Friday, July 16, 2010

Walking to Win--Or Is It Walking to Lose?




About 15 months ago I made a commitment to lose some weight.At that time, my two sisters agreedto be accountable for 10 weeks. I decided I really needed to exercise, and so I bought a pair of good walking shoes, and started walking. I actually also got a membership at a fitness center. Of course I also changed my eating habits. I just tried to cut out sweets, regular pepsi ! and tried to limit fat. As a result I was able to lose 20 pounds in those ten weeks. Since that time, off and on I've tried to lose a little more weight. I've definitely fluctuated up a few pounds (or several pounds) and then been able to get back down. But I haven't been able to get below my initial weight loss.

This past week, I decided I really needed to make an all-out effort to lose about 5 more pounds. (I have a 45-year reunion of my nursing class coming up in August, and you know, you just want to try to look your best). I have been walking about 2 miles about 3-4 days a week. So about a week ago I decided to walk every day and really watch my food intake. I had maintained my low weight, but not gone below. Yesterday, I decided I needed to increase my exercise. So I walked 3.25 miles yesterday morning. (I went early as I knew it was going to be 90's with high humidity.). This morning--I was so excited--I was down one pound from my lowest weight! Well, I got so inspired, that this morning, bright and early, I walked 4 miles. It remains to be seen if this strategy is going to continue working.

I thought I needed some additional inspiration, so I decided to see what the Lord had to say about walking. Most of these do not actually refer to physical walking, but while I'm at it, I really should try to get my spiritual walk in shape as well.

Proverbs 13:20 He who walks with the wise grows wise..

Psalm 89:15 Blessed are those who have learned to acclaim you, who walk in the light of your presence, O Lord.

Isaiah 30: 21 Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear voice behind you, saying, This is the way; walk in it.

Isaiah 40: 31 But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, and they will walk and not be faint.

Micah 6: 8 And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.

6 comments:

Wanda..... said...

I can always tell when I haven't been active enough...and I head straight for the trails in the woods...and go 'Down' to the creek...it's always a job coming back up! :)
The more active one is, the better one feels!
♥...Wanda

Bernie said...

Good for you Donna, I need to get back to exercising. Rebecca would be a good one to walk with, I find it is better to have some one with me when I am exercising, makes the time go faster.
Have a great weekend.....:-) Hugs

Annie said...

GREAT JOB on your health journey!!! I have progressed from walking to adding a bit of jogging to my routine. This morning was the best as no one was out, the day was just waking up and the breeze was blowing!!! Keep up the great work!!!!

Rebecca said...

If Bernie meant ME, she's right -- at least she's right that I SHOULD be a good one to walk with! (This will sound like an excuse, but this past week I've had stomach issues that make me quite weak. I DID swim about 1/2 an hour one day and walk the other day--but slower than usual).

I am very, VERY happy for you, Donna. And your success encourages me to be more diligent and get off the extra pounds I've gained. Keep it up!

In the end, I'm not sure if it matters WHAT motivated us--if in the end we are healthier in body, mind and emotions....

Diana said...

Well Donna you were an inspiration to me today! And I certainly wish you all the best with your goal for the reunion! I have felt so lazy lately. It is so frustrating! I seem to feel more alive in the fall!
My favorite verse was Isaiah 30:21.
That is how I feel all of the time!
Love Di ♥

Becky said...

Keep up the good work Donna. I need to get more active too! That is my goal for this year.