Journey to Wellness with Sherri Mraz-Illes
Posted by Jennifer Popper on Tue, Dec 09, 2008 @ 08:48 PM
Ten years ago I was a stressed out single mother who didn’t know the first thing about self-care. I was always putting out fires and eating the first thing I could grab. I spent years on the roller coaster of feeling okay and then crashing.
The first place I began to clean up was the tape that plays over and over in our minds. At regular intervals throughout the day write down what you hear. You will be amazed at how unloving, critical and generally unsupportive you are to yourself. Start by switching to what you choose to hear or canceling thoughts altogether without replacing.
The other thing I did for myself was to get outside. By taking a nice walk you release endorphins into your system, get vitamin D, increase circulation and tone the body. But most importantly you have time to monitor your tape.
Then I discovered yoga. Not only is your body moving, stretching, working your endocrine system, and strengthening, but you also move through many layers of blocked emotions, opening your mind and heart to your own inner magnificence. Yes, you are magnificent.
All these changes need to be supported by a well-balanced diet, real food that does not come from a package. Eat organic vegetables, fruit, whole grains, protein, and healthy fats. Minimize simple carbohydrates and avoid chemicals (including artificial sweeteners, try agave nectar it does not alter the blood sugar at all). Eat three meals a day without skipping and you will be more satisfied, reducing the need to snack. Get support where you need it; friends, family and/or a coach can all help, “No man is an island”, build a support circle.
This is a journey, by making gradual changes to get to the 90/10 rule. 90% of the time you eat clean, fresh, wholesome ingredients. The other 10% you are going with life, a wedding, a dinner date, celebrating with family. Enjoy the occasion, it is not the time to scrutinize, enjoy special times with family and friends; this is what truly nourishes you in the end anyway.
Written by Sherri Mraz-Illes, CHHC, RYT
Certified Holistic Health Counselor, Registered Yoga Teacher
Come experience yoga with Sherri at Studio Fitness! 'Yogilates' on Mondays at 6:30 p.m. and 'Yoga for Athletes' on Tuesdays at 6:45 p.m.