Thursday, March 10, 2011

in with the good and out with the bad!

Tis the season of Lent. For those of you unfamiliar, Lent is a Christian tradition that begins on Ash Wednesday and continues until Easter. It is a time of sacrifice and traditionally, a person participating gives up something during this period.

I love the tradition, as it is a time for me to reflect on areas of my life to improve and I also find myself thinking more of the Savior and his sacrifice. This year, I chose to give up bread and sugar. Two things that I've had far too much of the last few years and something that I can definitely do without! So far, it's been going really well! I feel much more energized, as my protein intake has gone up significantly and I've lost weight! The low carb thing really works well for me!

I was surprised when I first started at how often I would think about sweet treats. The sad thing is that normally, I would have satisfied my craving. Either by putting a quarter in the candy machine at work to munch on a handful of m&m's or by walking up to Walgreens (which is only about 50 yards from my work) and grabbing a treat. I was mindlessly doing this a few times a day! No wonder I've gained weight! Now I've started being more conscious about the things I eat.

I started my Lent fast on Monday and I have until Easter! I'm excited to see what new, healthy habits I gain at the end of this! Is anyone else giving up something for Lent?


Now, onto other news! My good friend Karlie is going to become a contributor on this blog! Like me, she's struggled with her weight and she has some great insight to share as she works towards her goal! I'm excited to have her here!

5 comments:

Claire said...

Go you!! I gave up sugar and white flour at the beginning of the year and it made such a difference in my weight loss and how I feel. I hope it works the same for you. Good luck!

Katie said...

Awesome, Shannon! Shamefully, I didn't really "get" Lent. Thanks for explaining it and I think I'll take part starting next year!

I'm so glad you're doing this again. I think you're amazing and can accomplish whatever you set your mind to!

Starting January 1st I've had no soda--that was my new year's resolution! I also resolved that this was the year I'd get in shape. I've lost 12.5 lbs! I keep saying to myself, "If I had known losing weight would be this easy and fun, I would've started a LONG time ago!"

WE CAN DOOOOO IIIIIIIT!!!

April said...

One thing that has really helped me is not just cutting things out, but adding in really good things. Greens, whole grains, more raw fruit and veg, etc. I like abundance thinking rather than deprivation thinking. But I have really benefited from fasts too. I'm glad you're feeling better!

Karlie said...

I'm excited to contribute! There is an awesome community of supporter out there, the support is amazing and helps you keep going through this fight for fit!

The Marquardt Family said...

Shan. Have you ever read the south beach diet recipes?? You need to. No carbs and no sugar. they give really great tips and GREAT recipes! My hubby has lost almost 30lbs on this diet. This is the diet how I lost my baby weight. Dont worry I still have 10lbs to go but WHATEVER!! ok anyways. Go check the book out from the library . This will help you. Let me know if I can help. Good luck love you lots. xoxo