Spring Cleaning On The WLS Journey
May 3, 2013Spring has sprung!
It is now the season that many of us do our spring cleaning. When we think of spring cleaning, it usually refers to the annual act of cleaning a house heavy duty from top to bottom. One of the biggest aspects of the yearly ritual is getting rid of items and clutter that you don't need. Spring cleaning can also be applied when we do any type of big job such as getting business documentations in order or personal finances organized. (Things that we have let slack.) Whether in our homes or financial documents, spring cleaning is a time of rejuvenation and getting things tightened up.
So, what does spring cleaning have to do with weight loss surgery? Everything! As we review other aspects of our lives for cleaning and rejuvenating, we can do the same for our bodies and lifestyles. You can apply the philosophy of spring cleaning to your nutritional intake, exercise routine, vitamin regime or anything that needs to be rejuvenated. Take stock of what you’ve been doing and give yourself a new beginning as you “clean” up your act!
Nutrition
Take a look at what you’re eating. As a layover from the holidays, maybe you aren’t eating as “clean” as you were previously. Now is the time to spring clean your nutritional healthy habits. There is such an abundance of beautiful fresh fruits and vegetables that are in season. What an easy way to get back on track by incorporating the seasonal healthy choices available at your local farmers markets.
Review how your plate looks. Are you getting in adequate protein, fruits, vegetables and whole grains? Are you turning to processed “fake foods” rather than real food? In your nutritional spring cleaning endeavor, focus on the perimeter of the grocery store. At the perimeter of the store is where you find the produce, meats, whole grains in the bakery, and more of the healthy, whole food options.
Check your vitamins. Do you need to replenish your supply? “Clean” up by starting anew and recommit to your regular vitamin supplementation program. If any are beyond their expiration date, discard and get a fresh supply. Have you run out of a particular vitamin or want to spring clean by trying something new? Now is the time.
Exercise
During the winter months, have you slacked off your exercise routine and need to “clean” up your activity? Do it now! It is almost time to wear your swimsuit, shorts and sleeveless apparel so return to working out or adopt a new exercise routine. Increase your exercise workout by going to the gym, participating in a sports or team activities, swimming, or walking and running so you can fully enjoy the fun in the sun of the great outdoors.
Hydrate
Warm weather = WATER! “Clean” your body inside by making sure your daily intake of water is a minimum of 64 ounces. Remember that if you are thirsty, then you need to drink more. Thirst is the first sign of dehydration so drink before your thirst kicks in. If you think you are hungry, try drinking water instead. Many times hunger can be mistaken for thirst. Of course, warm weather and outdoor activity can increase our need for water. Drink up!
Relationships
Sometimes we even need to review people in our lives for spring cleaning. Is there someone in your life that simply drains your energy? Maybe it is someone that you need to have a talk with regarding a specific concern that is bothering you? Clean up your relationships as well so you can enjoy the full benefit of those people in your life.
Whether you need to drop the weight of some unneeded clutter or those extra excess pounds. Give yourself a fresh, new beginning or a shot of rejuvenation for your weight loss surgery habits and lifestyle. It's time for spring cleaning. Go for it!
 | ABOUT THE AUTHOR Cathy Wilson, PCC, BCC, had RNY surgery in 2001 and lost 147 pounds. Cathy is a regular contributor to the OH Blog and authored the "Mind Matters" column in ObesityHelp Magazine. Cathy is a licensed pilot and loves flying. She is a member of the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (ASMBS) and the Obesity Action Coalition (OAC).Read more articles by Cathy! |
