Having the opportunity – let alone the ability – to create something tangible is a goal that many of us have. Some create art, save lives, write books, and erect structures. While these are all noble pursuits, to affect other peoples’ lives in a positive manner, to help them see not only the beauty and potential in themselves but also in others may perhaps be the best of all.
The time I have had over the past year to work with, mentor, and help beginner runners, would-be healthier folks, and otherwise individuals who just wanted to feel good about something (anything!) has been nothing short of priceless. Having lived the way that I have lived, having neglected the way I have neglected, having thought the way I have thought, it is no small miracle that I am still here, working on my own self-care plan while at the same time, trying to help so many others flush out their own self-doubt.
People continue to ask me why I continue to coach beginning runners… The answer could not be more simple. The pride I have in the people with whom I have trained pales in comparison to the joy I see when they take what they have learned and apply it not only to their own daily lives, but when it is re-gifted to others. It has been my experience that people truly want to absorb the information, motivation, and tools they want and need to develop and maintain their self-care plans. The real gift, to me, is seeing them repackage those tools and pass them along to others. The gift that keeps on giving…
You have something to offer someone else with that which you have learned. Rest assured. Passing that gift along to someone else who may be in the same position you were some time ago is perhaps the most gratifying thing you can do aside from your personal accomplichments. You have these gifts inside of you. Much like this self-care plan you are developing, which needed nothing more than a swift little unearthing, you have these things inside of you.
Take what you have learned and share it with others. They may nod in a somewhat empty, listening-to-the-in-laws kind of way, but I guarantee at least some of your message will stick. Let them know from where you came. Explain to them how you have toiled to get to where you are. Then, tell them where you want to be going forward. Your heart will swell with a unique sense of self-pride the likes of which may have never felt. But think of the person who receives your gift. If you have packaged it well, complete with an appealing bow to tie it all together, odds are good that your gift will be re-gifted from them to someone else. Now, look at what you have started…
So I ask you… How will you re-gifted that which you have been given? And to whom?
08 November 2008
27 October 2008
Race Report and Random Musings
Well... Where to begin. As always, so many things to write, so little time to reduce them to written form.
Suffice to say, my training for the Spinx Runfest Half Marathon did not exactly come off without its fair share of hitches. Quite the contrary. I could not seem to stay physically healthy, no matter what I did. Initially it was a seriously pulled/strained right hamstring (thanks to some bad hip flexors). Then it was really bad shin splints due to some poor shoe choices. As if that was not enough, six days prior to the race, I came down with a terrible cold.
Nevertheless, I stand before you (well, sit really) victorious. It was not pretty from a style perspective, but in my mind it was a thing of beauty. The day (25 October 2008) started out almost perfect. Cloud cover, a little warmer than expected (55-ish) and a light rain.
I got the starting line with about 12 minutes until the starting gun. I did some light running to loosen up my body, but the cold I had been battling left me really whipped, and I felt it. I really started second guessing the run. It was at that point that I made one promise to myself... just get to mile 3. I made the mistake, however, of wearing a long sleeve albeit thin pullover. By mile 2 I wanted to tear the thing off ala Hulk Hogan. By mile 3, I slowly started to find my rhythm, which was about normal for me. My biggest fear was going out too fast, but I ran consistent mile splits that were well within my range. I was thrilled. Mile 7 started the most challenging 3 miles of the course, filled with more hills than I would have liked. Still, I pressed on, tackled every water stop like a champ, swigging a little water, dumping a little on me to cool down. By mile 10, I was starting to feel the wear and tear. My longest training run had been 10.5 miles (twice, actually), so the mental aspect of carrying on past that point slowly (no, quickly) entered into my mind. Through some deep inflection and concentration, mostly thinking about my late uncle's battle with prostate cancer, it was clear I could not quit. He never did. Neither would I.
The finish of this particular race was cool as the finish line was at home plate of the local minor league baseball team's stadium. As I entered the stadium from right field, I knew I only had a little further to go. My legs (and mind) were jello. I rounded the outfield and made the stretch run down the third base line. I would love to sit here and tell you how I sprinted to glory at the end, but I cannot. I had nothing left. Nothing. I said a quick prayer, crossed the finish line and saw not only my fantastic wife, but also the vast majority of my No Boundaries group that I had been training, waiting on me to finish. I could not have asked for a better welcome.
To the extent possible, I hopped the wall, slogged up the steps and claimed my medal. Suffice to say, I am still carrying it with me as we speak until I can find a suitable resting place for it.
I learned a great deal about myself not only training for this race, but also during and after the race. I am still not sure it has settled in that I did what I did. Odd. I know I was there. My still sore legs tell me so. I guess it comes down to that little yet omnipresent demon inside of me that, even while I was out there running those last few miles, still tried to tell me that it was okay to give up, acceptable to quit. My history of doing just that is long. But this time I didn't. I wouldn't. Some have told me that their bodies quit on them long before their minds do when it comes to distance races. For me, it was the exact opposite. I cannot remember a time when I was more proud of myself for neglecting my own thoughts.
I am a very proud person today. I am proud of my wife for completing her first ever 5K (under my tutelage, of course). I am proud of my No Boundaries group (all 35 of them) for completing their 5Ks with gigantic smiles on their faces. Lastly I am proud of myself for doing the exact opposite of that which I have long been known to do.
Who knew?
Suffice to say, my training for the Spinx Runfest Half Marathon did not exactly come off without its fair share of hitches. Quite the contrary. I could not seem to stay physically healthy, no matter what I did. Initially it was a seriously pulled/strained right hamstring (thanks to some bad hip flexors). Then it was really bad shin splints due to some poor shoe choices. As if that was not enough, six days prior to the race, I came down with a terrible cold.
Nevertheless, I stand before you (well, sit really) victorious. It was not pretty from a style perspective, but in my mind it was a thing of beauty. The day (25 October 2008) started out almost perfect. Cloud cover, a little warmer than expected (55-ish) and a light rain.
I got the starting line with about 12 minutes until the starting gun. I did some light running to loosen up my body, but the cold I had been battling left me really whipped, and I felt it. I really started second guessing the run. It was at that point that I made one promise to myself... just get to mile 3. I made the mistake, however, of wearing a long sleeve albeit thin pullover. By mile 2 I wanted to tear the thing off ala Hulk Hogan. By mile 3, I slowly started to find my rhythm, which was about normal for me. My biggest fear was going out too fast, but I ran consistent mile splits that were well within my range. I was thrilled. Mile 7 started the most challenging 3 miles of the course, filled with more hills than I would have liked. Still, I pressed on, tackled every water stop like a champ, swigging a little water, dumping a little on me to cool down. By mile 10, I was starting to feel the wear and tear. My longest training run had been 10.5 miles (twice, actually), so the mental aspect of carrying on past that point slowly (no, quickly) entered into my mind. Through some deep inflection and concentration, mostly thinking about my late uncle's battle with prostate cancer, it was clear I could not quit. He never did. Neither would I.
The finish of this particular race was cool as the finish line was at home plate of the local minor league baseball team's stadium. As I entered the stadium from right field, I knew I only had a little further to go. My legs (and mind) were jello. I rounded the outfield and made the stretch run down the third base line. I would love to sit here and tell you how I sprinted to glory at the end, but I cannot. I had nothing left. Nothing. I said a quick prayer, crossed the finish line and saw not only my fantastic wife, but also the vast majority of my No Boundaries group that I had been training, waiting on me to finish. I could not have asked for a better welcome.
I completed my first ever half marathon in 2:17:14.
To the extent possible, I hopped the wall, slogged up the steps and claimed my medal. Suffice to say, I am still carrying it with me as we speak until I can find a suitable resting place for it.
I learned a great deal about myself not only training for this race, but also during and after the race. I am still not sure it has settled in that I did what I did. Odd. I know I was there. My still sore legs tell me so. I guess it comes down to that little yet omnipresent demon inside of me that, even while I was out there running those last few miles, still tried to tell me that it was okay to give up, acceptable to quit. My history of doing just that is long. But this time I didn't. I wouldn't. Some have told me that their bodies quit on them long before their minds do when it comes to distance races. For me, it was the exact opposite. I cannot remember a time when I was more proud of myself for neglecting my own thoughts.
I am a very proud person today. I am proud of my wife for completing her first ever 5K (under my tutelage, of course). I am proud of my No Boundaries group (all 35 of them) for completing their 5Ks with gigantic smiles on their faces. Lastly I am proud of myself for doing the exact opposite of that which I have long been known to do.
Who knew?
04 August 2008
Progress Report: August 4, 2008
Things are going well, overall. The more I focus, the less I think and, dare I say, the more I am true to myself, the more I realize just how important this journey is to me. To be angered to no end about not making progress in my journey while, all the long, knowing fully well that I was not doing all of the things necessary to make that dream of success a reality was, well, idiotic. I am focused now on recording all of the things that I consume. Alcohol is not the mainstay in my lifestyle that it may once have been - for whatever reason. This too is a learning experience. It is something that, if I really put my mind, heart, and soul into it, I have no doubt in my mind that success will follow.
Garbage in, garbage out, indeed. I now know why I have felt like such crap for so long. I may have been running, I may have "said" I was watching what I ate. But ultimately, I was too busy making excuses to justify my bad choices to really see what I was doing - i.e. giving myself an out to go back to the way I was over 100 lbs ago.
Strange...
But nevertheless, I digress. The running is going well. I am toying with the notion of running after work during the week. The morning thing is, well, shaky at best. We shall see. The long runs are progressing nicely. I logged a 1:15 run (about 7 miles) this past Saturday, and truly enjoyed it. It is crucial for me now, just as much as it will be on the day of the half marathon, to remember that this is fun. Just as it is easy to forget that I am a runner, it is equally as easy to forget that this was, is, and will continue to be fun for me. Losing that feeling would be to lose my soul, my driving force on this journey. Yes, I said it. Running is fun... and amazing, and beautiful, and challenging, and the best thing that has ever happened to me outside of my lively wife. Life, my friends, is not all bad.
Be well.
Garbage in, garbage out, indeed. I now know why I have felt like such crap for so long. I may have been running, I may have "said" I was watching what I ate. But ultimately, I was too busy making excuses to justify my bad choices to really see what I was doing - i.e. giving myself an out to go back to the way I was over 100 lbs ago.
Strange...
But nevertheless, I digress. The running is going well. I am toying with the notion of running after work during the week. The morning thing is, well, shaky at best. We shall see. The long runs are progressing nicely. I logged a 1:15 run (about 7 miles) this past Saturday, and truly enjoyed it. It is crucial for me now, just as much as it will be on the day of the half marathon, to remember that this is fun. Just as it is easy to forget that I am a runner, it is equally as easy to forget that this was, is, and will continue to be fun for me. Losing that feeling would be to lose my soul, my driving force on this journey. Yes, I said it. Running is fun... and amazing, and beautiful, and challenging, and the best thing that has ever happened to me outside of my lively wife. Life, my friends, is not all bad.
Be well.
26 July 2008
Progress Report: July 26, 2008
Obviously, in case you have not noticed already, the tone of my posts is generally much improved after a run...
Week 2 of the official half marathon training plan is in the books and, I have to say, I am feeling alright. Granted, I have not done anything to date that I have not done at some point before. Although the intervals and tempo run were a bit shocking to the system. I feel good, mentally and physically. And right now, both are crucial.
I have recently learned something with regard to my wanting to find ways to give up... Brick walls, whether self-imposed or otherwise, are meant to show us that which we really desire. That is, if we want something bad enough, we will work through anything to make it happen. By the time this whole mini-journey of mine is done, I will have run a half marathon. I am sure, at a few points throughout the run, I will want to quit, mentally or physically, or all around. But this is something I want to acheive so much for myself. To see if I can do it. To take that next step in my life.
Where that next step leads is anyone's guess.
Feel free to check out my online Fit Day journay to make sure I am eating right and getting in my exercise. The weight is slowly rectifying itself. While weight loss is not THE goal in training for this half marathon, running at a lighter weight seems VERY appealing to me.
Be well, friends.
Week 2 of the official half marathon training plan is in the books and, I have to say, I am feeling alright. Granted, I have not done anything to date that I have not done at some point before. Although the intervals and tempo run were a bit shocking to the system. I feel good, mentally and physically. And right now, both are crucial.
I have recently learned something with regard to my wanting to find ways to give up... Brick walls, whether self-imposed or otherwise, are meant to show us that which we really desire. That is, if we want something bad enough, we will work through anything to make it happen. By the time this whole mini-journey of mine is done, I will have run a half marathon. I am sure, at a few points throughout the run, I will want to quit, mentally or physically, or all around. But this is something I want to acheive so much for myself. To see if I can do it. To take that next step in my life.
Where that next step leads is anyone's guess.
Feel free to check out my online Fit Day journay to make sure I am eating right and getting in my exercise. The weight is slowly rectifying itself. While weight loss is not THE goal in training for this half marathon, running at a lighter weight seems VERY appealing to me.
Be well, friends.
22 July 2008
Progress Report: July 22, 2008
Well, things are definitely progressing. I am into the early stages of my Half Marathon training plan and seem to be moving along just fine. This morning, despite my best efforts to avoid it, I had my first taste of intervals and really enjoyed it. Thursday will be my first shot at a tempo run followed by Saturday's long slow jaunt.
Slowly but surely, I am getting to feel dialed in on all levels. I am [again, slowly] regaining my form with regard to my eating. This is nothing short of a miracle. Four week ago, I was down to 226 lbs. Two days ago, I was 238 lbs. Perhaps I was just retaining some water...
*sigh*
I know this is a process. However it never ceases to amaze me at just how easy it has been for me, historically, to add weight. It is painfully upsetting at times, when I really think about it. But ultimately I am the one in control of my self-care plan and my decision making processes. I have done the bad. Now it is time to continue my form in doing the good.
This Half Marathon in October is about a lot of things for me. People will often ask me why I run. Sometimes I will give the company line that I love the way it makes me feel and the freedom of mind and body it offers when I am on the roads. Really though, as I am still fighting my demons, I am still running away from things just as much as I am running towards a goal or event. Perhaps this will change as time goes on and I continue to learn about myself. Perhaps not.
I am just happy I can run at all.
Slowly but surely, I am getting to feel dialed in on all levels. I am [again, slowly] regaining my form with regard to my eating. This is nothing short of a miracle. Four week ago, I was down to 226 lbs. Two days ago, I was 238 lbs. Perhaps I was just retaining some water...
*sigh*
I know this is a process. However it never ceases to amaze me at just how easy it has been for me, historically, to add weight. It is painfully upsetting at times, when I really think about it. But ultimately I am the one in control of my self-care plan and my decision making processes. I have done the bad. Now it is time to continue my form in doing the good.
This Half Marathon in October is about a lot of things for me. People will often ask me why I run. Sometimes I will give the company line that I love the way it makes me feel and the freedom of mind and body it offers when I am on the roads. Really though, as I am still fighting my demons, I am still running away from things just as much as I am running towards a goal or event. Perhaps this will change as time goes on and I continue to learn about myself. Perhaps not.
I am just happy I can run at all.
09 July 2008
On Monday, it al begins...
Starting this coming Monday, July 14, 2008, I will start training for something I truly felt I would never attempt - a Half Marathon. Specifically, the Spinx RunFest Half Marathon, scheduled for October 25th. This is yet another reminder to me of how far I have come and where I have yet to venture. I will learn a great deal about myself over the next few months. I will post regular weekly updates on this Blog as to my progress. Stay tuned...
23 June 2008
Where Have I Been?
Oh the more things change, the more they stay the same. As I sit here typing, sore still from the Candlelight Run 5K this past Saturday, I am still grinning some. Something so simple as a run like that, a run for which I did not train and, admittedly was carrying around "some" extra weight. Needless to say, I am proud of myself not for running the race at all, but for accepting the challenge I put down.
I truly wanted to run as hard as I could, just to see what I had in the tank. Those of you who know me and swing by this Blog often know I have been battling a nasty hamstring injury for some time to the point that, combined with some serious lack of motivation, I think I ran all of TWICE in the two weeks leading up to this race. If nothing else, the hamstring was well rested. But I sit here proud and with some semblance of a focused re-dedication.
If anyone knows that this journey, this self-care plan is not an overnight thing, it should be me. I cannot lie... Sometimes I forget that. Nevertheless, back in the saddle I sit. Re-energized by the act of running - placing one foot in front of the other in a repeated fashion. So simple yet so vital in so many ways.
I ran for about 40 minutes tonight. It probably should have been more of a 30-35 minute run, but I would not be me if I did not push it a little bit. I will take this slow for the next few weeks, running 3 times per week. Praying things hold form, I may add one more short run but I will not run more than 4 days per week in getting ready for the half marathon in October. For me, that just may be overkill. We shall see.
But for now, I am going back to grinning.
Be well.
I truly wanted to run as hard as I could, just to see what I had in the tank. Those of you who know me and swing by this Blog often know I have been battling a nasty hamstring injury for some time to the point that, combined with some serious lack of motivation, I think I ran all of TWICE in the two weeks leading up to this race. If nothing else, the hamstring was well rested. But I sit here proud and with some semblance of a focused re-dedication.
If anyone knows that this journey, this self-care plan is not an overnight thing, it should be me. I cannot lie... Sometimes I forget that. Nevertheless, back in the saddle I sit. Re-energized by the act of running - placing one foot in front of the other in a repeated fashion. So simple yet so vital in so many ways.
I ran for about 40 minutes tonight. It probably should have been more of a 30-35 minute run, but I would not be me if I did not push it a little bit. I will take this slow for the next few weeks, running 3 times per week. Praying things hold form, I may add one more short run but I will not run more than 4 days per week in getting ready for the half marathon in October. For me, that just may be overkill. We shall see.
But for now, I am going back to grinning.
Be well.
01 June 2008
Progress Report: June 1, 2008
Well, I did it again... Seemingly on a whim, I registered for the Sunrise 8K run for June 14th in Simpsonville. It should be fun and I am really looking forward to it. I know I have not posted for a while - things have been crazy. That said, I am sitting firm at 236.2 right now - and I am somewhat okay with that, considering all that has happened over the past several months. I am back in weight loss meetings, which will certainly help as far as accountability is concerned. And for me, it is all about the accountability. Is it ever.
Be well.
Be well.
22 May 2008
Well, now I went and did it!
In what appears to have been a fit of idiocy, I registered yesterday for the 2008 Spinx Runfest Half Marathon. It will be held on Saturday, October 25th. Of course, I am exagerrating a bit on the "idiocy" part. Suffice to say, there is a lot of work to be done between now and then.
My food consumption of late has been of questionable quality and thanks to this nagging right hamstring injury, I have not really been able to run as consistently as I would like. Right now, it is more along the lines of 3-4 days per week.
Ultimately, the goal right now is to get to July pain-free and with some kind of consistent mileage base (15 miles, perhaps) before really ramping up the training. I am leaning towards time-based training as compared to mileage-based. I think it will be easier for me to track and, let's face it, with my Type A personality, simplifying things may not be such a bad idea.
So, that's it. I am all registered and ready to go. I feel somewhat confident in being able to finish, but it will be getting to the starting line healthy which will prove to be the first mahor obstacle.
I will continue to post updates on a weekly basis as my way of "checking in". Feel free to post you comments along the way.
Be well!
My food consumption of late has been of questionable quality and thanks to this nagging right hamstring injury, I have not really been able to run as consistently as I would like. Right now, it is more along the lines of 3-4 days per week.
Ultimately, the goal right now is to get to July pain-free and with some kind of consistent mileage base (15 miles, perhaps) before really ramping up the training. I am leaning towards time-based training as compared to mileage-based. I think it will be easier for me to track and, let's face it, with my Type A personality, simplifying things may not be such a bad idea.
So, that's it. I am all registered and ready to go. I feel somewhat confident in being able to finish, but it will be getting to the starting line healthy which will prove to be the first mahor obstacle.
I will continue to post updates on a weekly basis as my way of "checking in". Feel free to post you comments along the way.
Be well!
12 May 2008
Recap: 7th Annual Safe Harbor Run
In honor of Mother's Day, Safe Harbor held their 7th Annual Harbor Run (on Saturday, May 10, 2008). The 8k run started and finished at Fluor Field, the home of the Greenville Drive. The route included downtown Greenville and Cleveland Park. Vicky Echeverria was the overall female winner while Orinthal Striggles took the top honors for the men followed by Tim Briles (top picture). Safe Harbor states the run is "The Upstates Race Against Domestic Violence".
The race director, Sheila McCullough (bottom picture), owner of Fleet Feet Sports in Greenville, spent countless hours coordinating with her staff and a dedicated group of volunteers to make this event fantastic for everyone involved. The course route, slightly adjusted from years past, offered a great balance of rolling hills and scenic views of downtown Greenville on this beautiful Saturday morning. Many thanks go out to all who were involved including all of the sponsors, volunteers, participants, and spectators.
Note: Portions this post (italicized) and photographs were taken from The Greenville News and full credit is given to the paper and its staff.
Progress Report: May 12, 2008
Slow and steady wins the race, so they say... I have been repeating that sentiment over and over again lately. I am down a little more to 232.2, so the progress is still there. I could not be happier. I know that the key is making better decisions more often than not. Easier said than done. But it really is true. In times like this when it is all about trying to be as consistent as possible, the minor victories turn into major ones.
I could not be happier with the snail's pace I am on...
Be well.
I could not be happier with the snail's pace I am on...
Be well.
29 April 2008
Progress Report: April 29, 2008
I figured it had been long enough since I have last visited the scale. Down slightly to 235.2. I am thrilled with that. Sure, it is a slow process - as it should be. This is for all intent and purposes a marathon. Not a sprint.
I have not been able to run very much within the past couple of weeks thanks to this nagging hamstring injury and I do not think I will for at least another week or two. So it is resistance training and stationary biking for me.
No date-specific deadlines for me. No high-end rewards waiting for me at the end (at this point). Right now it is all about simply doing what I know needs to be done. Period.
If only it were always that simple.
Be well.
I have not been able to run very much within the past couple of weeks thanks to this nagging hamstring injury and I do not think I will for at least another week or two. So it is resistance training and stationary biking for me.
No date-specific deadlines for me. No high-end rewards waiting for me at the end (at this point). Right now it is all about simply doing what I know needs to be done. Period.
If only it were always that simple.
Be well.
28 April 2008
Heed the call...
When did you first contemplate taking that initial step? How much time has passed? How many times have we put it on the back burner?
For me, it was the better part of 32 years. Thirty-two years. That is an incredibly long time to ignore oneself, but that is exactly what I did. That first step on my journey - my self-care plan, if you will - was one of the more difficult things I have ever done in my life. I was a life long obese child, adolescent, and adult who ballooned to 340 pounds. I was, for all intent and purposes, a statue. I could not walk very much due to back pain and and neurological issues that went along with it. Essentially, merely existing was a problem for me. I rarely if ever left the friendly confines of my own abode. Why? It took far too much effort. I was frustrated, angry, and depressed.
Sure, there were some out there who "tried" to get me on the path. One doctor told me to "push away from the table a little sooner", another prescribed weight loss pills that were not even approved by the F.D.A., and yet another said the key was common sense. While the latter advice was not exactly inaccurate, it was clear that I had none of that.
I kept making assurances to myself that the next day would be different. I would really do it this time - starting Monday. Heaven knows, I could never start a self-reclamation project on the weekend! Those were the days for me to be "normal". Unfortunately for me, "normal" days included far too much indulgence and too little common sense when it came to my own self-care. I am no genius, that I will freely admit. But how ignorant I was to listen to all of my own excuses and justifications for simply not taking care of myself.
Then suddenly, one day, it clicked. I cannot tell you what day it was and I am not sure that it matters. It was not an epiphany really or even a traumatic event. It was just an ordinary day when I could swear I heard the starting gun go off in my head, heart, and soul. That was the beginning of the rest of my life.
Normally, a fresh start on a self-care plan for me included swift and assured failure. But this time was seemingly very different. I resigned myself to accepting the fact that every day would be a learning experience. If I would fall, I would pick myself back up, dust myself off, and learn from it. If I make a bad food choice, or miss a chance to exercise, or do not get enough rest, I would not beat myself up over it. Rather I would do the best I could going forward.
Remember folks, we were given eyes in the front of our heads and not in the back, so we can see where we are going. Not where we have been.
Far too many people think that health and wellness is difficult. Nothing could be further from the truth. It all starts with making one small change whether it is watching what you eat a little more closely, eating cleaner (i.e. fruits and vegetables, foods that are not processed or processed as little as possible), getting a little more active, or something. ANYTHING! It is not about being perfect, all of the time. No one can do that. Rather it is about being better more often than not. To win the war of self-preservation, with your trusty self-care plan by your side, you merely need to win more battles than you lose. Obviously, the more battles you win, the better you are in the long run. Once you take that first step, you are already a winner for having started caring for yourself again and, for some of us, for the first time.
Listen for the starting gun. Do not let 30-plus years get by you before you hear that gun go off in your head, heart, and soul. Listen for that call. Take it, and go with it. Your body wants to be active and healthy, by its very nature. We are the only ones who are keeping that from happening!
Take that first step. While it may not seem like much on the surface, it is the first step of this never-ending journey of ours that will be the most rewarding and memorable for the rest of your life.
Be well.
For me, it was the better part of 32 years. Thirty-two years. That is an incredibly long time to ignore oneself, but that is exactly what I did. That first step on my journey - my self-care plan, if you will - was one of the more difficult things I have ever done in my life. I was a life long obese child, adolescent, and adult who ballooned to 340 pounds. I was, for all intent and purposes, a statue. I could not walk very much due to back pain and and neurological issues that went along with it. Essentially, merely existing was a problem for me. I rarely if ever left the friendly confines of my own abode. Why? It took far too much effort. I was frustrated, angry, and depressed.
Sure, there were some out there who "tried" to get me on the path. One doctor told me to "push away from the table a little sooner", another prescribed weight loss pills that were not even approved by the F.D.A., and yet another said the key was common sense. While the latter advice was not exactly inaccurate, it was clear that I had none of that.
I kept making assurances to myself that the next day would be different. I would really do it this time - starting Monday. Heaven knows, I could never start a self-reclamation project on the weekend! Those were the days for me to be "normal". Unfortunately for me, "normal" days included far too much indulgence and too little common sense when it came to my own self-care. I am no genius, that I will freely admit. But how ignorant I was to listen to all of my own excuses and justifications for simply not taking care of myself.
Then suddenly, one day, it clicked. I cannot tell you what day it was and I am not sure that it matters. It was not an epiphany really or even a traumatic event. It was just an ordinary day when I could swear I heard the starting gun go off in my head, heart, and soul. That was the beginning of the rest of my life.
Normally, a fresh start on a self-care plan for me included swift and assured failure. But this time was seemingly very different. I resigned myself to accepting the fact that every day would be a learning experience. If I would fall, I would pick myself back up, dust myself off, and learn from it. If I make a bad food choice, or miss a chance to exercise, or do not get enough rest, I would not beat myself up over it. Rather I would do the best I could going forward.
Remember folks, we were given eyes in the front of our heads and not in the back, so we can see where we are going. Not where we have been.
Far too many people think that health and wellness is difficult. Nothing could be further from the truth. It all starts with making one small change whether it is watching what you eat a little more closely, eating cleaner (i.e. fruits and vegetables, foods that are not processed or processed as little as possible), getting a little more active, or something. ANYTHING! It is not about being perfect, all of the time. No one can do that. Rather it is about being better more often than not. To win the war of self-preservation, with your trusty self-care plan by your side, you merely need to win more battles than you lose. Obviously, the more battles you win, the better you are in the long run. Once you take that first step, you are already a winner for having started caring for yourself again and, for some of us, for the first time.
Listen for the starting gun. Do not let 30-plus years get by you before you hear that gun go off in your head, heart, and soul. Listen for that call. Take it, and go with it. Your body wants to be active and healthy, by its very nature. We are the only ones who are keeping that from happening!
Take that first step. While it may not seem like much on the surface, it is the first step of this never-ending journey of ours that will be the most rewarding and memorable for the rest of your life.
Be well.
20 April 2008
Progress Report: April 20, 2008
Well, things are moving along. I am down a little more than four (4) pounds in the past month to about 236. I could not be happier. So, to date, I have lost 104 pounds and have kept it off for over two (2) years. It still amazes me sometimes, yet other times I have to remind myself of how far I have come. It is one of those funny things.
The point of this exercise is that anyone can do it. After years of self-neglect and abuse of my body, I found my self-care plan and put it to use. It is by no means perfect. Far from it. But I am working forward. Like my late uncle always told me: "If you are not progressing, you are regressing." So true.
The point of this exercise is that anyone can do it. After years of self-neglect and abuse of my body, I found my self-care plan and put it to use. It is by no means perfect. Far from it. But I am working forward. Like my late uncle always told me: "If you are not progressing, you are regressing." So true.
14 April 2008
Health and wellness can save you money!!!
The economy these days is obviously not great. This is not a newsflash to anyone, I am sure. However it is slowly but surely getting worse in a new yet rather unexpected way. The solution? It is simple... adopt a self-care plan and re-invest in your own well being!
The cost of gas is rising. Real estate prices are falling. The job market is sketchy. The dollar is tumbling in foreign markets. All of these are, obviously, concerns for us as a society. Why would anyone want to add further expense to an already stretched budget? Well, in the future, your employer may adopt a plan where you pay more of the premiums and, possibly, more in the way of co-pays and medication costs. In some cases, a lot more.
Companies are getting to the point now where they are tired of bearing the brunt of the downfall from the sedentary lifestyles of their employees. While that may be a bit brash, it is reality. Instead of eating this cost, companies are looking to pass the buck on to you, the employee, for your health insurance premiums, doctor visits, and prescriptions.
This, my friends, is not the end. A good self-care plan can help stave off this trend, at least in your own world. Being more active, eating better, and getting enough rest are key components to a solid self-care plan. I have mentioned this term before and will undoubtedly do so again. However keeping yourself healthy can help you save on medical costs. By adopting a self-care plan, you can begin to put your body back to center, and in a much more healthier place, overall. Ultimately, this equates to fewer visits to the doctor and less of a need for certain medications.
Even more, there are some companies that will essentially compensate you (really, they allow you to save money) on your health insurance by simply adopting a self-care plan. One company in particular offers a 75% reduction in health care premiums for taking part in their wellness program, which includes attending a few meetings and seminars about health and wellness, and submitting to the occasional health screening to monitor your progress. Would anyone reading this right now turn down that kind of opportunity? I think not.
Being active is inexpensive. Invest in a good pair of walking or running shoes (including getting properly fitted for them, people), and you can exercise to your heart's content. As I once heard, "your shoes never say no - only you do". So, don't say no. Take advantage of that gym that never closes and allows you to go to so many wonder places both geographically and spiritually.
Eating cleaner is not as expensive as many would like you to believe. Sure, eating organic can cost a touch more. Managing portions, however? Therein lies the key. Portion control has been the bain of my existence for as long as I can remember. There is no way that is 4 ounces of chicken! But it is. Eating more fresh, less processed foods is a fantastic way to help clear your mind and body of many of the things that have been slowing it down over time. Reintroduce yourself to some of the fantastic local produce in your area. Eat fresh, eat seasonal, eat local. Try it and in a few weeks, you will be amazed.
Sure, being healthier overall is not the solution to all of the world's problems. However it does allow you to take control of you life - your body and mind - and at least have some say as to how things play out. Adopting a self-care plan just makes good sense. You feel and look better inside and out and, now, you may even save yourself a substantial amount of money.
A better fiscal plan you cannot find.
The cost of gas is rising. Real estate prices are falling. The job market is sketchy. The dollar is tumbling in foreign markets. All of these are, obviously, concerns for us as a society. Why would anyone want to add further expense to an already stretched budget? Well, in the future, your employer may adopt a plan where you pay more of the premiums and, possibly, more in the way of co-pays and medication costs. In some cases, a lot more.
Companies are getting to the point now where they are tired of bearing the brunt of the downfall from the sedentary lifestyles of their employees. While that may be a bit brash, it is reality. Instead of eating this cost, companies are looking to pass the buck on to you, the employee, for your health insurance premiums, doctor visits, and prescriptions.
This, my friends, is not the end. A good self-care plan can help stave off this trend, at least in your own world. Being more active, eating better, and getting enough rest are key components to a solid self-care plan. I have mentioned this term before and will undoubtedly do so again. However keeping yourself healthy can help you save on medical costs. By adopting a self-care plan, you can begin to put your body back to center, and in a much more healthier place, overall. Ultimately, this equates to fewer visits to the doctor and less of a need for certain medications.
Even more, there are some companies that will essentially compensate you (really, they allow you to save money) on your health insurance by simply adopting a self-care plan. One company in particular offers a 75% reduction in health care premiums for taking part in their wellness program, which includes attending a few meetings and seminars about health and wellness, and submitting to the occasional health screening to monitor your progress. Would anyone reading this right now turn down that kind of opportunity? I think not.
Being active is inexpensive. Invest in a good pair of walking or running shoes (including getting properly fitted for them, people), and you can exercise to your heart's content. As I once heard, "your shoes never say no - only you do". So, don't say no. Take advantage of that gym that never closes and allows you to go to so many wonder places both geographically and spiritually.
Eating cleaner is not as expensive as many would like you to believe. Sure, eating organic can cost a touch more. Managing portions, however? Therein lies the key. Portion control has been the bain of my existence for as long as I can remember. There is no way that is 4 ounces of chicken! But it is. Eating more fresh, less processed foods is a fantastic way to help clear your mind and body of many of the things that have been slowing it down over time. Reintroduce yourself to some of the fantastic local produce in your area. Eat fresh, eat seasonal, eat local. Try it and in a few weeks, you will be amazed.
Sure, being healthier overall is not the solution to all of the world's problems. However it does allow you to take control of you life - your body and mind - and at least have some say as to how things play out. Adopting a self-care plan just makes good sense. You feel and look better inside and out and, now, you may even save yourself a substantial amount of money.
A better fiscal plan you cannot find.
13 April 2008
ASICS, Fleet Feet Sports, and Furman University team up to help local children
Since our local media has seen fit to provide zero coverage for this event, I am going to take it upon myself to do so...
On Saturday, April 12, 2008, thanks to the donations of so many individuals, 125 local Greenville County children received brand new ASICS running shoes and other goodies. With their new blue shoes, the children took part in the Blue Shoe Mile, in conjunction with the track events that took place at Furman University yesterday.
The great thing about this event is that these local children are on the school lunch program as they cannot afford to buy their own lunches. It has been amazing for me personally, as well as for everyone involved in this whole event, to help our local children and to give them an opportunity to fall in love with running. I simply had to share this fantastic story of local people helping others within the community. That, folks, is that it is all about. Look for big things next year with this event!
On Saturday, April 12, 2008, thanks to the donations of so many individuals, 125 local Greenville County children received brand new ASICS running shoes and other goodies. With their new blue shoes, the children took part in the Blue Shoe Mile, in conjunction with the track events that took place at Furman University yesterday.
The great thing about this event is that these local children are on the school lunch program as they cannot afford to buy their own lunches. It has been amazing for me personally, as well as for everyone involved in this whole event, to help our local children and to give them an opportunity to fall in love with running. I simply had to share this fantastic story of local people helping others within the community. That, folks, is that it is all about. Look for big things next year with this event!
Special thanks to: Communities and Schools, Monaview Elementary, Principal, Janice Sargant with Monaview Elementary, Fleet Feet Greenville, Chris and Andrea Borch, Furman University, and ASICS.
Developing a self-care plan is as easy as 1-2-3...
I often hear from people I meet just how difficult it is to become more active, eat a little better, and in general, take better care of one's self. It really isn't. It is rather simple and, bear with me, much more inexpensive than many would like for you to believe.
A good friend of mine, a mentor in my wellness journey, used to use the term "self-care plan" often. I love the term and use it often, perhaps to a fault. A self-care plan can be many things to many people. To me, it is a balance of good nutrition, physical activity, rest, motivation, and forward planning.
I know, I know... Again, bear with me...
Taking better care of oneself is as big a win-win situation as there is. Eating well generally means eating cleaner with more fruits and vegetables. That is not to imply the notion of deprivation of all of those naughty things we may have eaten in the past. Hardly. Because the moment you get it into your mind that there are foods you cannot eat, this self-care plan - an attempt to do something positive for yourself, turns out to be a diet... and what are the first three letters in the word "diet"? D-I-E. That is what happens to most diets that include deprivation of anything... they usually die a painful death, and the person trying to make it work is left wondering what went wrong and may consider never trying again. On the flip side, a reasonable diet - "diet" meaning stable of foods we eat - including more fruits and vegetables, good amounts of fiber and enough protein and fats, all in proper portions, will allow for opportunities to consume something that may ordinarily be outside the realm of the "better" choices.
There are many free online tools that can be used to track and calculate your calories, vitamins, and nutrients consumed, in an effort to make life easier for you. I have used both Spark People and Fit Day. and both are very user friendly and intuitive.
Physical activity and rest really go hand-in-hand. Being physically active does not mean you have to go out and run a marathon, although if that is your bag, excellent. If you are just getting started with your self-care plan, any kind of physical activity is fantastic. Walking is one of the best activities out there. It is good for your joints, your bones, and most importantly your heart and mind.
Running, contrary to popular belief, is not bad for you. On the contrary, it is infectious. Some of my best thinking happens when I am out on the roads, running. It is my meditation time, my time for reflection.
Some will have you believe that walking and/or running are expensive ways to get into and stay in shape. I am here to dispel that. I challenge anyone to find me an annual gym membership that will cost as little as that of one or two pairs of properly fitted shoes. Notice, I said "properly fitted". That does not mean you can run out to your local box store and pick up any old shoes, throw them on your feet, and expect to keep your body moving and pain free. I urge you to find a store that looks at your feet, with your shoes and socks off, and look at your feet and find a shoe that is right for you. This is not at an extra cost. Stores like Fleet Feet for example simply do it as a part of their fitting process. They are not satisfied until you have the best shoe for you on your feet. And you shouldn't either. It is the best investment you can make. A good pair of walking or running shoes can last you anywhere from six to 12 months, depending on your level of activity. Not a bad investment of time and money.
Rest is equally important. It is your body's way of rebuilding itself from your activities. It is a important as any physical activity you will perform. Not much more can be said about that, but I cannot stress its importance enough.
Motivation and forward planning also go hand-in-hand. This journey of ours, this self-care plan, is a never ending process. There is no finish line, folks. With that in mind, goals are crucial to keep up your motivation. I am not saying that setting a firm weight-by-date goal is the only way to go. Find something that is important to you. Aiming for a charity walk in which you want to participate? Planning for a run, perhaps your first? Print out walk or race fliers and hang them anywhere your eyes go... it will be a constant reminder and instant motivation for you to keep your eye on the prize.
This self-care plan thing is not rocket science, by any means. It many things to many people. But there are some things it is not. It, much like us as human beings, is not nor does it have to be perfect. For many years, I beat myself up for making bad food choices or not being more active, and the like. It took me several years to figure out that if I could just make better choices seven, eight, or even nine times out of 10, I would be ahead of the game in the long run... and that is precisely what this self-care plan idea is all about. The big picture. The rest of your life. If you do not have a self-care plan in place yet, get one. They are fun, free, and may just be the key to unlocking a brand new life of wellness for you, your friends, and family.
Be well.
A good friend of mine, a mentor in my wellness journey, used to use the term "self-care plan" often. I love the term and use it often, perhaps to a fault. A self-care plan can be many things to many people. To me, it is a balance of good nutrition, physical activity, rest, motivation, and forward planning.
I know, I know... Again, bear with me...
Taking better care of oneself is as big a win-win situation as there is. Eating well generally means eating cleaner with more fruits and vegetables. That is not to imply the notion of deprivation of all of those naughty things we may have eaten in the past. Hardly. Because the moment you get it into your mind that there are foods you cannot eat, this self-care plan - an attempt to do something positive for yourself, turns out to be a diet... and what are the first three letters in the word "diet"? D-I-E. That is what happens to most diets that include deprivation of anything... they usually die a painful death, and the person trying to make it work is left wondering what went wrong and may consider never trying again. On the flip side, a reasonable diet - "diet" meaning stable of foods we eat - including more fruits and vegetables, good amounts of fiber and enough protein and fats, all in proper portions, will allow for opportunities to consume something that may ordinarily be outside the realm of the "better" choices.
There are many free online tools that can be used to track and calculate your calories, vitamins, and nutrients consumed, in an effort to make life easier for you. I have used both Spark People and Fit Day. and both are very user friendly and intuitive.
Physical activity and rest really go hand-in-hand. Being physically active does not mean you have to go out and run a marathon, although if that is your bag, excellent. If you are just getting started with your self-care plan, any kind of physical activity is fantastic. Walking is one of the best activities out there. It is good for your joints, your bones, and most importantly your heart and mind.
Running, contrary to popular belief, is not bad for you. On the contrary, it is infectious. Some of my best thinking happens when I am out on the roads, running. It is my meditation time, my time for reflection.
Some will have you believe that walking and/or running are expensive ways to get into and stay in shape. I am here to dispel that. I challenge anyone to find me an annual gym membership that will cost as little as that of one or two pairs of properly fitted shoes. Notice, I said "properly fitted". That does not mean you can run out to your local box store and pick up any old shoes, throw them on your feet, and expect to keep your body moving and pain free. I urge you to find a store that looks at your feet, with your shoes and socks off, and look at your feet and find a shoe that is right for you. This is not at an extra cost. Stores like Fleet Feet for example simply do it as a part of their fitting process. They are not satisfied until you have the best shoe for you on your feet. And you shouldn't either. It is the best investment you can make. A good pair of walking or running shoes can last you anywhere from six to 12 months, depending on your level of activity. Not a bad investment of time and money.
Rest is equally important. It is your body's way of rebuilding itself from your activities. It is a important as any physical activity you will perform. Not much more can be said about that, but I cannot stress its importance enough.
Motivation and forward planning also go hand-in-hand. This journey of ours, this self-care plan, is a never ending process. There is no finish line, folks. With that in mind, goals are crucial to keep up your motivation. I am not saying that setting a firm weight-by-date goal is the only way to go. Find something that is important to you. Aiming for a charity walk in which you want to participate? Planning for a run, perhaps your first? Print out walk or race fliers and hang them anywhere your eyes go... it will be a constant reminder and instant motivation for you to keep your eye on the prize.
This self-care plan thing is not rocket science, by any means. It many things to many people. But there are some things it is not. It, much like us as human beings, is not nor does it have to be perfect. For many years, I beat myself up for making bad food choices or not being more active, and the like. It took me several years to figure out that if I could just make better choices seven, eight, or even nine times out of 10, I would be ahead of the game in the long run... and that is precisely what this self-care plan idea is all about. The big picture. The rest of your life. If you do not have a self-care plan in place yet, get one. They are fun, free, and may just be the key to unlocking a brand new life of wellness for you, your friends, and family.
Be well.
11 April 2008
Fleet Feet Greenville visits Canal Insurance, presents Walk to Your Health!!!
I had a wonderful time yesterday with Sheila McCullough from Fleet Feet Sports in Greenville as we addressed a crowd of over 40 employees from Canal Insurance Company. We talked about everything from getting fitted for the right shoes for the needs of your feet and fitness goals to motivational techniques to help get everyone a little bit more active and feeling better, inside and out. Let's face it - being active is really not that hard. Our bodies, by their very nature, want to be active. However our society has done an exceptional job of deprogramming us. Now is the time to change that. All it takes is one small change, and I promise, it is infectious!
It fills my heart with such joy to be able to speak with others about being more active, eating better and, in general, just taking better care of themselves inside and out. I cannot wait for the next opportunity to do so.
Check back here for photos and perhaps even video clips from events and speaking engagements!
It fills my heart with such joy to be able to speak with others about being more active, eating better and, in general, just taking better care of themselves inside and out. I cannot wait for the next opportunity to do so.
Check back here for photos and perhaps even video clips from events and speaking engagements!
09 April 2008
Aufweidersehen bis mein Bruder
I have not had many opportunities to post on here of late. This one is very necessary. On Saturday morning, March 22, 2008, my uncle, Thomas Peters, lost his battle with metastatic prostate cancer. He was 64 years of age.
Thos who know me are aware of just how difficult the past several months have been for my family and me. When he was diagnosed back in 2006, the prognosis was not so good, as even then it was metasticized. However, in true Uncle Tom fashion, he fought and refused to let it take him quite so fast. He traveled three (3) more times to Germany - which made for 109 times all tolled - including one in September of 2006 with his pain in the rump nephew - me.
To try to sit here and express in words the impact of his life on mine would be doing him so little justice. He was a sage, a wise man who was never afraid to let me know exactly what he thought, whether I wanted to hear it or not. Odds are, I needed to hear whatever he had to say. I respected him immensely because even up until his last days, he did everything exactly the way he wanted. Uncle Tom was stubborn that way.
I loved him and always will. I told him that all the time, including the day before we lost him. His last weeks and days were not pretty, but he fought valiantly. He was the father figure I always wished I had. Sadly, I wish I would have realized that sooner.
I am proud to say I knew Thomas Peters as a man, a friend, an uncle, and a brother. Some many try, but no one will be able to take away the memories I have with him pertaining to nothing in particular - losing money playing pool, losing money playing cards, hearing another one of his jokes, AGAIN - whatever the case may be.
I can only hope he is keeping an eye on me. Heaven knows I need it.
Watch the ice, Bro.
Thos who know me are aware of just how difficult the past several months have been for my family and me. When he was diagnosed back in 2006, the prognosis was not so good, as even then it was metasticized. However, in true Uncle Tom fashion, he fought and refused to let it take him quite so fast. He traveled three (3) more times to Germany - which made for 109 times all tolled - including one in September of 2006 with his pain in the rump nephew - me.
To try to sit here and express in words the impact of his life on mine would be doing him so little justice. He was a sage, a wise man who was never afraid to let me know exactly what he thought, whether I wanted to hear it or not. Odds are, I needed to hear whatever he had to say. I respected him immensely because even up until his last days, he did everything exactly the way he wanted. Uncle Tom was stubborn that way.
I loved him and always will. I told him that all the time, including the day before we lost him. His last weeks and days were not pretty, but he fought valiantly. He was the father figure I always wished I had. Sadly, I wish I would have realized that sooner.
I am proud to say I knew Thomas Peters as a man, a friend, an uncle, and a brother. Some many try, but no one will be able to take away the memories I have with him pertaining to nothing in particular - losing money playing pool, losing money playing cards, hearing another one of his jokes, AGAIN - whatever the case may be.
I can only hope he is keeping an eye on me. Heaven knows I need it.
Watch the ice, Bro.
Update from the 2008 Greenville National MS Society Walk
What an amazing day it was this past Sunday. The weather was perfect, the people were enthused, and the cause was there. The picture to the left kind of says it all. I am in the back row, all the way to the left with my wife just in front of me and to my right.
Multiple Sclerosis is a disease that has struck as close to home for me as possible. For those who do not know, my mother was diagnosed with this disease about nine (9) years ago.
Since my wife and I moved to South Carolina, we have been blessed to meet two wonderful friends from New York, one of whom was also diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis. Events like the walk this past week really give me a pause for thought as to what things are important in life. Family, friends, and all that goes with them.
Going forward, this Blog will be used as a proactive tool to help promote health and fitness as well as a sounding board for the latest developments with the MS team my friends and I are working on assembling.
Feel free to post your comments. Be well.
Multiple Sclerosis is a disease that has struck as close to home for me as possible. For those who do not know, my mother was diagnosed with this disease about nine (9) years ago.
Since my wife and I moved to South Carolina, we have been blessed to meet two wonderful friends from New York, one of whom was also diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis. Events like the walk this past week really give me a pause for thought as to what things are important in life. Family, friends, and all that goes with them.
Going forward, this Blog will be used as a proactive tool to help promote health and fitness as well as a sounding board for the latest developments with the MS team my friends and I are working on assembling.
Feel free to post your comments. Be well.
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About Me
- Dan
- NJ, United States
- A former 355-pound man, Dan has continued his journey, complete with ups and downs, and has begun to devote his life to helping others through their journeys.
