Category: Weightloss Journey

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Fitness and Health Weightloss Journey Wellness

Are you getting the most out of your protein?

I was compensated by Deerland Probiotics & Enzymes through Kitchen PLAY. 

Have you heard of ProHydrolase?

Since I began my fitness journey, I have been on the search for a functional protein. I never knew the power of digestive enzymes like ProHydrolase.  I have found some protein powders that I really like. Recently, I discovered that I needed more from my protein powder. Protein powders aren’t all made the same, so it makes it hard. I also have many digestive issues, so that makes it even harder to find the right one.  Early on my journey, I realized that whey protein was not for me. Switching to plant-based protein seemed to help my digestion, but I still had issues like gas and bloating.  

My protein shake could be better. 

I have continued to search for the protein that won’t leave me gassy because protein supplements are a great way to help you reach your goal. Especially if you choose the correct one with a critical ingredient.

Why use protein powder? 

Most people use protein powder for pre- or post-workout. Protein powder is helpful to rebuild muscle and recover.  Some people drink protein shakes to find a source of low calorie, carb, and fat protein source. You can find many protein powders that fit those criteria, but it may be hard digesting them.  If you’re consuming one to two shakes a day, it can be very uncomfortable.

 

Why are protein powders hard to digest?

Many factors contribute to the poor digestion of protein. Seven factors you may have never considered that make it hard to digest your shake are:

1. Air Bubbles

are caused by too much air when you mix your protein.  The air bubbles sit in your stomach, causing bloating, cramping, and gas.  I usually shake my protein in a blender bottle. I like to drink my shakes in between my personal training clients or post-workout.  Something I never considered but all that shaking is adding air bubbles to your deliciously smooth shake. Those little air bubbles get released in your stomach and cause bloating and gas.  

 

2. Sugar Alcohols

is another reason your shake may be causing digestive issues.  Personally, I have an adverse reaction to sugar alcohol that causes my stomach to swell and bloat.  Most sugar-free proteins contain this alcohol and aggravate my stomach.

 

3. Slow Absorption.

It takes hours to absorb the protein shake. Meanwhile, the “shake” is sitting in your stomach without the presence of digestive enzymes like ProHydrolase to speed the process. Protein is sitting in your stomach, creating digestive issues. ProHydrolase has been in vitro studies and human clinical studies. The studies concluded:  that the capacity to quickly break down protein and increase the available amino acids in the blood will, in turn, lower C-reactive protein (CRP) levels and decrease the large peptides associated with digestive issues when consuming protein. Meaning, it makes it much easier for you to absorb more protein.

4.Optimal Protein Absorption.

Most proteins are not entirely absorbed in the body within 90 minutes.  If the protein has not been broken down to the smallest form what is remaining is excreted.  When you drink your protein shake, you are not receiving all of the protein that is labeled. You may only receive 30-85% of the protein that you consume — all dependent on the type of protein and ingredients. 

5. Lactose Intolerance.

Some people who are lactose intolerant don’t realize that their favorite whey protein contains dairy.  I explored the difference between Whey and Plant-based protein before, but dairy is called many other things, and Casein is one of them.  Sometimes you are consuming dairy when you don’t even realize it, causing havoc in your gut and digestive discomfort.  Casein is also an extremely slow-digesting protein. 

6.Too much protein, not enough carbs.

I look for a protein that is low in carbohydrates. It was one of my criteria when searching a protein powder to use. I didn’t realize that without the carbs, the protein remains in my stomach longer.  Holding the protein in your stomach for an extended amount of time can contribute to gas and bloating. Having a proportional amount of carbs in your shake helps you to eliminate it faster from your stomach and reduces the cause of digestive irritations. 

7. Protein Intolerance and Allergy.

Protein Intolerance and protein allergies may be another reason why you’re not getting the most out of your protein. You are protein intolerant or have an allergy that causes an excessive inflammatory immune response.  If this is your issue, you would want a doctor to diagnose you and seek their advice for a protein source.

How do I digest my protein?

Digestive issues can be embarrassing and inconvenient.  I know I have experienced digestive mishaps due to protein.  Recently, I heard of a digestive enzyme that helps you effectively and efficiently digest protein. 

Have you ever heard of ProHydrolase? 

I tried a protein powder with ProHydrolase for over a week, and honestly, I didn’t realize the difference until I tried it. While I consumed my protein with ProHydrolase, I immediately notice the lack of belly bloat. The plant-based protein powder I used also tasted amazing. It’s hard to find the right tasting plant-based protein. Although I prefer plant-based protein, ProHydrolase also helps you digest other forms of protein, including whey, soy, egg, casein, hemp, and pea protein. 

Better Protein Absorption 

It seems odd, but I also felt satiated longer. My protein shake usually leaves me needing something more within an hour. It’s more to hold me over until I can get some food. Perhaps this is because ProHydrolase has been proven to maximize the absorption of protein instead of excreting it, allowing you to get the optimal benefits. 

Find ProHydrolase 

I didn’t realize the difference in my protein until I tried a protein with ProHydrolase and now I make sure to check my protein to see if it includes ProHydrolase as an ingredient. It’s got everything I need. It’s even Non-GMO Project Verified, and Star-K Kosher certified.  When choosing your protein, look for ProHydrolase. 

Are you looking for better, digestible protein?

I was paid and compensated byDeerland Probiotics & Enzymes all the opinions are my own. My Full Disclosure policy 

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Product Review Product Reviews raising family Weightloss Journey Wellness

2018 Fitness Holiday Gift Guide & Desk Cycle Ellipse Giveaway

2018 Holiday Gift Guide

Turkey has been consumed! Family time has been had, and now if you haven’t already, it’s time to get ready for Christmas.

I am sure you have had some sort of clue from the Christmas Display that has been taunting us in most retail stores that’s it’s that time of year.  If you have intentionally been ignoring the festive advertisements until now.

Yay! Me too!

Time to start Shopping

Now that the last of the Thanksgiving leftovers have been eaten I am ready to decorate the house for Christmas.

For my girls it’s simple, and I pride myself in getting the girls Christmas complete the week before Thanksgiving and regardless of the early date this year. Now is the hard part shopping for others that I love in my life and the older we get, the harder it gets?  

I love checking out gift guides because it gives me some great ideas of things that I may have never considered. Have you ever considered giving someone the gift of Wellness?

Gift ideas for Fitness Enthusiast

No seriously, I know it sounds lame, but your gift can help some live a better life. Whether its makeup, skincare, fitness equipment or the gift of preventative health it all could be appreciated. There may be that person in your life who really values going to the gym, wellness or just fitness.  It can be daunting to find a unique gift that they don’t already have or may need.  

Feeling a little like Oprah but here are:

7 of my Favorite things

that are must buys for Holiday gifts this year! I am excited to share with you some of the things that I truly love this year. I hope it’s helpful and buying the perfect gift for the one you love. 

My Affiliation

We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com. 

This post also contains other affiliate links, which means if you make a purchase, I make a small percentage of the sale with no additional cost to you. Although, I was given these products or am an ambassador my opinion is entirely my own and can’t be bought. My Full Disclosure Policy 

Activmotion Bar

Life is dynamic, and our training should reflect that and really didn’t realize the potential until receiving my activmotion bar to try. This bar is excellent for anyone looking to add core stability to their workout or challenge themselves.  Activmotion bars come in different weights, and the most popular is a 10-pound bar.  This gift is going to add variety, body awareness, and stability to your workout and just a great tool to have if you like to exercise.  

Right now you can get 25% off your bar using code fitapproach25 from now until January 5, 2019.  Grab your bar here

PlateJoy

Plate Joy has been a lifesaver this year for me and definitely one of my favorite things.  Getting a subscription to this app would be an excellent gift for the Mom who is at her wits end with creative meal ideas.  Until I found Plate Joy, I was always frustrated trying to think of something healthy, fast and affordable for dinner.  When it’s the end of the day nothing is worse than asking your family what they want for dinner for them to respond, “I don’t know.”

Having my own personal meal planner that not only plans the meals but also makes the grocery list, tells me the correct portion size and even takes into consideration leftovers. It has been a time saver, budget minded and just a helpful tool.  I think any Mom would love to have a year of meal planning from Plate Joy for a Holiday gift!

You can get a Free Trial here, or You can get $10 off your Gift Card or Subscription with code FAITH10 Get your PlateJoy here.

Momentum Jewelry

Photo Credit https://beforeandaftermyemptynest.com/

Often get asked about my Inspire necklace from Momentum Jewelry! I customized it this summer to remind me of my “why” The Inspired Necklace inscribes “For His Glory,” and it’s a great reminder of why I do what I do!  You probably will always catch me with some type of Momentum wraps, jewelry, and accessories.  It’s nice to have wearable inspiration for when you need to see a reminder or your spirits lifted.  I think Momentum Jewelry is great for everyone, but this inspiring jewelry is meant for the Athlete in your life.

They are having so many sales for the Holiday’s grab some spark to share with someone in your life! Grab your Momentum Jewelry here.

 

Glider Gloves

It’s cold ya’ll! Every year around November I start to reconsider my residency in New Jersey. I was made for Arizona or New Mexico because I hate the humidity and hate the cold.  Winter in Jersey comes with hat, scarf and a warm pair of gloves.  The worst is when you have to take your texting handoff in the cold.  Get someone you love these warm and cozy Glider gloves that swipes just like your finger without the biting chill.  Great gift for anyone in your life this year!

Get your Glider Gloves here!

 

SoleHealers

Sole Healers are Therapeutic Stretcher and Massager for your feet! They are amazing, and everything begins at the feet. SoleHealers are a pair of foot and calf stretching tool.  It helps to increase circulation, flexibility, and range of motion in your feet. I highly recommend these to anyone whether you are active or not, using these after you Desk Cycle or standing on them and gathering your balance at the day. If you suffer from foot, knee, or hip pain, plantar fasciitis, tight Achilles tendon, bunions or hammertoe I would add one in for you too! These are by far one of my favorite things to use for recovery.

Grab your Sole Healers here and don’t forget to get you a pair too! Use coupon code “15BLESSED” to get 15% off your purchase.

Cross Training Couture Tanks, Sweatshirts and Hat

Often, I get messages of “Where did you get your tank or what we call a “Truth on a Tee”?

The answer usually is Cross Training Couture which is a Faith and Fashion line that I am an ambassador.

When choosing brands represent companies I have to personally love and believe in what they represent. Cross Training Couture’s ministry is to witness through fitness (And wardrobes) is similar to my own. I am grateful to be able to be a Cross Training Influencer for them.

Another way that I get to connect with women fueled by their faith and desire to honor their temple is through their CTC VIP group monthly. It’s such a God-centered group that devotes, worships, prays and workout together and if you’re looking for something like that in your virtual world you should join them. If you are looking for cute, hats, tanks, sweatshirts and more for you and your family. Check them out! Tell them I sent you through this link and got your very own Truth on a Tee for someone you love this Christmas!  Another one of my very favorite thing! 

Grab your tank here! 

 

 

Desk Cycle- Ellipse

Whoever thought to put an elliptical under your desk was a genius! I am pedaling right now and have to say since getting my Desk Cycle Ellipse I have been getting some extra cardio instead of sitting idle.  The Desk Cycle Ellipse can only be used while sitting and is excellent for a tall or short desk.  It’s very quiet and comfortable to adjust resistance.

The other day I cranked up the dial, and after reading through emails, I was feeling the burn — leaves very little excuses for why you can’t move.  There is an LCD that is found on the Ellipse, or you can have sit on your desk to keep you motivated.  My little divas have competition on how many revolutions they can get in their homework time.   I am obsessed with the Desk Cycle Ellipse and think it’s a fabulous gift for anyone who sits at a desk in your life and shares it on my Instastories. I am amazed at what I can achieve while sitting.  It’s a great way to get your body moving while you work.

Grab your Desk Cycle here!

Desk Cycle Giveaway

Have I told you lately how absolutely thankful I am for you? Some of you have been following me and supporting me from the very beginning. Others are very new to my journey.  Whenever you came in I am grateful for your likes, double taps, follows, shares and comments.  I want to say Merry Christmas and give you some motivation to stay active in the New Year!

You have no excuses now because I have partnered with Desk Cycle. We are giving away their new under desk exercise equipment the Desk Cycle Ellipse by 3D Innovations.  The giveaway will end 12/9/18 11:59 pm EST.  So enter as many chances as you can before now and then!

I want to wish you a Merry Christmas and hope I gave you some ideas for a gift for your loved ones!

Click Picture Below to Enter into the Giveaway!

 

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Faith Journey Fitness and Health Weightloss Journey

3 Years Ago I Started this Weight Loss Journey

Three Years Ago I started my weight loss journey

Three years ago I started my weight loss journey so; I guess it’s my anniversary! When August 4th came this year I questioned myself, “Should I celebrate it? Write about it? Are people sick of hearing me talk about it?” That’s when the whisper,

1 Thessalonians 2:4 but just as we have been approved by God to be entrusted with the gospel, so we speak, not as pleasing men, but God who examines our hearts.

which reminded me why I do what I do!

Why did I start my weight loss journey?

Three years ago today I decided I had enough!  

I needed to do something different!

Lonely, depressed and a Stay at Home Mom of three little diva’s I connected through Social Media, and that’s where I began my journey.

That is where I began holding my self-accountable through blog post and Social Media of the frustrations and triumphs of weight loss.

A friend gave me the idea. I told her privately that I wanted to journal my weight loss and she told me to share it on my Instagram (like everyone else) does and I did.  Thanks, Toni by the way because I have met some fantastic people through this journey.

Being vulnerable and sharing the realities of weight loss and I found others like me.

When I began this journey, I never started intending on creating a business. I was seeking a program that catered to Christian Women, and that is what I am beginning to develop three years later.

This all began because I was tired of being tired.  I didn’t feel like I was walking in the body I was meant to have. I saw other fit people running outside or working out at the park (because you would not catch me at a gym) and I wanted to be like them. But I had a lot of excuses no time, no money, and no clue.

I used to hate exercise

Growing up my parents never spanked us they chose an alternative form of discipline that has it owns consequences.  My parents would use “grounding us in our rooms” and exercise drills as punishment. Little offenses would be things like pushups, planks; wall sits for extended amounts of time.  Mile runs for more significant crimes or solitary confinement in my room for two weeks.  I was raised as the oldest of six children, so I spent a lot of time in my room and doing pushups, planks and wall sit.

Although my parent’s intentions were good, and children do need discipline,  the method now that we are older, is questionable. All but my youngest sibling will tell you that we despise exercise. Why punish ourselves as adults? Yet, the way our genes work it’s highly necessary to exercise to stay healthy and eat what we please. This, as I have shared before, is not my first significant weight loss journey.  Or the most weight I have ever lost yet, it will be my last.  By changing my attitude from resentment to worship has been a game changer.

For God’s Glory

This weight loss journey I was motivated by something different than in the past.  In the past, I was a Christian but not a Follower. Before I believed in God but had no real relationship.  This time not only do I believe in God but I have taken the time to get to know Him.  My external is a direct reflection of my internal;  From what I put in my mouth to what I put in my heart can be seen.  So, when I hesitated to celebrate my third year anniversary.  I went directly to Him. This isn’t to boast on what I did but to show what Christ has created in me.

“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!” 2 Corinthians 5:17

Why I do what I do?

There is absolute power in prayer, worship, and devotion.  Just like exercise and “clean” or Biblically-based eating has taught me.  The more you do it, the more it becomes second nature.  At this point, I am a statistics and a testimony.

According to the National Weight Loss Registry, “We have also started to learn about how the weight loss was accomplished: 45% of registry participants lost the weight on their own, and the other 55% lost weight with the help of some type of program.”

I can show that a program, consistent effort will get results. Most importantly I can show what happens when you use Scripture, prayer, and devotion as your motivation.

I really don’t believe I could have achieved what I achieved in the last three years without God. In the past when I have tried it on my own, I have cheated or failed.

My goal is now to be a light for His glory and share where my strength, motivation, and faith comes from in all that I do.

Momentum Jewelry 1″ Inspired Customized Necklace

What I do differently than I did three years ago?

I pray frequently some people would consider it obsessively but those aren’t my kind of people. As much as, you would talk to yourself out loud. I talk to God (and myself still too) sometimes.

Now I am not a saint, and there are lots of times that I don’t consult God about my decision. Those are not my good days and usually when I make mistakes or fall from grace.  But on the whole, my relationship with God is completely changed in the last three years, and I would say that I intimately have a relationship now that is a daily thing instead of a weekly celebration.

For example, We have three prayers in Bibles and Bootcamps to help us when tempted.  I have them committed to memory because I use it so often.  Prayer doesn’t need this 15 minutes ordeal it can be a short, simple praise or request between you and God.  Like:

“Lord, Give me the desire and commitment to honor my temple daily. In Jesus name, Amen”

That simple!

That one is my favorite prayers in the Bible and Bootcamps because it helps me to stay on track. God is in the business of answering prayers, so I find that He daily delivers on that prayer.

Food Fixation

Three years ago when I started this weight loss journey, I wasn’t aware of food fixation. Through a Book Study that I did with my FaithFueled Life Members about two years ago. I learned more skills of dependency on God over food which I can share today.  I also think that food is one of the hardest addictions to overcome.  It’s so satisfying, accessible, legal, acceptable, and we are inundated with opportunities and encouragement to indulge. The difference between need and want can easily be blurred.

Three years walking through this journey has not only strengthened my bond with Christ but has instilled a passion in me to help others honor their temple.  The obstacles that I have overcome, victories I have won, and amazing opportunities I have experienced have all been because I decided to live my life differently, lean on God and honor my temple.

7 Tips I have learned in Three years from starting my weight loss journey

  1. Everything you can’t do God can; so, lean in and hold on for the ride.
    2. This is a journey, not a race.
    3. You have to show up and do things you don’t want to do (at first 😉).
    4. The consistent effort pays off
    5. Don’t count the days, count the gainz
    6. If you don’t challenge yourself, ou can’t progress.
    7. You don’t care how long it took you once you get there.

What’s Next?

That’s the hard part this year! I have no idea! I have never imagined getting on stage, being featured in National Publications or having two online fitness apps: and PerFIcT App; that is really helping people or working at an amazing gym surrounded by amazing trainers.  Or to get to to help empower women!

Right now, I can’t afford to do another Figure competition. I tried Ninja Warrior Training, and my ankle is still not ready, unfortunately.  After experiencing my first significant injury in my life and recovery was a faith experience as well. My ankle is not prepared to train for a Spartan Race which has also been on my things to do list.

Honestly, I am seeking something different than just dumbbells and barbells.  I have no idea what that looks like but it gives me lots of opportunities to try something new.  Like I did three years ago.

Thank you!

For those of you who prayed, encouraged, and motivated me in the last three years:

Your comments, likes, double taps, retweets, direct messages, gifs, and in real life hugs and love have also gotten me here today.  I really do appreciate your encouragement and support.  It’s been an amazing journey, and I am blessed to be where I am today!

“I still remember the days that I prayed for what I have now! “

I would love to help you with your journey! 

Check out my other Anniversary Post to see what I have taken away each year! First Year, Not an Overnight Success Story: 2 Year Anniversary

 

 

 

 

 

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faithfueled friday Weightloss Journey

What happens when you surrender?

Desire to a Passion

It started out with a desire to lose weight, and then it turned into a goal to compete, and somewhere along the lines it became a passion for sharing, but before I started this fitness journey, it was not the Bible-thumping FaithFueled™ fit chick who began. The women who started this journey was so broken, desperate, lonely and spiritually deprived. Just my motivation for starting this journey indicates where my head spaces, vanity. The superficial, meaningless outside of life. It is what had gotten me to 205 lbs at 5’3, ’’ and it was holding me captive.

Up until September 2014, I was a Christian woman who was doing everything all on my own and called on God when needed. All my needs were to be met by me; I was a “self-help,” book study junkie. Hopping from Book Studies (some people call them Bible studies but in my opinion, if you’re just skimming over a few devotional verses and ain’t cruising through the word -it’s a study of a book some Christian author wrote.) Again, just my opinion.

I wanted the fulfillment, the inner peace, the joy of Jesus and I didn’t realize it was right there just a prayer away. It was until the end of September that I became aware of what I genuinely had been seeking through food, companionship and other things. Have an intimate relationship with Christ.

“ Do not offer any part of yourself to sin as an instrument of wickedness, but rather offer yourselves to God as those who have been brought from death to life; and offer every part of yourself to him as an instrument of righteousness.” Romans 6:13

Reality of Weightloss

It wasn’t until I had put all my insecurities, disappointments and let downs into a scale. It’s my “Surrender to Jesus moment.” I remember it vividly it was a long week of HIIT workouts, deprivation dieting, and just plain old self-willpower that had gotten me through that week, and this planner girl likes to track, so I took my measurements, weighed myself and lost it on my scale. It was not pretty, Christian-like or even something you tell people that you actually did, but I don’t mind; I did it. I smashed that and a small dent in the bathroom wall till it was in pieces.

I had put all of my own energy into that week. I thought I was actually getting somewhere I had also done a 30-day Cleanse, and I lost inches, but that scale only went down 6 pounds. Seriously? I was hungry, sore, tired and my need for instant gratification was not met, and that is when I let all that aggression out on my scale. Until about three months ago we didn’t own a scale haha. I really had a lot of resentment towards, and that is when in despair and frustration I dropped down to my knees, and I said, “Lord, I surrender…” Along with an extensive list of everything that I was trying to control on my own and then I said, “…..Lord, take my burdens and direct my path.”

 “I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.” John 15:5

I Surrender

That is where FaithFueled™ Life was born on that bathroom floor out of despair. I had run the race as far as my own two feet could carry me and it was time to tag God to help me finish the race. Now don’t get me wrong it was not an instant change of behavior.

This anxious control freak had a lot of growing to do. For about nine months I tried my best to “Be still” It was probably the hardest thing that I had done in a while. I went to the Word inductively studying it, sharing my breakthroughs here on the blog and journaling (because I love to write if you didn’t notice) through my journal almost a year and a half later Bibles and Bootcamp was created. My daily devotions had inspired months of Bible research and devotional writing without me even realizing it.

A few months passed, and my exercise experience began to transform. I was praying before and after workouts which motivated me to work hard in every workout. I was meditating on memory verses during challenging exercise, and I was conquering them with ease.

I was praying every day for “Lord, give me an appetite for the things you want me to fuel my body.” Two years later I no longer crave poor choices (like I used too), I actually crave healthy things. That was a battle all on its own.

Then all of these Godcidences began that was putting the exact people I needed in my life some to the exact day it’s amazing to see God’s in action.

“11 For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.12 Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. 13 You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.” Jeremiah 29:11-13 

God’s Plan

Then the Facebook ad that literally changed the trajectory of my life. I was scrolling (as I do almost daily) and a Facebook ad for the college I attend, Bryan University came up. I clicked “Learn More” and like that got a call from a man named George from BU. I had done those go back to school ads before and never answered the immediate ring, but this time things were different. We spoke for over two hours, and by the end of the conversation, I was gathering paperwork to see if I could get financial clearance. Like taking action on something that I never thought I would actually achieve. Two weeks later by the grace of God and some number crunching, finagling and reorganizing I was able to afford to go back to college to get my degree in Fitness and Exercise Science. First of all, say what? And then why? Why does someone need a degree to be a personal trainer? At the time I had the same question, but now that I have graduated I know exactly why- God’s plan!

A Revelation

Bryan University was challenging, and it was a huge adjustment, and very quickly I wanted to quit. It wasn’t until I was about 15 weeks in that the reason “why?” I decided to get a degree and not simply take a test was made very clear.

My professor at the time began talking to us about Special Populations. It actually wasn’t about the current curriculum it was an off topic chat that our class engaged in, but that day I had a clear, profound thought. “THAT IS FOR YOU!” I thought Senior Fitness “yep, that is what I am going to do when I grow up.”

As I have continued my degree, I have a passion for all special populations, and the majority of my VIP clients fall into that category. I actually don’t sign on VIPs who just want to look good you have to want to improve your health with me. I feel like there are plenty of trainers who can help people look good but the diabetic or 73 years, hypertensive, and metabolic disordered clients there aren’t many trainers for them. The people who just want to live a better life are usually left going it alone or with Trainers who took the cert and have no idea how to address their unique needs, understand their why or care.

Purpose Driven

The purpose-driven school I continued and now graduated from Bryan University. My plots to quit and just take the certification ceased and I actually began to enjoy everything but homework and discussion question. Then in November, I got a fantastic opportunity through NASM and AFAA they offered to pay for a certification in group training so that I could beta test their 2018 certification. So, two certs for free!!! Blessed! I took them and got certified and then my time I spent in the “desert” with God asking me to “Be still” let up and the floodgates poured out. ( I can be so dramatic, but it really did feel that way)

Since then I have been honored and privileged to be teaching group fitness classes to nearly every category in Special population. I also have gotten a job as a trainer at a fantastic gym which focuses on corrective training, sports performance and has a high special population client base.- Praise God!

Silver Lining

Through this, I have seriously filled a void with a relationship with Christ. I used to suffer almost daily from high anxiety, and now I don’t feel anxious all of the time. I used to hate being in front of or on camera….now it doesn’t bother me because my confidence has increased and I have something to say.

The education that I received at Bryan University has allowed me to be a better trainer. My client yesterday said, “My trainer never did this….(asked her to stretch, warm up AND cooldown). She also never gave her assessment for muscle imbalances. Took her money and gave her some exercises that were not at her skill level and discouraged her from doing it on her own. Through this, I have become passionate about research and am looking into evidence-based research almost daily about things of the human anatomy, kinesiology, and body mechanics. When I began this journey my go to Fitness Resource was Pinterest which I tell all my clients STAY AWAY! (That’s entire other posts 😉 )

Purpose Driven Living

I feel called to serve people through fitness. I am living and walking in my purpose. I am reflecting as I just completed an amazing Month! I got on stage for my first Figure Competition, got my degree and got my NASM Certified Personal Trainer Certification. (oh yeah I can add that one too the list) I am now working on my Corrective Exercise Specialist Certification, and I am astounded at all the things God has given me. The direction He has given me through this experience.

I also am excited about the opportunities that God has for me and set up for me in the future. I did a school presentation talking to students about Honoring Their Temple and Biblically Based Eating! We made snacks and read this amazing book for kids, called “Kool Kids & the Land of the GIants” teaching Kid’s about relying on God and honoring their temple. (My Kind of book) I have spoken at events, Church’s, two national magazine features, possible cable access fitness show, getting paid to travel and teach fitness with my family as well as amazing clients that I get to work with every single day.

You think I am inspiring? When these women achieve their goals; My  85lbs. Weight loss is going to look like small potatoes, and I get to cheer them on the entire time. I am truly blessed.

I am no longer lonely (I have a really great friend in Jesus), the people in my life are fantastic and love me unconditionally and support me and the ones who I thought did; disappeared or just left me alone…weird. (That’s another post)I have restored my relationship with my mom. I no longer care what the next step is because I trust that if it’s through God’s provision, it’s the right step for me. I feel content, at inner peace and feel the joy of Jesus.

My life has turned around from being purposeless to purposeful, and I am a testament to the glory of God creating beauty out of broken things. All because I decided to do something different, take a chance, surrender, and trust in God.

Are you holding back your potential trying to do it alone? What is preventing you from surrendering?

 

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Fitness and Health Self Weightloss Journey

Your Skincare is affecting your weightloss

Our Skincare can be affecting our weight  loss

Our toxic intake is sabotaging our weight loss efforts! What if I told you that your lotion is causing you to gain weight? What if I said you that what you put on your body; or absorb from the environment that you live in will negate a “clean eating diet?”

If you’re washing your dishes with chemical-laden dish detergent then eating or drinking out of those dishes is a directly going into your bloodstream. Something that seems harmless such as your shampoo bottle ingredient labeled “fragrance” can contain over 4,000 compounds of toxic chemicals. Why is this allowed you asked? Because beauty products and skin care are under-regulated in the United States.

Honoring your temple is more than food and exercise

When considering honoring your temple people completely forget the mind which is crucial. They also neglect the outside of the body other than their appearance. When you think of healthy lifestyle or honoring your temple, you immediately associate it with your fitness and nutrition, but there is so much more.

Your Morning Routine is to blame

Just think about your daily hygiene routine.

Bathing: you use soap, lotion, deodorant, possibly shampoo and conditioner and maybe even a perfume or fragrance.

You brush your teeth with plastic toothbrush and toothpaste which has a small traces but still toxic chemicals. You may use the product to style your hair.

Even your Makeup can be affecting your weight loss

Makeup? And you are putting all of these products on the most significant organ of your body or in your mouth.  The concept of skin absorption is not new there are nicotine patches, birth control patches even appetite suppressants.

That’s because the largest organ in our body is also the most vulnerable when it comes to toxic absorption. Some of these chemicals are having adverse effects on your weight loss efforts.

toxic intake

What is a toxin?

I think a precise definition of what I mean by toxin is needed too. Toxins can cover a broad range of things-there are internal toxins which are normal standard bodily functions which God has designed in us to eliminate through our kidney and livers.

Then there are external toxins from pesticides, industrial chemicals, mercury and so much more these are the toxins that I am referring to.  These are the toxins that are building up in our bodies and leading our organs to become overworked causing illness and weight gain.  These toxins are absorbed into our bloodstream through our skin, mouth, nose and then stored in our fat cells.

How do toxins affect weight loss?

When we go to lose fat and weight the stored toxins in the fat cells are released into our body and then causes our metabolism to slow down. Adverse effects to cellular structure happen too which also causes illness’ such as cancer.

There have been hundreds of studies on the chemical toxins and the effects on your body during weight loss. The Obesity Review in 2003, researchers concluded that pesticides and Polychlorinated biphenyls, also known as PCBs (from industrial pollution) poison our metabolism when they are released from the stored fat tissue.

What can I do to reduce my toxin intake?

I could literally go on and on about the adverse effects that we are doing to our body daily, but I encourage you to research for yourself.

You will be shocked at what is really in your lotions and body care products and what they are doing to your body slowly but surely.

Here are some recommendations on

Five ways to detox and reduce your toxic intake.

1. Reduce and minimize your toxic intake.

Easier said than done, right? Eat foods that are minimally process, organic foods, drink filtered water (which is a post in the making about our water filters), foods that don’t contain “food additives“, foods that are free of hormones, antibiotics, artificial sweeteners, artificial food colors, or artificial flavorings that were not initially found in the food. Let’s take it back to nature what God provided before we modified it to look or taste more appealing. Eat Biblically Based!

2.Get rid of toxins through sweat!

Exercise regularly, the use of saunas in a healthy and safe manner. Pesticides and heavy metals can be excreted through your skin by sweating.Did you know that workers at Ground Zero after 9/11 were treated through sweating in saunas to eliminate the toxins that were absorbed while they were working?

3.Detox through food.

I have detoxed by eating foods after unwise choices. Usually, I do it three days at a time. There are a variety of foods that can help you do this. Make sure you follow step 1 when choosing the types of foods.Cruciferous vegetables like: broccoli, Brussels sprouts, kale, cauliflower, cabbage, dandelion greens, cilantro, garlic, citrus peels and cocoa (definitely remember step 1 when choosing your cocoa) and drinking green tea can help detox your body.

4.Water.

Your body is designed by God to flush itself, and people fail to realize that water helps flush fat which is where the toxins are stored, so it is a great way to detoxify your body.

5.Be conscious of the products that you use.

My family uses Giovanni for our shampoo and conditioner- its made of sulfite-free products and all natural no synthetic chemicals. We use coconut oil for our lotion, Unrefined virgin coconut oil that’s it.We use Piperwai deodorant which works really well for when I work out. Deodorant is placed so close to your lymph nodes. It was one of the first things, other than the lotion that I replaced.

After making my own and googling lots, I finally found one that worked, and I could be confident being around people after an intense workout session.I think the more that we educate ourselves, the better we can be as consumers.  Unfortunately, we will never be completely toxin free not in the world that we have tainted from God’s original creation. But we can reduce our exposure and rid ourselves as much as possible.  This will help with not only weight loss but also with our complete health and help us to honor our temples.

Have you ever considered your body care products being toxic? What are some things that you have done to reduce your toxin intake?

 

 

I have shared products that I use with my Amazon affiliate links that I do make a commission from please See My Full Disclosure Policy. 

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