I could so that I would get a good work out sweat. I did this every day, multiple times a day…anything I could to end this nightmare of a life I have created for myself.
A life changing moment for me is when I discovered that the chronic pain I was in, was not a result of my obesity. I got a job that was physical and needed support gear. Once I got orthotics for my work boots (and other support gear). I noticed a change right away. My feet did not hurt as much. I now know the difference between my feet being “tired” (like a normal person experiences) and my feet being in pain.
All my life, I have had incredible foot pain, and every doctor told me that if I lost weight the pain would stop. Not even one ever referred me to a podiatrist or suggested orthotics. Turns out when I lost a lot of weight, my feet STILL hurt. It was never because I was fat! I am still so angry about that.
That is when I learned the most powerful lesson in my weight loss journey:
My body wasn’t in pain because I was obese. I was obese because my body was in pain.
I cannot fully express to you how HUGE this revelation was. Suddenly I saw my entire life in a new way. This was the biggest mental shift of my mental health recovery.
Obesity was not the source of all my problems. Obesity was the symptom of what my actual problems were…problems I did not know how to cope with so, I turned to food, my drug of choice. Just like any addict, the addiction is not the problem; the addiction was the means I sought to cope with whatever my core hurts were.
I was not: in chronic pain, depressed, anxious, enraged, grieving, unwanted, unloved and hated myself because I was obese. I was obese because I was: in chronic pain, depressed, anxious, enraged, grieving, unwanted, unloved and hated myself.
Obesity is NOT the problem. Obesity is the SYMPTOM of the problem.
I never saw myself or my weight problems the same way again. I discovered that a lot of my food related repeating behavior patterns was a result of how I used food to cope. This helped me understand why losing weight and exercising were so difficult for me to maintain.
I have kept the weight off ever since. That was over a year ago.
Today, I am still about 250 lbs, diabetes in remission, and off most of medications. Today I eat an 80% plant-based diet, and I can walk without a cane. Today I work a full-time job physical job clocking in about 8000 steps a day. Today I have a more active social life with my family, I fit in movie theatre seats and fit through the turnstiles at the metro stations. I still have 50 lbs to go, but the eventual skin removal surgery will knock off about 25-30 lbs of that and spare me the chronic back pain.
For the first time I am finding my bliss. I am starting to learn who I was meant to be before childhood traumas altered my nervous system. I am discovering my normal. It is both exhilarating and terrifying and feels unreal.
After healing some of my trauma, something lifted for me, and I decided learn singing. I want to form my own Barbershop Quartet and sing TV show theme songs and perform at conventions. One day I want to sing the national anthem for the HABS, the Alouettes, CF Montreal and F1. In the meantime, I keep practicing for my first ever major singing event with the South Shore Saints Barbershop Chorus taking the stage on Saturday November 18th in Saint-Lambert for their Annual Show. If you would like to join me in this experience, please visit SouthShoreSaints.com for tickets.
Want to know the scary part? I could easily go back to where I first started if I am not ever vigilant every day; I could very easily balloon again to 500+ lbs. Just like any addict (yes, I am a food addict), I must live life one day at a time and make a conscious choice each day, not to allow myself to go back. That is what Obese Recovery takes.
Something happened to me that day. I made my health my number 1 priority. This meant anything that was going to help my health goals stayed and anything that worked against me had to go. Sometimes this meant giving up doing things I really loved because they were triggering for me, and I needed to avoid my triggers while I worked on my ability to withstand them.
First thing I did was write out a list of reasons I needed to lose weight. I have added more reasons as I discover them (and I am still adding items to that list today). At last count I had 160 reasons to lose weight. Those reasons included feet pain, diabetes, slim enough to fit in a train bathroom, and fit in a movie theatre seat. After that I started to do therapy, got bariatric surgery and changed my repeating behavior patterns related to obesity.
When I first started, I was still struggling to move, so my main exercise was chair-cercise. I would watch videos of songs (usually uplifting motivational songs, songs from my childhood, TV show theme songs, cartoon movie songs, etc.…you get the idea) and all the while moving my arms and body as much as I could so that I would get a good work out sweat. I did this every day, multiple times a day…anything I could to end this nightmare of a life I have created for myself.
A life changing moment for me is when I discovered that the chronic pain I was in, was not a result of my obesity. I got a job that was physical and needed support gear. Once I got orthotics for my work boots (and other support gear). I noticed a change right away. My feet did not hurt as much. I now know the difference between my feet being “tired” (like a normal person experiences) and my feet being in pain.
All my life, I have had incredible foot pain, and every doctor told me that if I lost weight the pain would stop. Not even one ever referred me to a podiatrist or suggested orthotics. Turns out when I lost a lot of weight, my feet STILL hurt. It was never because I was fat! I am still so angry about that.
That is when I learned the most powerful lesson in my weight loss journey:
My body wasn’t in pain because I was obese. I was obese because my body was in pain.
I cannot fully express to you how HUGE this revelation was. Suddenly I saw my entire life in a new way. This was the biggest mental shift of my mental health recovery.
Obesity was not the source of all my problems. Obesity was the symptom of what my actual problems were…problems I did not know how to cope with so, I turned to food, my drug of choice. Just like any addict, the addiction is not the problem; the addiction was the means I sought to cope with whatever my core hurts were.
I was not: in chronic pain, depressed, anxious, enraged, grieving, unwanted, unloved and hated myself because I was obese. I was obese because I was: in chronic pain, depressed, anxious, enraged, grieving, unwanted, unloved and hated myself.
Obesity is NOT the problem. Obesity is the SYMPTOM of the problem.
I never saw myself or my weight problems the same way again. I discovered that a lot of my food related repeating behavior patterns was a result of how I used food to cope. This helped me understand why losing weight and exercising were so difficult for me to maintain.
I have kept the weight off ever since. That was over a year ago.
Today, I am still about 250 lbs, diabetes in remission, and off most of medications. Today I eat an 80% plant-based diet, and I can walk without a cane. Today I work a full-time job physical job clocking in about 8000 steps a day. Today I have a more active social life with my family, I fit in movie theatre seats and fit through the turnstiles at the metro stations. I still have 50 lbs to go, but the eventual skin removal surgery will knock off about 25-30 lbs of that and spare me the chronic back pain.
For the first time I am finding my bliss. I am starting to learn who I was meant to be before childhood traumas altered my nervous system. I am discovering my normal. It is both exhilarating and terrifying and feels unreal.
After healing some of my trauma, something lifted for me, and I decided learn singing. I want to form my own Barbershop Quartet and sing TV show theme songs and perform at conventions. One day I want to sing the national anthem for the HABS, the Alouettes, CF Montreal and F1. In the meantime, I keep practicing for my first ever major singing event with the South Shore Saints Barbershop Chorus taking the stage on Saturday November 18th in Saint-Lambert for their Annual Show. If you would like to join me in this experience, please visit SouthShoreSaints.com for tickets.
Want to know the scary part? I could easily go back to where I first started if I am not ever vigilant every day; I could very easily balloon again to 500+ lbs. Just like any addict (yes, I am a food addict), I must live life one day at a time and make a conscious choice each day, not to allow myself to go back. That is what Obese Recovery takes.
- Published on
Written by Bella Reilly of Well Now Shop
Being proactive and taking charge of your own health is essential for a long and happy life. But how do you go about doing this? Many steps should be taken to become an advocate for yourself and your own health. Here are some tips.
Speak Up and Make Yourself Heard
The first step to advocating for your health is by speaking up, making sure you’re heard and asking questions if there’s something you don’t understand or agree with. This can be intimidating at times, but it is a must when it comes to taking control of your healthcare. As Reader’s Digest points out, you are the customer—it is the doctor’s job to be respectful and give you the best care possible based on your individual needs.
Utilize Technology
Technology has become such an integral part of our lives today, so why not take advantage of it when it comes to staying healthy? Keeping track of things like blood pressure, weight changes, diet information, sleep patterns and even stress levels can be done very easily through a variety of apps available online. Staying organized with all of this information allows you to better monitor any trends or changes in your overall health over time.
Document Everything
When dealing with a medical issue or illness, it is important to document each doctor's visit so that everyone can stay on the same page regarding your health concerns. Create a folder specifically for medical documentation so that if it’s needed during a future appointment, it can be easily accessed for reference. Always make sure that you keep a list of prescriptions and test results in this folder as well.
Live Healthier
By being proactive and making small changes to diet and exercise habits, individuals can prevent future health issues, decrease their healthcare costs, and positively impact their overall well-being. Start by avoiding sugary snacks and drinks. You can also make time for more movement by taking the stairs (instead of the elevator or escalator) whenever possible.
Improve Your Home's Health With Deep Cleaning and Air-
Purifying Plants
Creating a healthy living environment should also play an important role in managing one’s overall wellbeing. Start by deep cleaning around the house - headboards, bedding curtains and carpets should all be vacuumed regularly (at least once every couple weeks). And don’t forget about air-purifying plants! They help remove toxins from the air while providing some nice greenery and natural oxygen within your home which can help improve the quality of sleep significantly as well as reduce stress levels significantly as well.
Establish Connections With Healthcare Professionals
Having reliable connections with healthcare professionals who specialize in fields related to one's individual needs can prove vital, especially when specific advice or treatment is required regarding health issues. This is especially true with providers not covered under primary care. Researching local doctors and healthcare professionals who match one’s specific needs should be considered early on when developing an advocacy plan for one's own well-being.
Verify In Advance What Your Insurance Covers
It is always advisable to know what services are covered (and not covered) under one's insurance policy before seeing a physician or going ahead with any treatments recommended by them. Since there may be out-of-pocket costs associated with certain treatments or medications, make inquiries in advance so those expenses don't surprise you later down the road in the form of bills from your provider. Taking time before appointments or treatments will ensure we feel financially secure afterwards knowing all expenses have been accounted for ahead of time. We all deserve access to proper healthcare; being informed about our options along with being prepared ahead of time makes becoming an advocate for oneself much easier than expected. Speaking up and making ourselves heard along with utilizing technology are just two steps we can take towards ensuring optimal healthy living. Knowing what our insurance covers is another crucial area where preparation will pay dividends in allowing us peace of mind while feeling secure financially down the road after receiving treatments.
- Published on
Based on the lessons of Coach Amy Miller
Weight loss can be challenging. Some days it feels like we are on top of the world, and nothing is going to stop us. Other days it can feel like nothing is ever going to change or get better, and quitting seems like a good idea.
It is important to stay motivated during the journey, so that when the down times happen, and they will, we can get right back to achieving our weight loss goals.
Weight loss can be challenging. Some days it feels like we are on top of the world, and nothing is going to stop us. Other days it can feel like nothing is ever going to change or get better, and quitting seems like a good idea.
It is important to stay motivated during the journey, so that when the down times happen, and they will, we can get right back to achieving our weight loss goals.
Here are 3 tips to help you stay motivated.
1- Relate your weight loss to something important to you.
One of the things that helped me stay motivated to lose weight and keep it off were my children. Motherhood has brought me the greatest joy in my life. My kiddos are my biggest accomplishment. They give my life meaning and purpose and have made me a better person. The healthier I am, the more energy I have to be active with my kids and to be better involved in their lives. It’s human nature to lean towards the negative when things get challenging, but what I am learning is a conscious shift in my mindset can truly make all the difference. What you tell yourself matters. I tell myself to keep going because I love my kids and they need me.
2 – Make Yourself a Priority
You are worth it! Embrace your obstacles! I’m so thankful for my challenges, without them, I would not have discovered my strengths. I have learned to love myself for my strengths and weaknesses. My obstacles have molded me into the person I am today. Yes, you can learn to be grateful and have gratitude for the things that make your life hard. Without challenges, we don’t develop grit. Start before you are ready! Take that leap of faith and go for it! If you don’t make time for your wellness, you will be forced to make time for your illness. Making yourself a priority means you have to accept yourself and know your limits too. Some people have no problem with cheat days and occasionally indulging in certain foods. Other people are a little more sensitive and need to be extra disciplined. That is OK! It is OK for your journey and your needs to be different from others and as long as you make yourself a priority in your own life, you will be able to take the time you need to love yourself well!
3-Encourage Others on their health journey
Sometimes the best way to stay encouraged about your own progress is to be encouraging of others on their journey. That is certain true for me. I am passionate about helping others live a life they didn’t consider possible. I help people learn how to CREATE health in their lives. I help my clients reach their health, wellness & weight-loss goals. Being a part of a community that inspires one another to do better personally and reach all of our greatness and potential is part of what keeps me going. I worked hard to eradicate obesity, poor habits & poor choices and helping others do the same is part of what keeps me personally motivated. I love watching people go farther with their goals than they ever thought possible and it helps me stay focused on my own goals. It has been a joy to see not only my family get healthy, but so many others! And it has been the main reason I’ve been able to stay healthy for so long! Staying connected to a community is key!
These are some of my top reasons for staying motivated.
Give some thought to what some of your reasons are.
If you would like to talk to me directly about motivation, or you have other health related questions the best ways to reach me are through Email: Amiller3308@gmail.com or you can call me directly on the phone at 409-739-6979.
Give some thought to what some of your reasons are.
If you would like to talk to me directly about motivation, or you have other health related questions the best ways to reach me are through Email: Amiller3308@gmail.com or you can call me directly on the phone at 409-739-6979.
A message from Coach Amy Miller
Why do I love coaching others? Because it feels so good to help others unwrap this gift!
I knew that my own life was being transformed rapidly and I couldn’t keep it to myself! My friends were asking what I was doing, so it just made sense for me to be the one to help them.
As I try to reflect back on my life before starting my health journey, I remember feeling like I was just existing. Basically going to work and come home and hop on the coach. I was tired due to trouble sleeping, I had chest pains and body aches and I had no energy.
When I first hear this program that I thought would help me, I remember thinking, I know what I can do on my own, I don’t need that.
I was skeptical, but finally decided to check it out for a month.
After the first month I was sleeping through the night, noticed I was in a better mood and had more energy.
For the first time, I was very motivated to keep going! There is something about getting results that gets you motivated. I have lost 72 lbs! My life is completely different now. I look forward to things, I plan things, I have energy and I am no longer trapped in a body that tells me “No” anymore.
I am no longer just existing.
I’m here to live life to the fullest!
So grateful I found this program!
For more information please fill out my Health Assessment Form
I knew that my own life was being transformed rapidly and I couldn’t keep it to myself! My friends were asking what I was doing, so it just made sense for me to be the one to help them.
As I try to reflect back on my life before starting my health journey, I remember feeling like I was just existing. Basically going to work and come home and hop on the coach. I was tired due to trouble sleeping, I had chest pains and body aches and I had no energy.
When I first hear this program that I thought would help me, I remember thinking, I know what I can do on my own, I don’t need that.
I was skeptical, but finally decided to check it out for a month.
After the first month I was sleeping through the night, noticed I was in a better mood and had more energy.
For the first time, I was very motivated to keep going! There is something about getting results that gets you motivated. I have lost 72 lbs! My life is completely different now. I look forward to things, I plan things, I have energy and I am no longer trapped in a body that tells me “No” anymore.
I am no longer just existing.
I’m here to live life to the fullest!
So grateful I found this program!
For more information please fill out my Health Assessment Form
