Tag Archives: exercise

Exercise: do what you love

9 Aug

I’m going to make a bold statement here: I hate running.

Nothing about pounding the pavement or tearing up the treadmill really appeals to me.  The only running mileage I clock up is the brief spurts of jogging I do when feeling particularly energetic on my walks. But then my lungs start burning, my face turns an interesting shade of red, and I return to the glory of my walk.

I am a walker. Not a runner.

And I’m perfectly ok with that.

However, just because I don’t run doesn’t mean I’m not fit.  Fitness is a very individual thing, and we all have our strengths and weaknesses.  You may be born to run, while some may be better at lifting heavy things, and others masters of mobility and flexibility.  The important thing when it comes to exercise is to just do something.

The options are endless when it comes to fitness and there truly is something for everyone.  So if you aren’t into running or going to the gym why not consider these options:

  • Sign up for a dance class
  • Play group sport such as basketball, soccer or football
  • Join a walking or hiking group
  • Get gardening! If you don’t have a green space of your own, volunteer at a community garden
  • For the more adventuresome folk, why not try rock climbing?
  • Make a splash: swimming and water sports are great in summer
  • Cycle to work or school and consider joining a local club to meet like minded folk
  • Try Crossfit if your after a short intense workout which is sure to get you fit
  • Setup some at home options: fitness dvds, exercise bands, and dumbells are all great options.
  • Head to the local park and let your body be your gym! Try one of these equipment free workouts.

Get your rear into gear with this lower body workout (click image for link)

If you choose an activity you love, you are much more likely to stick with it.  Movement really does matter for our health and wellbeing: it prevents disease, keeps our hearts healthy, and is excellent stress relief!  So if you don’t love what you are doing, try something new!  Fitness is meant to be challenging, but fun too.

I personally enjoy circuit style strength training which keeps my heart rate high and strengthens my muscles.  I do it because I enjoy it.

For me running sucks.  But it may totally be your thing, which is great! I’ve heard the post sweat mood boost is amazing.

But I’ve got my own way of experiencing ‘runner’s high’…

It includes sitting on the couch, with a bar of dark chocolate, watching the men’s olympic sprinting…

Now that’s an endorphin kick I really enjoy :)

-Sarah xo

Running: love it or hate it?
What new sport or exercise have you been wanting to try recently?

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Mind over matter

4 Aug

Your mind can be your greatest ally or your worst enemy at times, especially when it comes to health, wellbeing, and even sports performance.

The London 2012 Olympics sees some of the world’s greatest athletes falter under extreme pressure, or an underdog exceed everyone’s expectations.  All the competitors have proven their ability to make it to the top, however, athletic talent is only one factor to the equation.  Being in tip top physical shape is essential, but the power of a performance is also determined by the mind.

Strong mind, strong body

Sports psychologists help athletes deal with the incredible pressure using various relaxation techniques, positive psychology, and one of the most important: visualisation. The power of visualisation and mental training is tied to one important physiological fact: the mind knows no difference between an actual and an imagined activity.  “From the brain’s point of view, when you create an image of an act, that fires off the same neurons in the brain as physically performing the act,” says Victorian Institute of Sport sport psychologist Paulette Mifsud.

“The signal strength, if you like, is greater when you actually perform the act – when you actually lift your leg as opposed to thinking about lifting it – but the neural pathways are the same. And so visualisation strengthens that neural network so it’s more accessible, and becomes the pathway your brain follows naturally.” (Quote taken from ‘All Psyched Up’ by Amanda Hooton, Sydney Morning Herald 2012)

But this technique is not just for the elite.  Visualisation, relaxation, and positive psychology can improve all areas of your life!  Here are a few simple ways they can help:

1.  Heal with hypnotherapy

This alternative therapy is becoming increasingly popular to treat a variety of issues including overcoming addiction, pain management, and even treating irritable bowel syndrome.  However, the exact mechanism of how hypnotherapy works is still under question.  One suggestion is that hypnosis decreases activity in the part of the brain associated with daydreaming, and lets the mind become more open or ‘susceptible’ to suggestions (Source).

To read more articles on self-healing click on the image above.

Putting theories aside though, the benefits of hypnotherapy are becoming more recognized by the scientific community, and particularly for the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome.  I can personally say that I’ve tried it and noticed a marked improvement in my symptoms.  The process includes deep relaxation and training your brain to imagine your gut working synchronously and harmoniously.  It is also important to repeat these visualisations often, so they become the new ‘normal’.

Hypnotherapy can help a variety of ailments, and has few drawbacks compared to say drug treatments, making it an ideal choice to consider to improve your health.

2.  Think yourself stronger

As stated above, muscle strength is not solely determined by the size of your biceps.  Sure size does factor into the equation, but it is your ability to use those fibres which ultimately determines your strength.  So how can you improve your neural network and get fitter faster?

The easiest way is to ‘put your mind into the muscle’.  When working a muscle, such as your biceps, visualise and feel those muscles contracting as you progress through the movement.  The benefits of this technique include greater activation of the muscle, as well as more focused training because you are more ‘present’ in the activity.  Try it today and you’ll be reaping the rewards in no time!

3. Reduce stress and balance your body’s hormones

Stress is literally a killer.  Even though we’ve caged all the predators, our primal ‘fight or flight’ response remains unchanged.  When we detect a threat, our body sends out hormones that stimulate an increase in heart rate and breathing, among other things.  The problem is that these days we’re no longer fighting off lions and tigers, but mortgages, final exams, and the rising cost of living.  And so the stress becomes chronic and can lead to high blood pressure, heart disease, obesity, and even a decreased immune system.

This interesting documentary looks into the chronic effects of stress on the body. Click the image to watch online.

So how’s a modern day gal or guy to cope?  Learn to relax by controlling your breathing.  Simply close your eyes, inhale for a count of 5, hold for 2, then exhale for a count of 5. Repeat this several times and you will find yourself becoming more centred and calm.

It is quite satisfying to know that your brain can better your health, and I hope you find my techniques and suggestions useful.  Why not try one today?  You are only one thought away from being better, faster, and stronger!

-Sarah xo

Do you use any visualisation of relaxation techniques?
How do you cope with stress?

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One step forward, two steps back

21 Jul

Sometimes despite our best intentions, we falter.  It starts with a small slip, something insignificant.  A ‘one off’ which really isn’t that big of a deal.  But then suddenly time ticks over and the trip ups start to accumulate.  And then suddenly you find yourself sliding down the mountain you fought so hard to climb up.

This is exactly what happened to me during the latter part of my semester this year.  The stress of studying, assessments, and exam preparation saw my weight take a landslide.  But no one really seemed to notice, so I just carried on as normal, telling myself that I would deal with it when exams were over and I had a break.

To be honest, I don’t weigh myself often at all, maybe once or twice a month.  I really don’t care to know that number.  I just try to tune in with how I’m feeling, how my clothes fit, and my energy levels as a guide.  By the end of the semester I felt lethargic, and weary, so I suspected my weight had taken a bit of a dip.  But I wasn’t prepared for the number that stared back at me when I hopped on the scale.

This is why I hate the scales. Seeing that number made me feel like a failure.  I felt so ashamed.  How could I be back here once again??? And so the negative thinking started…

I knew I needed to get back on track, but I just couldn’t find the energy to do so.  I slipped into what I call ‘autopilot’.  The solution was simple, but I just couldn’t seem to do it!

I didn’t dare talk about it either; instead I just blamed myself.

I think part of the problem with mental illness, whether it be depression, anxiety, mood disorders, obsessive compulsive behaviour, or an eating disorder, is the stigma attached to it.  Many of the sufferers feel like they can’t talk about what’s really affecting them because their friends, family, and society may not understand.  A lot of people just assume that those suffering choose to be a particular way, and that they should just snap out of it.  If only it were that simple.

So I’m breaking the mould and telling you that it’s ok to talk about it.  It doesn’t make you any less of a person.

Everybody has their demons.

I’m facing mine, and hope this encourages you to face yours too (whatever it might be).  I asked for help from my doctor, I talked to my friends, and I told my family exactly what I needed to get back on track.  Support is imperative.  Those who truly love you will be there for you!

The other important thing is to have a positive outlook.  Maintain optimism in the face of adversity.  Your mindset is the most powerful tool you have.

The thought manifests as the word;

The word manifests as the deed;

The deed develops into habit;

And habit hardens into character;

So watch the thought and its ways with care,

And let it spring from love

Born out of concern for all beings…

As the shadow follows the body,

As we think, so we become.

-Buddha, Dhammapada

Indian philosopher & religious leader (563 BC – 483 BC)

I’m writing this piece honestly, but I’m not searching for sympathy.  In fact the exact opposite! I know I’m strong enough to get through this, but others may be struggling and are too scared to pipe up.  So this is for them.  To say it’s ok to ask for help if you falter.  Break the stigma, hold your head high, and march towards success.

If I can do it, you can too.

If you or anyone you know is suffering from an eating disorder or other mental illness, please consider getting help from a professional.  Search for specialty services in your area, or talk to your doctor about treatment options.  

How do you stay positive in life?
Let’s share some inspirational quotes!

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Monday’s Moves

17 Jul

Hey there everyone! Just wanted to wish you all a happy monday. Did you have a good weekend?

I know we usually start the week with a dose of motivation, but I thought I would mix things up a little.  I feel like I haven’t shared many workout ideas lately, even though I love working out! So today it’s all training talk.

Since finishing the LiveFit program a few months ago, I’ve taken a more relaxed approach to my gym sessions.  I still lift weights, but am enjoying a wider variety of activities such as going for walks, taking classes, and practicing Pilates.  Pilates in particular is one of my favourite ways to workout.  It is great for core strength as well as stress relief; a saving grace during hectic times in our lives!

I could go on and on about my love affair with Pilates! But I’ll spare you that rant and just share my top 3 moves instead.

The roll up

This exercise works the entire abdominal region so kicks butt over the standard crunch in my books

For a description of how to do the roll up click here.

The Hundred

One of my favourites! Get your heart pumping and abs burning

For a description of the hundred exercise click here (scroll half way down the page)

The Teaser

This exercise is no joke…it really targets the abs, and requires good posture.

This picture shows the full version of teaser, but there are many modifications to suit all fitness levels. Click here to read the descriptions.

If you haven’t tried out Pilates I urge you to give it a try.  It will challenge your body, your mind, as well as sculpt some amazing abs.  While we’re on the topic of abs, I’ll also mention Angela’s July No-Crunch Core Challenge. This lady puts together some amazing workouts that are super effective and leave you feeling energized (and more than a tad sore at times too!).  During the month of July there will be 4 different workouts to try on her Fit Bit Friday, so head on over and check them out.

Here’s to an awesome week ahead!

-Sarah xo

What’s you favourite abs exercise?
Pilates, yoga, or both…what’s your favourite?

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More than the sum of my parts

16 Jun

“If you constantly live in a state of ‘if only…then’, you completely miss out on the joy of just being.”

Yesterday I stumbled across this quote and it really got me thinking about my past.  I used to be a very ‘grass is greener on the other side’ kind of gal. Never satisfied with where I was.  Always looking to improve myself in some capacity, believing I should be more independent, have a better job, or be fitter than a fiddle.  And while I couldn’t change some of my circumstances, there was one thing I could control: the way I looked.

If only I had straight hair…

If only I had a toned tummy…

If only

If only

If only

I was young, naive and insecure.  I truly believed that looking a certain way equated to happiness, and success.  I mean that is what the media wants us to believe right?!?! Otherwise there would be no need for make-up, or gym memberships, or the newest diet to get your bikini bod in no time.  Physical perfection becomes synonymous with happiness.  And we buy into it.

For me it meant wearing the right clothes, exercising like a fiend, and making sure my hair was just so.  From the outside it appeared that I had it going on, but on the inside I was far from happy.  I distinctly remember looking in the mirror one day and realising something that made me truly sad:  I defined myself by my looks, my physical fitness, and my diet.  But I didn’t know who I was anymore!  I think if my friends were to describe me back then it would probably be something along the lines of ‘Oh that’s Sarah, she works out a lot and eats boring food’.  After realising this I took a long hard look at the way I wanted my life to be and decided to make a change because

I am more than the sum of my parts.

I am smart, and caring, and loving.  I’d even like to think I’m funny at times too.  And surely that must count for something!  My pursuit of perfection had turned from healthy to obsession.  Untangling myself is taking time.  Letting go of bad habits and replacing them with more helpful ones won’t happen overnight.  But I am being patient, and it is paying off.

Today I am right where I need to be.  I do things for the right reasons.  I exercise to enjoy the feel good endorphins, I eat to enjoy different tastes and nourish my body, and I dress according to my personal style and flair.  But more importantly I smile!  Because I am more than the sum of my physical parts.  As I release myself from these internal struggles I start to see the world and life more clearly.  I believe we are all a ‘work in progress’, and life will continue to throw challenges our way.  However, I encourage you to embrace the struggles, as they are not a sign of weakness, but merely a way to test our will and prove our strength.

Being honest about where you are in life takes courage.  I am far from what I once was, but not yet what I am going to be.  And so I leave you with this quote to ponder…

Remember it’s never too late to change the road you’re on.

-Sarah xo

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Fun Facts & Fiesta Fried Rice

3 Jun

Hey guys, how is your weekend going??? I spent yesterday successfully writing up notes for some of my subjects and also procrastinating like crazy by spending too much time on Pinterest. That website just sucks me in every time!!!

Today I’d like to take a little time to respond to the many generous awards I’ve received from fellow bloggers.  I know I’m probably a little late getting back to everyone, but better late then never right?  So a big thank you to the following blogs for my nomination (and if I missed you I’m sorry!!!):

inspiring and healthy running in london, Whit Likes Fit, and barefootbeing for the Liebster Blog Award

madisoncary for the One lovely blog award

The Burned Hand and Run. Dog. Cat. Me. for the Kreativ Blogger Award

Building This Nest for the Versatile Blogger Award

Andrea Drugay for the Versatile Blogger AND Very Inspiring Blogger Award

and I’ve also been tagged by Cats London Marathon and will respond to her question below.

I am humbled and honoured! Now on to the second part: facts about me.  From the number of awards listed above I think I need to list about 387 different facts about me, but that’s just not going to happen.  So here are a few fun facts as well as my response to Cat’s question:

1.  My favourite TV show at the moment is Revenge.  I love all the twists and turns it takes…plus Joshua Bowman is kinda hot.

2.  I like my food to be ridiculously hot! If it’s not steaming it’s not hot enough.  I’m also that crazy person that boils the kettle, makes a hot drink, then sticks it in the microwave.

3.  I don’t like cheese.  Growing up I think I realised cheese didn’t agree with me that well so I just steered clear.  I don’t miss it because well….I can’t quite remember what it tastes like!

4.  I love Kitchen appliances!!! If I had room/could afford a dehydrator, vitamix, cuisinart, or kitchenaid I would have them.  But for now my stick blender and mini food processor will suffice.

5.  I still haven’t finished my chocolate easter bunny.  I like chocolate, but just in small doses. Very small doses apparently.

6.  Peter Alexander pyjamas own my heart.  They are super cute and comfy.  Maybe that’s why it’s so hard to get out of bed in the morning.

So comfy!

7.  Lately I’m loving circuit training!  I mix up my moves swapping between dumbbell/barbell exercises, the TRX, kettlebells, the fitball, and plyometric exercises.  I just mastered the one leg stability ball hamstring curl.  This exercise is amazing for your hamstrings and butt!

8.  My favourite number is 15.  Maybe it’s because I was born on the 15th.  Second to that is number 8.

9.  These fashion faux pas kind of bug me: socks and sandals, crocs (they are not shoes, I don’t care how comfortable they are!), and guys who wear skinny jeans but kind of way too low down.

10.  I’d love to write a book one day.  I’m not quite sure what about, but it’s gonna happen.

And now on to answering Cat’s question: I’m frequently lacking inspiration for healthy quick lunches, and often end up with a tin of mackerel (good oils and protein), some microwave Basmati (low GI carbs), and a bit of lettuce (fibre and water, and one of my ’5-a-day’). Can you help with a simple, tasty suggestion (that doesn’t include banana or avocado, as I’m allergic!).

I’m all about quick and healthy lunches which use up leftovers.  Here’s one of my favourites that I pack and just quickly heat up in the microwave before eating.

Fiesta Fried Rice

Prep Time: 5 mins

Cooking Time: 15 mins

Serves 2

Ingredients:

  • 1 tbsp garlic infused olive oil
  • 1 large carrot, diced
  • 1 celery stalk, diced
  • 1 tomato, diced
  • 1 jalapeno, finely diced (remove seeds to reduce heat
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/4 cup reduced salt chicken stock
  • 1 large chicken breast, cooked & chopped
  • 1.25 cups cooked brown rice
  • 1/2 cup chopped coriander leaves
  • 1 cup iceburg lettuce, shredded
  • Salt & pepper, to taste

Method:

  1. Heat oil in non-stick fry pan over medium heat.  Add the carrot, celery, tomato, jalapeno and ground cumin. Saute for 5 – 10 mins, or until vegetables soften.
  2. Add chicken stock, cooked chicken, and brown rice to pan.  Cover pan and let ingredients heat through for 5 mins.
  3. Turn off heat and mix through chopped coriander and lettuce.  Season with salt and pepper to taste.

The great thing about this recipe is that you can customise it according to your preferences.  Feel free to use a variety of different vegetables.  Red capsicum or corn would be a great addition!  I love taking the remainders for lunch the next day, and it’s just as good cold as reheated.

Now for the nominees! Instead of bestowing a particular award on other fellow bloggers I thought I’d just share a few of my favourite blogs with you.  Go check them out and see what you think!

Fitness Loving Mom - Fab recipes, workout videos, and tons more health related articles

Abz ‘n’ Oats - Inspiring journey of a fitness lover and recently graduated RN!

The Camel Life – BreezyK is sarcastic, whitty, and always good for a laugh.

Peace Love Nutrition – If you Love yoga, travel, and food, you’ll love Jocelyn

Just Eat Love – met this lovely gal at my photography workshop.  Go check out her great recipes (her blueberry and cucumber crumble is one of my favs!) and she has some great recipes!

Well thanks for listening to my rambles today, and thank you to all who nominated me for the awards.  Wishing you all a fantastic finish to your weekend.

-Sarah xo

What fashion faux pas really bug you?
Do you have a favourite or lucky number?

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Motivational Monday: Let’s Get Organised!!!

28 May

Happy Monday everyone!

How was your weekend???  Mine was actually quite productive.  I did uni work, rocked my workouts, cooked up some new recipes, and cleaned my house among other things.  I also spent Sunday afternoon planning out the month ahead in preparation for my exams.  Time management skills are really important and I find planning really helps me stay on track during stressful periods.  So today I thought I’d share some of my planning tips to help you keep a level head when working towards a deadline.

Make a plan and cut out the stress!

1.  Write in your deadlines/exams/assignments/upcoming appointments in your diary or use your smartphone if you have one.  This helps you figure out how much time you have to distribute your workload.

2.  Work backwards and schedule in 90 minute chunks of time dedicated to your deadline (be it a work project, exam or assignment).  I like using blocks of time as it makes the task seem much more manageable.  If I want to work for 3 or more hours on a particular topic, I write them in as 2 or 3 separate blocks, and make sure to take breaks in between.

3. Write up a list of break-time activities.  Taking breaks is essential to keeping your mind fresh.  Take a walk around the block, make a healthy snack, drink some water and do a few stretches.  If you want to check your email or facebook, I suggest setting a timer for 15 minutes so you don’t get sucked into that time wasting vortex.

4.  Plan out your dinners for the week ahead and make a shopping list to take with you to the grocery store.  This not only saves you time and money, but keeps you healthy! If you are in need of some good resources then check out these sites:

5.  Planning is all about balance, so schedule in quiet time and exercise.  To relax try taking a bath, reading, or just sitting and listening to music.  You also need to make sure to look after your body by moving in order to stay healthy both mentally and physically.  Do something that makes you feel good and gets your heart rate going too.  If you can’t make it to the gym, try one of my home workouts instead!

Just remember: Prior Preparation Prevents Persistently Poor Performance.  

What’s your best planning or organisation tip?

P.S. Picked up my new glasses today! What do you think?

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Flirting with Crossfit

19 May

Hey guys! How’s your week been? I’m super glad the weekend is here because I’ve got a lot of fun stuff going on.

A few weeks back during Adventurous April, I mentioned I signed up for a food styling and photography course. Well the workshop is tomorrow and I couldn’t be more excited. I’m not exactly sure what we’ll be learning, but will fill you in with all details after the event.

Copyright Dario Milano @ Food Pixels

Apart from that I’ll be going to Costco (yes I find that place exciting. The thrill of buying in bulk obviously runs in the family), catching up on work for university, and working on my fitness!

I have been a bit quiet on the fitness front, and for that I apologise.  So let me fill you in on what’s been happening.  At the beginning of the year I started doing Jamie Eason’s LiveFit Trainer, which I absolutely loved.  For the most part.  I have always enjoyed lifting weights, and loved the variety that the program offered.  I made it through phase 1 and 2 with no problems, but had to take more rest than suggested because my body seemed to need extra time to recover.  Subsequently it has taken more than the advertised 12 weeks!

I was excited when I finally hit phase 3, the home stretch of the program. Four weeks to the finish line.  I dove straight into the intense circuit style training, but found my energy began to wane as the week went on.  By the time week 11 rolled around I was spent.  Instead of looking forward to going to the gym, I started to resent my workouts.

So what did I do?

I stopped.

It wasn’t fun anymore, and I didn’t see the point in continuing if I wasn’t enjoying it.  More than that, my body was exhausted.  I was feeling sore, tired, and cranky, which are classic symptoms of overtraining.  So I listened to my body and stopped the program.

And you know what? It felt liberating.  After a week of rest I felt energetic, and refreshed.  Some may say I ‘gave up’, but I’m actually really proud of the decision I made.  The old me would have beaten myself up for not pushing through, but the new me is like ‘Yay for listening to your body!’

I was doing the LiveFit trainer for myself, and I didn’t have anything to prove.  I think the program is great, and I have definitely gained some muscle and strength over the last few months.  However, it was obvious towards the end that my body just needed a break.  So I listened.  Instead of going to the gym, I went for walks around my neighbourhood, did some light Pilates at home, or went to yoga on the weekend.

After about of week of light exercise, I started to think about a new fitness adventure to keep my body and mind enticed.  I searched around for a few different things in my area, and finally stumbled upon Crossfit Bondi.  To be honest, I’ve always been intrigued by Crossfit and their training philosophy.  I figured I had nothing to lose, so decided to call up and give it a try!

This past week I’ve done the intro session as well as one WOD (workout of the day).  The workouts are short and intense, but everything can be scaled to your ability level.  What I loved most was the supportive atmosphere of the group. Everyone encouraged you to push through til the end, which can really help when you are feeling the burn of those last few burpees!

I can honestly say that I’m hooked already and hope to continue my training with Crossfit Bondi.  The workouts are fun, the trainers are very knowledgeable, and the people are so friendly!  If you have ever thought about trying Crossfit, I encourage you give it a go.  Be prepared to work hard, but also reap the fitness, health, and friendly rewards!

Are there any fitness classes or types of training you want to try?
What are you proud of yourself for doing lately?

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Motivational Monday: Move More in May

7 May
move more in may

Happy Monday my lovely readers! And what a motivating one it’s going to be.  Can you believe it’s May already? Crazy I know! And with a new month brings a new challenge, are you excited???

This month we’re tackling inactivity head on by Moving More in May!  One of my favourite bloggers, Janetha (who is also a fan of alliteration like me) set us a new challenge this month to increase our activity outside of our normal workouts.  Increasing incidental exercise is not only a great way to break up the day, it also gets the blood flowing and can even burn a few extra calories.

A little more movement can do our bodies a whole lot of good.  I for one spend most of the day sitting. As a student I’m either sitting at a lecture, or at my computer, and then sit on public transport and go back home.  Yes I workout several times a week, but I do lack general movement throughout the day.

The great thing about this challenge is your moves can be anything great or small, so long as it’s outside of your official workout.  Here are a few ideas to get you started:

  • Wake up a little earlier and go for a walk before breakfast
  • Get up from your desk throughout the day and do some stretches or chair squats
  • Waiting for the kettle to boil? Knock out a set of push-ups in the kitchen
  • Dust off your bike and ride to the gym
  • Try some tricep dips during TV commercials
  • Go outside and play with your kids! Try hopscotch, monkey bars, or the swings

Those are just a few ideas, but let your imagination be your guide and just try something new!  By making it fun you are much more likely to stick to it.  I’ve made it my challenge to do one small thing each day, whether it be yoga after dinner, a push-up challenge with my dad, or blasting some tunes while I clean the house.  And I know you can do it too! So get up, get out, and move it!

What moves will you add to your day?
What’s your favourite animated film?

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Stupid Food Rules & Chewy Chocolate Cookies

5 May

I have always believed there is power in truth.  And today I am coming clean about a few things.  Firstly, I’m not perfect. Nor do I wish to be.  There was a point in time where I strived to be the ‘perfect daughter’ or the ‘perfect girlfriend’ or have the ‘perfect body’ and it almost killed me.  Striving for perfection is what led me to an eating disorder.  It affected all areas of my life: my relationships, my family, my friends, my work, and my ability to study.  Everything that had been going so well just slowly started to fade away as I became deeper and more obsessed with food. Or really the lack thereof.

But one day I decided enough was enough.  Life was worth living, and I knew I needed to change.

I can’t say the process has been easy, but it has been worth it.  I think recovery for each person is very much an individual thing. Each person has their own journey of self-discovery, slowly undoing the damage that was caused and learning to love themselves again.

When I was in the initial stages of recovery (circa 2010), I decided to seek out the advice of a dietitian.  She and I worked closely together, sticking to a meal plan to keep me on track and get my weight moving in the right direction.  Regular eating and increasing portions became easier with time, but the mental side was a real struggle.  Telling that mean voice in your head to just shut up.

No you’re not fat.

No you’re not lazy.

Yes you should and can eat dessert.

Overcoming stupid food rules and being kinder to myself is how I know I’ve come a long way.  You know you’re a little more healed when you can laugh at all the silly restrictions you used to put on yourself.  My mom and I were doing this yesterday, and I was in stitches remembering how pedantic I used to be.  The conversation went a little like this:

Me: ‘Hey do you remember there was a time when I wouldn’t eat fruit?’

Mom: ‘Yeah you were nuts.’

Me: ‘I know, but it wasn’t me, it was the eating disorder.  That thing yelled stupid sh*t at me like ‘Ohmygod fruit has sugar! Sugar is the devil! Eat that and die biatch’

Mom: ‘Haha, I’m glad those days are behind us!’

Me: ‘Yeah me too.  Now let’s make cookies and get high on sugar!!! Mwa ha ha ha’

I’ve overcome a good many food fears, but it didn’t happen overnight.  For me it was a process of unlearning bad habits, and replacing them with more helpful ones.

From no fat, to low-fat, to ‘Do you think bacon goes with this?’ (obviously I’m making up for lost time!)

bacon wrapped caramelized sesame asparagus @ How Sweet It Is (Click on picture for recipe)

From chicken breasts, to chicken thighs, to ‘I’d like my steak medium rare thanks.’

From lacklustre, to ho-hum, to loving life.

And from self-hate, to self-acceptance, to ‘Damn girl nice booty!’

I feel like a little more me and a little less e.d. every day.  But like I said, I’m not perfect.  I still have my bad days too.  The difference is now I choose life.  I accept those bad days for what they are and move forward.  Because I deserve to be happy, I deserve to work towards my goals, and you better believe I deserve to eat cookies!

Prep Time: 10 minutes         Cooking Time: 25 minutes

Makes about 30 cookies

Ingredients

  • 6 egg whites at room temperature
  • pinch sea salt
  • ¾ cup coconut sugar (or other natural sweetener)
  • ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • ½ tsp pure vanilla extract
  • 40g dairy free dark chocolate (70% or greater), chopped
  • ½ cup + 1 tbsp unsalted dry roasted hazelnuts, chopped

Method

  1. Line 2 cookie sheets with baking paper. Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F)
  2. Using an electric mixer, beat egg whites with salt until soft peaks form.
  3. Gradually add coconut sugar and continue beating until stiff peaks form.
  4. Fold in cocoa powder, vanilla, chocolate and ½ cup hazelnuts and mix until combined.
  5. Drop batter by rounded tablespoon onto prepared cookie sheets, dividing evenly.  Garnish with additional chopped hazelnuts.
  6. Bake 1 cookie sheet at a time on oven’s middle rack for 10 to 12 minutes per sheet, until cookies are no longer shiny.
  7. Allow to cool 5 minutes before removing from sheet.  Transfer to cooling rack.
  8. When completely cool, store cookies in air tight container, lined with baking paper.  Cookies keep up to 1 week at room temperature, or can be frozen for up to 3 months.

To download a printable version click here: Chewy Chocolate Cookies

These cookies are like slightly sticky with a chewy texture that is similar to a brownie.  On their own they are delicious, but if you are feeling in the mood for something even more satisfying, then do what I did: make an ice-cream sandwich!!!

Gluten & Dairy Free Ice-Cream Sandwiches

Simply make up a batch of banana soft serve, spread a small portion in between two cookies, and stick it in the freezer for 10 – 15 minutes to set. Pure bliss!

What fears have you overcome?
What is your favourite type of frozen dessert?

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