New Chapter

I am feeling excited to share this new chapter in my journey! (Learning to create this blog being a part of this journey!)
I am still currently experiencing difficulties with changes in my chronic illness. But THAT is not what I want to focus on today. In spite of those issues I am learning to no longer be the victim of chronic illness. I want to be in control of my life experiences. I can't change the fact that I have a chronic illness, but I CAN control my reaction to it!

This year I have, for the first time in my life, focused on better nutrition, moving my body more, and working towards being MY BEST SELF. I will never look good in a bikini! And I will never be an athlete. But I can do what my physical limitations allow to improve my health and be my version of FIT!
I am trying to practice CLEAN EATING, which means eating more WHOLE FOODS like fresh fruits & veggies, nuts, seeds, lean proteins, eggs, whole grains... foods that are basically untouched by man. Eating less processed foods, prepackaged meals, and fast food. DIETING DOES NOT WORK! Self-deprivation does not work! But making small, gradual improvements, making better food choices at least 80% of the time can have a BIG IMPACT on our health! My husband stopped drinking sodas and his beloved "sweet tea", ate more sensible portion sizes, and cut out most sugary snacks, and he lost over 60 pounds this year! Just by making those changes alone! We both strive to stick to an 80/20 Lifestyle meaning 80% of the time we are making better food choices and getting some form of light exercise. The other 20% of the time we allow for a Friday night pizza, or a couple of light beers on a night out. Strict dieting and hardcore exercise routines are nearly impossible to stick to for most people!

I have also learned this year that it IS POSSIBLE to exercise as a person with chronic illness and pain. I have had to accept that the doctors and physical therapists were right about this one! "Move it or lose it". Muscles atrophy...shrink and weaken...with being sedentary. We tend to think that because we are in pain, it's best to not move around. But I have learned that even on my worst pain days, I can do some light stretching exercises or basic yoga, and I actually FEEL BETTER! Who knew!?
I would never advocate pushing our bodies beyond safe limits, and obviously not EVERYTHING works for EVERY BODY. But the smallest of changes can have BIG impact! Just be YOUR BEST self!

I do not exercise everyday. I do not get in all my recommended veggies everyday. I make no claims to be perfect, nor do I claim to be an expert on fitness and nutrition. I am not! I am simply sharing my experiences with learning to become the very best version of myself that I can be. One day at a time.

If you would like to share this journey with me, please follow this blog, follow me on Instagram at @neesafit, and please follow me on Facebook at: #NeesaFIT
I will be hosting various challenge groups and GIVEAWAYS from time to time.

🌸Love, Light & Laughter