The more I reflect back on this year, the more I realize how important it is to be taking care of myself. I always joke that "I am getting too old for this.." when referencing sleeping in a hospital recliner, or getting only a couple hours of sleep because there are just not enough hours in a day. I haven't eaten well, I haven't exercised much and I feel like my whole body has paid the price. This year has taken its toll and just recently I have started to take back control!
I have never been one to make New Year's Resolutions, probably because I never follow through and end up feeling like I failed. Instead, I am making daily resolutions to make each day better. I could be vague and tell you I will eat better, exercise more, get at least 8 hours of sleep, but instead I will be honest.
For the past month I have been replacing one meal a day with a blend. I throw in some protein, greens, coconut water, nut butter, and whatever veggies I have on hand. I used to only want fruit smoothies, but they are so full of sugar and make my insulin spike. As I get older, I find myself wanting less fruits and more colorful veggies. I pack in as many veggies as I can in this one blend because if I don't get it at this meal, I won't get enough throughout the day.
Another healthy meal choice I have made is eliminating 'sides' at dinner. We have a lean protein and veggies only at dinnertime, and we try to eat before 6pm. C and I have also cut out dairy, gluten and grains. My kids are still growing and developing so they get plenty of dairy and whole grains in their diets still. We are getting older and have spent so much of our 20s being overweight that it is time for a change. C has been eating very clean and exercising daily for over a year and feels fantastic!! I haven't been as disciplined, but have recently been making a daily effort.
Ever since Owen's heart transplant this summer, my focus has been on his rehabilitation. His donor heart needs at least 30 minutes of cardio exercise a day so we have been going for walks around the neighborhood or doing physical therapy. I am really good at making sure he takes care of his new heart, but then do nothing for my own. It's hard to admit it, but it's time to be honest. My daily resolution for my cardiac health is to take, at the minimum, a 30 minute walk a day. I love to go to the gym and I have a membership at a really fantastic gym but I never take the time to go. I need to take that time out for me. I earn it! The activities and choices I make on a daily basis are going to have a huge impact on how I age in the future.
I am 34 years old, and I want to Get Old well! Get Old is an initiative developed by Pfizer to challenge people of all ages to rethink what it means to Get Old and take a more active role in their health and quality of life at every age. My quality of life is okay, I have a lot of energy, but I am still pretty young. Honestly, if I keep going at the pace I am, I will not be well by 50. Making daily resolutions and rewarding myself with positive affirmation is going to help me Get Old well. I am hoping to be a young Grandma one day!!
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