Quarantine Weight

Let's talk about it, because I know that I am not the only person who has gained a few pounds since March. If I am being honest I was already heading down a path with no end before March. Club Snacks and Quarantine sped up the process. I have worked out a total of 12 times since March (maybe). So, to all my peeps struggling, I am right here with you.

I really do not have a legitimate excuse; because my Zumba instructor (@TheAExperience on IG) offered free Zoom workouts up until June; and with all the free online workouts I could have easily just logged on and exercised. I could have also just done home workouts with no guidance; but thats boring. I honestly hate to exercise; and I love carbs (potato chips, bread, pasta, potatoes etc.) but I need a balance. If I am going to eat a slice of pizza for breakfast, I need to at least burn some calories after work…right? After working 9/10 hours a day, the last thing I want to do is a crunch or a burpee (wait, were those excuses?). I enjoy exercise classes more than going to the gym and walking on a treadmill, but I honestly haven't been motivated.

I go up and down in weight (I will not disclose my actual weight). I have clothes sizes ranging from a size 10-14 and NO I am not getting rid of them. I might get serious and squeeze my tiny ass into this dress... *smacks* (that's a Baby Boy reference for those who didn't catch that). In 2015, I lost about 50 pounds. I was turning 30 and going on a trip to the Caribbean, so I wanted to be snatched. I kept it off for about a year and a half. I did that by changing my eating habits. I cut back on carbs, sweets and drank only water. That’s legit all I did, I didn’t really workout much. I am confident that I can do it again. Keeping it off is the problem; because the seafood alfredo starts to call my name again.

Taking my health seriously and making it a priority is imperative. I am 35 years old (not a spring chicken as my mom would say), and I know as we get older it's extremely important to maintain a healthy diet and exercise regimen. Practicing self-care and being aware of the things you put into your body is important.

But listen...I LOVE FOOD, so cutting out everything isn't an option; but finding healthier options certainly is. I’ve started to incorporate some changes (baby steps). I enjoy a burger maybe 4 times a year, but I’m going to cut out red meat all together. For breakfast, I’ve switched my sugary Cinnamon Toast Crunch for an apple, or avocado toast. When cooking; I’ve started to incorporate unsalted butter and grape seed oil. I make a salad dressing with oil, maple syrup, dijon mustard, and ACV. Honey it is to die for. I’ve also cut out all juice and soft drinks. I only drink water and straight liquor 😉.

To be honest, I don’t want or need to be small. I just need to be healthy. My size is less of a concern to me. So, I am committed to making changes to ensure a fruitful life, with a side of cheesecake here and there.

What steps are you taking to lead a healthier life? How are you holding yourself accountable? What are some healthy recipes? How do you stay motivated to work out? I want to know it all, so leave a comment below and let's talk about it.

P.S.-Be gentle with yourself and find what works best for you. We're all just humans trying to figure this thing out.