This past week, I came to the realization that despite everything that’s going on in the world, including pandemics and political upheaval, I really like the groove I’m in.
That doesn’t mean everything in my world is ideal, but I’m happy with the things I’m doing. It’s habit, now, to walk between three and six miles on my morning walks, and I don’t feel quite complete until I’ve done it. I’m learning Spanish while I walk, too; I’m still a beginner, but I’m enjoying rattling off Spanish phrases while I walk, even if my neighbors probably think I’m talking to myself and I’ve lost my mind. I’m doing well with my business as the world continues to change. I’m in a great place with my way of eating, too, which has helped me achieve new lows.
As of today, I am 7.6 pounds away from the weight at which I’ll not only be below a BMI of 30 (to make those insurance people happy). Once I’ve reviewed my health markers with my doctor and possibly drop another medication, I may well be at the point where I will transition into maintenance and correction. Single digits away! That, right there, is more than I ever dreamed possible — especially at a BMI starting point of 67. Anything over a BMI of 40 is considered Class 3 Obesity. I’m merely in the very low part of Class 1, right now. Classy, yes? 😉 (If you’re new to the blog, please get used to my sarcastic view of the BMI, which I think is a joke.)
I’m also back to playing my horn. I have dearly missed it, and orchestra will not start up just yet because of the pandemic situation in my area, but making music is a part of me and I have needed it back. Much like starting on a health journey, though, the early stages are tough. I have to go through the initial challenges of getting my chops back, and that comes with time, practice, intent, and patience. That’s much like the difference between easing into and committing to lifestyle changes. It’s not instant. And it’s not very gratifying at all when I’m stumbling around in the early parts of regaining my abilities, but I know I’ll get there.
Like this journey, patience and persistence will pay off and become a joy to do. Something I will look forward to and attack more challenges as I hone my abilities. Getting to that place is the gratifying goal for both my journey and my music; it’s not just about improving my health. It’s the feeling of knowing I am in control of a body when I have seldom had control before. It’s the ability to adapt, to pivot when necessary, to even try new things with the knowledge that I can safely return to what I know works for me.
With Thanksgiving less than a week away, I know what I’ll be eating that day. It’ll be out of the norm for me. I’ll enjoy every blissful bite. And then I will clean up the effects of having eaten differently and reset. I used to struggle with food holidays because I feared that once I tasted foods I had removed from my normal life, I wouldn’t want to go back. That’s not the case, now; one of the biggest reasons I no longer fear the work is because I know without a doubt that the only thing holding me back… is me.
No, my life isn’t perfect. I’m not where I want to be, just yet. There are other changes I’d like to see in my world. But being satisfied with the knowledge that as long as I keep making the effort, I will reach those goals, is worth every bit of struggle. I am convinced that I would not be as strong as I am, today, if I had not struggled at all. Muscles get stronger when you challenge them. Playing my horn becomes easier when I gain control of my breathing, my embouchure (lips against the mouthpiece), my own skills brushing up on control and musicality.
The more I challenge my body, the better it becomes, and the easier it is for me to push forward through each challenge. The more in tune I am with my life, the more exciting everything I accomplish becomes.