Diet, Beauty and Exercise
To say the least, I have tried so many diets, beauty plans and exercise programs that I lost count of the number years ago. I could not stick to a regime for one reason or another.
So, what’s one to do, again? Start over, of course! If I do not start over, I will be letting life slip by without being a part of it and myself less than I could enjoy.
Retirement is a fine thing, but it can present many obstacles. “Use it or lose it”, both physically and mentally, cannot be truer than in retirement. Most retirees are NOT living the high life. Lack of money, declining health and a life without human companionship are REAL situations for many women and men.
And, now for us, retirees, anyone really, goals, dreams and facing challenges with “fire in our convictions” is so very important. That “fire within” that desire for magnificence are the reasons why I started my goal to enter the Senior Olympics, even if I am not an athletic with bad knees. And my website bot only to help myself through what lies ahead but hopefully make a difference for someone else.
Not to get religious, supernatural or into reincarnation but there is something going on. I honestly do not know what but I do know I’d rather face it as a warrior, as someone who tried, the best I can be for the time that is, than not.
OK, before starting any diet, beauty or exercise plan, I recommend a good medical checkup. Do you have medical problems, allergies, which need attention or could require dietary, activity, even skin product restrictions? I’d rather know what problems I have before I go running around doing what I shouldn’t only to break bones or end up in no so good shape.
Diet Plan
When I create a diet plan, any plan, I study what I have and have not tried. I ask others about their successes and failures. Everyday a new trend arises in the diet industry. I research the current trends for their viability. After which, I ask myself questions…some are…
What has worked for me in the past and has not worked?
What am I willing to give up? How much money do I have for the plan?
Will my diet plan interfere with my health problems and medications?
Is my weight loss goal reasonable and attainable – survive the test of time?
Can I stop expecting too much too soon – have a little patience – give things time to work – NOT hop on the scale three times a day?
Most importantly, what goal(s) will keep me moving forward – day to day?
With answers in hand, I revise an old plan and design a new path to follow.
Then, I boldly go into the kitchen and toss out the “bad” within reason of course, cannot waste money! If I find any lovely sugary creation of divine happinesses, the “bad”, out it goes. If it is there, I will eat it.
To add to the madness, I avoid those tempting treats when I go to the store. If I find myself wandering down the “goodie” isles, I divert my eyes, take a deep breath or wink at a handsome man (honey, at my age no threat there}.
As far as dieting goes, I am most successful when: I am less demanding of myself, set reasonable weight loss goals, do not totally eliminating everything by allowing a day to indulge in a treat or two, choose those foods which are easy to make and plan a monthly adventure to show off my new “hot” self.
Beauty Plan
My beauty plan is similar to my diet plan, any plan really. I study my current goals, past successes and failures and incorporate that information into a new plan.
Sounds easy, right? Well, there are hundreds of beauty products, and devices, each proclaiming, through every means of advertising, the latest miracle ingredient, or mechanic marvel, with promises of everlasting youth.
I can go broke testing every product that claims, “youth”. It’s just not the expense but also the time it takes, a month or so, to fairly test a product. I have not found a quick fix other than surgery. Talk about expensive! After all there is a special kind of beauty for those who chose to “grow old gracefully”. I can respect that.
Is not your perception of yourself which truly matters? A part of magnificence is to accept self and to develop self tutored by one’s own perceptions. From that comes strength and a kind of beauty no cream or potion can accomplish. Yet, it is kind of fun to play with creams and things. So, with a nod to fun and a healthy glance at reality, I proceed with a bit of a scientific approach.
So, my new plan started with a visit to the bathroom. I choose those products which are scientifically based on correction and not just hydration. Then, I gathered mechanic devices attuned to encouraging hair growth and tightening face and neck muscles. After that, I divided all my products, and mechanic devices, into three routines – am (before and after swimming), pm and weekly.
Really, what I am doing is changing my behaviors through behavioral modification and developing targeted habits through repetitive action. I want results that will last and not quick fixes. And, if life steps in and I miss a daily, so be it.
Exercise Plan
As with all my plans, it is a matter of studying past successes, failures and adjusting the plan for recent and future events such as past and pending surgeries (left total knee replacement), training for the Senior Olympics and climbing an ancient mountain (there has to be some fun).
I divided my chart into the following exercises categories: warm up, backstroke swim, power walk, weights/strength/bench, spot exercises to center on core, thighs and upper arms and physical therapy exercises (I did before and after surgery) for both knees/legs.
Within each category, I noted what is available to me…home equipment, the YMCA pool with its on and off availably, an in-town gym and out of town facilities. Since I live in an area of poor weather for traveling, I adjusted my exercises to home based if needed.
The Chart
Well, the chart is done AND well organized! A true masterpiece of streamlining, and setting aside much, keep it simple, so that I can actually follow it!
To all who did make their own plans, their charts…please…all that we have created, in the fashion that is best suited for each of us…is really a guideline.
Nothing is set in stone and if we miss a day’s chores of beautifying, let’s not put ourselves down for it. Life will step in from time to time and determine our day no matter what we have planned.
I suggest you put two words, FUN and FLEXIBILITY, on your charts…add spice to any plan, chart, goal, or dream. Keep records, write a journal as they can be invaluable. Remember…. your story is worth telling … you are magnificent!
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