Beautiful Bodies

*Please forgive me, this post was meant to be published in February!

Here I am, keeping up on my (writing) goal for 2014 - are you?!  Taking time to write is helpful to slow down my brain and maybe offer some insight (perhaps some education?)  Taking time to read books 'for fun' and not just for knowledge helps me relax. 

Another one of my goals is to be sure that I am using my new 'fitbit' to track physical activity and nutrition.  As I've mentioned before, even health coaches, personal trainers, and wellness professionals sometimes struggle with the same issues that we coach and train others to overcome.  

Yep. A year ago, I was training for a half marathon, sleeping on a consistent schedule, and new to a couple of neat work opportunities. Since then, I encountered many of the same hurdles that I encourage and coach others through: Long-lasting injuries, negative work environment, poor relationship and dramatic breakup, financial burden, living relocation x2, false accusations/unsubstantiated claims and threats, worked hard to lose extra weight and gained it back. . .and I am not at all where I thought I would be.

BUT WHO WANTS TO FOCUS ON THE NEGATIVE?! No way! Use those stinky experiences to propel me forward, that's what I want to do.  Next goal:

Focus on what I want for 2014 (and beyond) including
being honesty, truly, deeply, everlastingly grateful for what my body and mind can and does do for me and for others every single day. 

Ultimately, we must remember that we are created for a greater purpose. ALL of us are given the responsibility to take care of ourselves as best we can: Mind, Body, and Spirit.  

My body has been fearfully and wonderfully made.

My mind is a powerful, creative resource and blessing.  

Psalm 139 provides this reminder.  

If any of us needs a visual reminder of how amazing the human body is (women, specifically), check out this article and accompanying photography: Beautiful Body Project

We all have a reason to smile, no matter the circumstances. For crying out loud, Job was singing praises when he had everything taken from him; Nelson Mandela continued to his compassionate crusade while imprisoned for years. 

Time for an attitude adjustment. And it will take daily practice. :-) For the month of January, I have been writing on a small calendar what I am thankful for each day. Simple, short little blips of happiness and gratitude.  In February, I will focus my gratitude more specifically toward . . . something. Stay tuned!

And smile :)