For the entirety of my life I’m pretty sure I’ve been on a diet of some kind. That or denying that the food I was putting in my body was causing turbulence. THAT or I just didn’t care about it all and pretended that none of it mattered.
Then, a year ago I had fainted in a public area with thousands of people at an event. It was just me and my partner and we were in the thick of the moment and I just dropped to the ground as I was trying desperately to get out there. I maintained enough consciousness to get out and get back up after the collapse but it was in that moment I knew I needed to take better care of myself. The first place I started was my plate.
I kept track of macros, calories and the works. And for a long while, it really worked! I could see my clothes getting bigger, my frame getting smaller. I was feeling a little better because I was getting the nutrients I needed. It was good. The trick is that no one tells you how all-consuming calorie tracking can be.
Now, let me say this first: I am not a professional. I am a person. This is just my personal perspective and relationship with calorie counting. For some, calorie tracking can really work and be no additional negative effects. I love those TikTok’s of those fitness girls crushing their protein goals and measuring stuff out for the week. I love getting to see those people rocking that lifestyle!
But I am not one of them. I simply can’t be. My brain gets too obsessive and then everyone goes home cranky because I didn’t feed my brain enough and get snippy. No one is happy, including the body I was trying to take care of.
So why keep doing it? I didn’t. I learned a lot about portion control and listening to my body’s need versus wants in that time so I’ve been able to carry that over to now. I think a more intuitive approach is beneficial for me because it’s less restrictive- I don’t limit food choices. I don’t put limits on types of foods, good or bad. I eat and when I’m done, my body gives me the heads up.
There’s always something that works for everyone. Each body is different and you need to find what works for you. Have you?
Until Next Time,
Dana
My Bright Corner 