“A year from now you will wish you had started today.”-Anonymous
It has officially been 365 days! Today, one year ago I woke up, and I had enough! Enough excuses, enough regret, enough neglect, enough believing the lies of the enemy. I woke up, and I said I must change now! The week before I had dabbled in a fitness routine. It felt great but today last year I wanted to do more than just dabble. I wanted to commit. I wanted to commit to a healthy lifestyle. Now, if you have been following me along the last year, you know that this is not my first weight loss journey. So, what was so different this time around? I did it before so what’s the big deal. All the times before I was seeking weight loss for vanity reasons. I wanted to be a Size X, I wanted to look like so and so, I want people to see me as blah, blah, blah and honestly WHO CARES!
Who I was
I look back on the empty person I was, and I am so grateful for God’s redemption. This journey has been so much more; this has been the results of an ongoing relationship with God. That is the celebration today. I didn’t do this by myself I did this with God. There were so many days I prayed to him for His help through this journey, His self-control, His provision and His unconditional love. This was a daily intentional relationship with God to Honor My Temple. It has grown my faith in Him so much. It has defeated my anxiety, bouts of depression, obsessive-compulsive behaviors. I have never felt so fulfilled in my life.
Finding Purpose
The other thing that has changed this past year is my purpose. For the last thirteen years, I have been searching, lost in this world, grasping at anything but the only thing that could fulfill me. I have tried to overcome with bad habits, smoking, drinking, partying, over training, under eating, overeating, negative self-talk, negative to other people, selfish ambition. Not one of those fruits has been of the Spirit. It wasn’t until Jesus found me in a broken place, a rock bottom, despair and anguish were my friend that He picked me up, brushed me off and kissed me and then began this year of healing. This journey has been my inside matching my outside as I yearn to know, grow and glorify Him.
The Last Year’s Reflection
In this last year, I have learned how to do fitness better. This journey has done so much for me and my life more than weight loss. It has improved my dependence on God, strengthened my marriage, help me find my calling and ignited a passion for teaching others how to honor their temple. It has been an incredible journey. I have had an amazing network of women and men who have cheered me on, cheered me up, prayed for me, and inspired me. I have met other peoples who like me want to teach others how to Honor their temple and glorify God!
I have been called to go to school AGAIN and get my degree in Fitness Exercise Science and an NASM certification so that I can be in the trenches walking with others and teaching them how to honor their temple with God. I created this blog “FaithFueled™” before I even knew what it means the name came to me in a dream. Here I am a year later with a precise definition.
This is the beginning of a new journey now. Can you imagine where I will be in a year, and my husband has joined me in my next Fitness Goal it’s going to be a BIG ONE? I plan on showing others the FaithFueled™ Lifestyle, which is God First! Witness through fitness; glorifying God through living a healthy lifestyle fueled by faith.
So, I say “Start now, a year ago you would be glad you did!” What got you started on your journey? Whether it be career, projects, weight loss whatever what got you started?
Honoring Your Temple is Not Just about Weight Loss
In my opinion honoring your temple is not just about weight loss, eating right and exercise. It is about taking care of the body God gave you spiritually, mentally and physically. It has come to my attention that I have been misrepresenting myself. I have showcased the physical worship of God and not the mental and spiritual. Partially because I’ve been on a weight loss journey; I am passionate about healthy, and fitness, and I have been sharing my journey on social media and through this blog. I have not been so public about the personal journey that I have been on in the last few years. The mental and spiritual journey I have kept to myself because I do them in my quiet private time but I find that it is equal, if not greater than my worship of God through physical activity.
“But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.” Matthew 6:6
Using our talents to spread His word
I believe our purpose is to spread the gospel, and there are so many ways we can do that. We all have our strengths, and I have recently reconnected my love of fitness, nutrition, and health. I have found that I love to inspire and motivate others through fitness, but there is so much more to me too.
“It would be a shame to be fit for this world but be unfit for the King.”
I believe that physical fitness is important, but a relationship with God and knowledge of His word is more important.
Honoring your temple includes:
Things you watch;
Romans 12:2 – And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what [is] that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God
The things that you say,
Ephesians 4:29 Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear,
The way you treat others,
Luke 6:31 And as you wish that others would do to you, do so to them.
Among other things.
Worshiping God is done in many forms: dance, song, written, fitness for example but one is no more important than the other. It is your way of bringing glory to the Lord.
Misrepresenting my purpose
It has been brought to my attention that I was misrepresenting my beliefs on honoring your temple. August 1st, I will begin my third prayer channel this year, and I have invited the public to join me this time. I put an invitation on Instagram to join, and women commented, that she thought “honoring your temple” was to keep clear of a worldly desire not just physical fitness and that if she joined that would be her focus. Those who know me personally, know my heart but because I am a fitness blogger; I enjoy fitness and nutrition, and I talk, post and share about it daily but that is not solely where my heart lies. Nor is it the sole intention of my Honor Your Temple prayer challenge but if you do not know me personally, never experienced my prayer challenge it would be safe to assume that physical fitness and proper nutrition is my focus in my prayer challenge.
What’s my point?
So, this prompted me to write this post to let everyone know that there is no one way to honor your temple there are many and your relationship with God is the ultimate honor and my intention and purpose to share. We are here to spread the gospel. However, you choose to do so and connects you with God. Treat your body with respect other than salvation it is one of our greatest gifts. What do you believe is important when honoring your temple? Is it one particular thing or several things?
If you’re interested in joining my 30 Day FREE (I would never charge someone to pray) Honor Your Temple Prayer Challenge, please join us at www.FaithFueledFitness.org
Last week, I went to a magical place, far far away called Los Angeles, and I entered into the world known as IDEA. It was such an amazing experience, and I was blessed to been able to attend it. I went to the IdeaWorld BlogFest Convention welcomed with open arms. I got to hang, learn and be around my people. Over 14,000 Fitness Professionals from 54 Countries attended and the entire week was buzzing with health, nutrition, fitness and wellness. It was everything that I expected!
Exactly what I didn’t expect
I expected to be educated about blogging. Suspected that I would meet a few women that I connected with and were nice. Intended on eating every day I was there. Knew I was going to workout before I attended that’s a given at a fitness convention. I was positive there would be vendors with fitness equipment, exercises, etc. I’ve been to a few expo’s I know how that part goes. I knew all these things were going to happen but to the caliber that they were executed; I didn’t know that.
The Workshops
Each workshop had such great information, you didn’t want to get up to use the restroom because you might miss something. I did have to leave once so I audio recorded the session because I didn’t want to miss a thing. With all the water we received, lets just say we were well hydrated the entire time. The first day was full of workshops do’s and don’ts; tips and tricks, quick valuable, actionable information overload tweet breaks. The tweet breaks were great, it was direct information from the Brands that we love. They told us specifically what they are looking for, who do they hire and teaching us great information in a 20 minute session. That was awesome to hear news from The Bells Institute, Generals Mills, Siggi’s, GymGo,Vital Proteins and Melissa Hartwig co-author of the Whole 30.
Blogging Tips
The blogging information was just what this newbie needed. I’ve been blogging since May 2015, and its been advice, some good, some bad, trial and error but I think I am finally getting the hang of things. I have attended events in Philadelphia and New York but the amount of immediately actionable information that I received was right on time. If someone who is already doing what I am doing and successful at it tells me to do A+B; I’ll take their word and do what they advise. There is no need to reinvent the wheel. So, I went to Los Angeles ready to be a sponge and soak up everything I could.
Learning from our Peers and Pitches
We also had blog reviews from our peers, which was great to have a completely non-bias eye on the blog. I met other beginner(s), seasoned veterans and some women who have taken their blog, personal training and business to a level I aspire to be. The feedback which I received from others in our industry was invaluable. Everyone was so kind, so honest and helpful, it was a great experience. On the second day, we had the opportunity to pitch to major corporations. I believe I presented myself well but a barrier that I often face is my “in your face” Christianity, which I am not going to change and if Corporations can’t work with me because of my beliefs I’m okay with that. Either way, whatever the outcome it was a great opportunity to practice. The opportunity to network was welcomed & necessary to everyone participating.
John 15:19 does say, If you belonged to the world, it would love you as its own. As it is, you do not belong to the world, but I have chosen you out of the world. That is why the world hates you.
Staying Well Fed
The fact that I didn’t have to worry about feeding myself and there were options for my dietary needs that I didn’t have to think about, my food was a nice change of pace. It was like having my meal planned and prepped for me; It was wonderful! Breakfast was with General Mills on the first day and Silk on the second. Lunch was from Pure Protein and Morning Star. Each meal session gave valuable information about our sponsors and what they’ll be up to in the next few months. It was nice to get the inside scoop and information.
Our meals were of a great variety and using the sponsors products, some, I will be adding to my meal plan at home. Silk was represented by The Blender Girl she made an amazing Strawberry Red Bell Pepper Smoothie at their booth that I am going to make for my family without telling them the ingredients (hubby may know, he reads my blogs). It was delicious and I never knew that would be a tasty flavor combination. I have so many new recipes to try and you know me, I love a good kitchen experiment. So stay tuned for more of those hitting my “Mealtime Monday’s.”
Bands Matter with Gunnar Peterson
I was at Idea World Blogfest and World Convention for three days & worked out three times. I could have done more but being a newbie I didn’t plan my schedule accordingly. Although, I don’t think my body could have handled much more; next year I should be in even better shape and will try to challenge myself. I was pretty spent on Saturday. The fitness aspect of IdeaWorld Blogfest didn’t happen until the second day. I do wish that they would have had a yoga session Thursday morning or something to have us moving. By the time it was Friday, I was ready to workout with Gunnar Peterson. The workout was great with resistance bands/high-intensity exercises. If you check out the video, you can see the struggle and a glimpse at our workout.
Experiencing the Todd Durkin Experience
Saturday, I arrived at Idea World Convention early to attend the Todd Durkin Bootcamp. That experience had me in tears, I didn’t realize what this last year has done to and for me. Brought me out of depression, motivated me to get up, be active, healthy and inspire others. Todd’s words of encouragement to all of us had me teary eyed with pride. I was praying to God not to let me embarrass myself by vomiting everywhere half way through a circuit. I did it though, got through it, didn’t vomit and had the sweat to prove that my fat was bawling and the workout was great. It was a great way to end the most intense workouts that I have done in awhile; the Bootcamp brought me back to my first days working out where it took prayer, willpower and determination to get it done. Here I am, 50lbs lighter and more determined than ever to reach my goal and destination! It was a Mind, Body and Spiritual experience, something that I aspire to give to my clients one day. After the intense training with Todd, I attended a Workshop by Scott Rawcliff, Metabolic Mayhem, which fascinates me. Saturday was a fantastic way to end my trip learning from the best in the business.
Two Amazing Women
There were two speakers at the Idea World Convention that motivated and inspired and made me want to go after my dreams. Each of their stories were very different ones, they choose to move on to something new and exciting. One of the speakers was forced to move on to something new and stimulating; the other chose to move on to something new. I am talking about Jenna Wolfe, who formerly was a Health and Lifestyle Reporter for the Today Show and Amy Van Dyken-Rouen the six-time Olympic Gold Swimmer. Although, each of their stories were different, their messages were the same! You can achieve anything and everything but tomorrow is not promised. So we must take advantage of today and make it count to the best of our abilities. I video’d each speech and have been listening to them on Audio for motivation. Everyday human beings can do extraordinary things and these two speakers, expressed that wholeheartedly.
My Biggest Takeaway
The takeaway that I had was that fitness is not age, color, race, ethnicity, size or gender. Fitness is a mindset! Want to uplift your body and be the best? Adapt that mindset. My experience at Idea World Convention was memorable. It was my first time but next year I will be attending as a Personal Trainer and the world of opportunity will be greater and brighter. I want to thank Fit Approach Sweat Pink for making me feel welcomed and organizing a great event for bloggers. I came home motivated to take this blog to another level. I am grateful that I had the opportunity to attend. Next year, I hope/aspire to be even closer to my goals and fine tuning my blog. For now, I am going to take what I have learned, apply it and improve upon it every day. I have no idea how but I am praying God will lead my steps.
** I was inspired to try my first Facebook Live: If you want to check out all the Goodies I got
1 Timothy 4:8 For while bodily training is of some value, godliness is of value in every way, as it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come.
As a Mom of three little diva’s (Divine, Inspirational, Virtuous, Anointed). I find that daily “Me” time with the Lord is essential to raising them, but short little momcation is a bonus. I used to fill every aspect of the day to managing my household. My only break would be a few necessary bathroom breaks, a quick shower or maybe five hours of sleep that I would get each night. That would leave me spent, stressed, resentful and often a “not nice” mommy often.
My middle daughter often says “What-about-me;” it’s one word for her. Anytime her sister gets something, does something, or goes somewhere; My Lailah pipes up, “Whataboutme?”. During a particular day, where many prayers of patience and wisdom were said, it dawned on me. “Whataboutme”? When do I get me time? What would I do with it? What do I need from it? I need some peace, serenity, clarity and sometimes guidance in my life. Where can I find that for free (therapy is not cheap)? Time with God.
Matthew 6:33 But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.
After rearranging my days, waking up a little earlier. I now start my day off devoting to the Lord for 30 minutes, if I am lucky an hour. The results are amazing. I began reading a chapter of Proverbs and reflecting. Then, I started buying women’s book Bible studies and doing those. Then I graduated to inductively studying books of the Bible. Every morning I retreat to my space on my back porch early in the morning when it’s just me and the birds chirping. There I get exclusive “Me” time with my Father. Pure soul contentedness when I take the time to devote with Jesus gives me the peace the I need to overcome the daily annoyance of mommyhood.
Psalm 95:6 Come, let us bow down in worship, let us kneel before the Lord our Maker;
We are taught to spend time in our Bible daily, but when I devote for 30 minutes in the morning somehow, it gives me the tools to use later that day. Sometimes it is exactly what I need other times it is exactly what I am going to need.
2 Peter 1:3 His divine power has given us everything needed for life and godliness, through the knowledge of him who called us by his glory and goodness.
Now, I don’t feel so warned down, short tempered I can show people and especially my children in the most pivotal moments. I feel like I am a priority in my families life even though sometimes they don’t express their appreciation because I know I am a child of God’s and His priority. That 30 minutes a day fills me up so I can tackle the next 16 hours of hard labor as a little diva’s household manager.
There are still days I am holding on by a prayer (because divas’ can be divas sometimes). Stressful days are less frequent, and I now can show grace. Each morning I am reminded of His grace.
I can show unconditional love and patience with my husband because of the unconditional love and patience God shows my family and me every day. All because I give myself a little me time every day. I feel when honoring your temple it doesn’t mean just to eat right and physical activity. It’s also your mind and your spirit which is an important part of who you are. Those things need nurturing and exercise too.
Colossians 4:29 Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear.
How do you deal with parenthood stress? Do you get me time and how do you like to spend it?
I got B.R.Y.C.K.E.D Up, and I want to do it again and again. Two weeks ago, I was able to participate in something so fun, intense and different. It was an hour and 20 minutes of pure sweat, laughs, smiles and hardcore non-stop workout. I got B.R.Y.C.K.E.D Up, and I am now hooked. I was invited by a friend to try a new workout; Of course, I was gamed! When I got there, it was instantly enticing. It was like stepping into a club there were Black Light, Strobe, Disco Ball, Carribean, Latin, Hip Hop music and sensory overload! After the 2 minute warm up I was drenched in sweat and Tru Adams, the creator of Brycked Fitness was like, “Now let’s get started.” It was on an popping from that point forward.
What is B.R.Y.C.K.E.D Fitness?
In my opinion, B.R.Y.C.K.E.D Fitness will be the next fitness phenomenon. I was privileged to experience it from the Creator, Batrice “Tru” Adams.
B.R.Y.C.K.E.D stands for:
Bootcamp.
Resistance.
Yoga.
Cardio.
Kickboxing.
Endurance.
Dance.
Who thought of that?
B.R.Y.C.K.E.D is a crazy INTENSE workout. Endurance is required and dancing makes the workout tolerable. All the movement makes you forget that you just did 40 squat jumps or 50 lunges then jabbing and kicking all in a 2 and half minute song span. It makes it okay that you are doing bicep curls with resistance bands and then jumping jacks because you’re sweating and having fun. Tru Adams created B.R.Y.C.K.E.D out of the desire to create her a workout program. Tru compiled everything she loved and inspired her into this jam packed fitness workout program. Tru has been working in the fitness industry for over ten years and wanted something efficient and with variety. She couldn’t pick just one, so she added EVERYTHING. (My kind of girl)
What is B.R.Y.C.K.E.D Like?
B.R.Y.C.K.E.D. appealed to me by covering all of your basics, adding on to others skills, and having different movements from song to song. This format allows so much variety in one workout. I tend to get bored quickly with the same ole workout routine, over and over again. I burned 1100 calories in the one class. When I left the workout I was famished, pumped and woke up sore; but in a right way. I hate cardio, but if cardio looked like B.R.Y.C.K.E.D; I see myself taking three classes a week. B.R.Y.C.K.E.D. could replace my normal workout routine. It’s that good! I also loved the Yoga part I never thought to include balance in my cardio but Tru slides that in too. Imagine doing Tree pose after you just squatted it out. Performing the Warrior Stance in between some high-intensity moves; I loved the mix of skills.
Where can I get B.R.Y.C.K.E.D. Up?
I am fortunate enough that the creator of this fantastic workout is near me local in the Southern New Jersey area. There are opportunities to become certified in B.R.Y.C.K.E.D and also participate in Live Classes. Words cannot do this class justice. Once you experience it you will want more! I plan on getting certified in B.R.Y.C.K.E.D in the Fall or Winter and putting a Faith-based flare on it. If there is a B.R.Y.C.K.E.D instructor in your area, I highly suggest you try a class. What do you think? Would you try B.R.Y.C.K.E.D if it was in your area?
