Dieting Club: 10 - 25 Lbs Community

Hi Friends!

Just wanted to touch base after my Costa Rica trip.

I am going to post the link to the spa/resort we stayed at so that you can get an idea of the theme of the trip:

http://www.panaceacr.com/

Costa Rica in general was paradise. It is gorgeous, and my trip was the perfect combination of adventure and relaxation. I zip lined, surfed for the first time, and hiked up the side of a mountain. But there was plenty of time to lie on a raft in the infinity pool and to lie in a deck chair in the shade and read a book.

But what I wanted to report here, is that although I just got back on Tuesday evening, I feel as though my time at this resort, absorbing their lifestyle philosophies has changed my life, forever, for the good.

Part of our package was daily Yoga. I have done yoga in the past, but this was life altering, meditative, restorative yoga. In 5 short days it not only made me feel physically flexible and strong. It gave me an emotional and mental balance that i have never experienced before.

The trip included food, and the the chef was outstanding. Everything was vegetarian based and of course local, farm fresh ingredients were used. They were fairly simple meals, but so delicious that I was inspired to consider a vegetarian lifestyle. Ultimately, after much thought I decided that I still want some animal protein and fish in my diet, so I am going to take an "all things in moderation" approach.

After eating so clean and healthy for all of the days of my trip, I did not want to come home and "blow it", so my first errand upon my return was to go to the market and make sure that I have the ingredients to make sure that my diet is rich in fruits, veggies primarily, and dairy, lean protein and grains in moderation.

I feel fantastic. My skin and hair are healthier, and I am practicing mindful eating and focusing on food to nourish my body. It feels amazing.

Today's DFJ:

Steel cut oats sweetened with some honey and topped with fresh, organic almond butter

coffee with cream and sugar

whole wheat tortilla filled with black beans, lettuce, tomatoes, carrots, radishes, onions, herbs, avocado, and some fresh pico de gallo and pineapple and berries topped with greek yogurt and granola *

*almost all of the veggies in my wrap were grown in my own garden so are fresh and organic, as we use no pesticides.

coffee with cream and sugar

grilled chicken breast over a green salad and corn on the cob

Pi, you might notice that I no longer use Equal in my coffee. I have decided to eliminate all articificial ingredients in food and drink. I am going to choose to use more natural products.

Finally, I have not lost any weight, as a matter of fact I finally quit smoking for good a month ago and gained about 3 pounds, weighing in at 143.4 today, but I don't care. I am madly in love with my body. I don't care if it is a bit flabby or has cellulite or my chest is too small or my thighs are too big. At this particular moment in time, I love my body because of all it has done for me, and to prove that affection, I am going to commit to feed my body nourishing food, and move a little bit everyday.

I hope to find a yoga studio that reflects that philosphy of the yoga instructor in Costa Rica. I want the meditative, reflective piece along with the moving my body piece.

I hope you are all well. Pi, I miss you. I am sorry I have been MIA. Life was hectic trying to get ready for the trip. But I am back now, and plan to be better about keeping in touch here.