FIT WHILE ENJOYING MY TREATS
Maintaining a healthy weight has always been really important to me. Some that are close to me, may even say I’m a bit of a fanatic. I say no way…… it’s just the way I’ve found that works for me. One of the key strategies I use is weighing myself every day. It is a valuable tool I use to stay accountable and track fluctuations. It allows me to catch any upward trends early on and adjust accordingly. However, I understand that this approach might not work for everyone, particularly some women who find it triggering or anxiety-inducing.
Maintaining a healthy weight while still enjoying treats might seem like conflicting goals, especially as we age. However, at 64, I’ve found a way to strike that delicate balance, and believe me it has become more and more delicate. It’s not about strict rules or deprivation…. it’s about moderation and mindfulness.
FITNESS THROUGH BALANCED EATING
I’ve written about this before, but I will never be so obsessive with my diet anymore! I don’t want to be the girl that has to eat certain things, travel with my food, and avoid any social gatherings that include food. I was that once, and it gets old real fast. In my opinion it isn’t a healthy approach at all. I don’t deny myself the pleasure of the things I love to eat. And let me be specific….. I’m a sweet girl. I love dark chocolate, and that’s usually what I indulge in.
My approach has always been….. if I have a treat, I find a way to cutback in other areas throughout the day. I will eat less carbs, or possibly no treats for the next couple of days. Another adjustment might be to get in a really intense workout. This is why I watch that number on the scale, and go off of that to adjust. I have always known what works and what doesn’t for me, and that is vital. KNOWING YOUR BODY IS KEY!!
GETTING OLDER HAS HAD AN IMPACT
As I’ve gotten older, maintaining my weight has become so much more challenging. Metabolism slows down, and lifestyle factors play a significant role. But I refuse to cave into the idea of strict dietary restrictions and rules that dictate where I can eat or what I can enjoy. Health for me, is about MORE than just physical fitness. It’s about mental and emotional well-being too.
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I’ve discovered a sustainable approach that allows me to love the treats I’ve always loved, without the guilt that is sometimes associated with them. It’s all about finding what works FOR YOU individually and embracing a balanced lifestyle. For me, that means exercise every day, weight-training several times a week, and enjoying my food in moderation. At 64, I can confidently say that I’ve found MY BALANCE, when it comes to being fit while still enjoying my treats.
I would LOVE to hear your thoughts and what works for YOU. Everyone is so different, and I’m constantly learning from others.
CHOCOLATE PROTEIN COOKIES –
1/2 c protein powder
3 T oats
1T cocoa powder
1/4 c peanut butter
2 T maple syrup
2 T chocolate milk
1 T vanilla
1/4 t baking powder
1/4 t salt
3 squares chopped dark chocolate OR dark chocolate chips
Mix with a fork and use an ice cream scoop to form balls. Flatten slightly with a fork before baking.
Bake at 350 degree on a parchment lined cookie sheet for 10-12 min.