Confession Time :
I’ve taken a long hard look at myself recently. At my diet, both eating and drinking and the fact, even after loosing 10lbs over the last couple of months I still feel very bloated and sluggish. As I’m creeping up to 46 now, I’m a size 16 ( I hated writing that so much) and my body shape has changed significantly in the last couple of years. I could list here, many reasons why I think this is the case, blaming other people and situations but I think at this point I need to take some ownership and get my head in the game to change things.
Up until now I was a pear shape, well I definitely went in and out, mostly out when it came to my hips. Not any longer, I am an apple and if I’m honest (to me) it’s really not attractive, it’s very unhealthy and I’m finding it overwhelming and depressing. I went to Wimbledon over the weekend, and of course wanted to treat myself to a new dress for the occasion. I think it was then, that it really struck me, as I struggled to find anything that suited my shape. Its more than that though, not only do I not feel happy with how I look I know I am eating and drinking the wrong things, but there are also thinks I’m not doing too. I do cook wholesome and good food but there is the whole lot of other stuff that I binge on, like sugar. Because of all of this in the background, my self-confidence is rock bottom. I look at myself and I’m just not happy. I feel like I need a kick up the bum and something with a definite plan that I can follow. After a bit of soul-searching and a whole lot tears truth be told, I am ready to make a change!
So I’ve put weight watchers (what I was previously doing) on hold and I’m going to try something else – a clean eating plan. I’m going to be sharing my journey doing the clean eating program for the next 21 days over on my Instagram and Facebook page, sharing how I’m feeling and the kinds of food I’ve been eating and I’d love to take you all on the ride too, if you fancy?
I’ve downloaded an app – Detox 21 Days which has recipes, shopping lists and lots of information and guidelines. If I get stuck there’s also a blog www.cleaneatingblog.com which has lots of inspiration too. I’m a vegetarian (I very occasionally eat fish) and this plans seems well quipped to work with lots of diets.
The first stage is to get prepped with a shopping list for the first 5 days.
Which I have just done, as well as familiarising myself with some of the recipes. I’m sure I am going to have days which are really hard, but I want to do this honestly, maybe picking up a few hints and tips along the way so I can share with you if you want to take up the challenge this summer too.
The cost of the app is £6.99 and its all about forming new habits as well as helping you to lose some weight. Which lets face it, for me would be amazing. The diet looks quite varied and though I’ve not seen this yet, it says that there are also some ‘activity’ ideas for easy to fit into your lifestyle too.
The benefits of our detox program:
- improved energy levels
- improved metabolic rate
- faster weight lose
- radiant, vibrant skin
- relief from headaches and migraines
- balanced glucose levels
- regular bowel movements once or even twice a day.
21 Day Detox App
Download to Iphone
Download to Android
So, this morning I’ve weighed myself (sorry not brave enough to share that with you) and taken a photo so let see what a difference a detox makes!
Amazing Amanda – good on you for going for it. I’m intrigued by the detox thing – something I probably badly need after an indulgent week in France! Love that outfit on you by the way, that stripey green number is gorgeous. Keep us posted on how it’s going! x
Good luck! I so need to do something like this but I don’t know if I have to willpower. I will be interested to see how you get on
Thanks Nikki. It was perfect timing to do it now, before the summer hol. Another update coming next week!
Well done lovely, this sounds great that you are excited to make changes, although I think you look ace as you are. I can’t wait to hear how it goes. x
Thanks Lori thats lovely of you to say, definitely another update next week.
This really resonated with me. I’m 40 next year and although I’ve never been slim, I’ve always had a decent shape – in and out in the right places. In the last couple of years though I’ve definitely noticed that dreaded middle aged spread and am much more apple than pear now. I’ll be really interested to see how you get on!
Middle age spreaf….I’d forgotten about that phrase, and yes I suppose that’s what it is with me too? So far, the big difference seems to be around my stomach/torso.
Really loved the honesty of this post Amanda. I think confidence and feeling good about yourself definitely comes from within and if looking after yourself inside and out is going to give you a boost then it’s a brilliant thing. I always feel so much better when I’m eating healthily and in control over what I’m eating and drinking. Weekends are my treat times and I couldn’t live any other way, but since having a bit more of a mindful approach to what I eat I’ve definitely felt better. Really interested to see how this goes for you as I might embark on something similar after September so kick-start the post-summer health plan!
I’ve been reading/watching about your changes too Molly. I definitely want to (going forward) have a bit more structure, and that includes having weekends off. I’m all for loving life, and for me the social aspect comes with good food/drink with family and friends. I just need to get the balance right 😉
Good luck Ana, I would so love to be brave enough to complete this. Can’t wait to see how you get on. Xx
Thanks Cathy, me too! Its a new idea to me too, so wasn’t sure what to expect. Another update coming next week!
This app sounds really good! I like that it plans everything and it’s so reasonably priced. I really hope your detox goes well and you reap all the benefits and feel re-energised! I really need to reboot my eating as well – have just been eating rubbish and don’t feel good about it
Laura x
I’ve never done anything like this before, so wasn’t sure what to expect, but feeling good! Thanks Laura 🙂
I really identify with what you’re saying Amanda. Would definitely like to know how you get on! Good luck x
Thanks Lottie. 9 days in now. Will do another update next week. Had one rough day so far, and it was really rough! Definitely seeing a difference around my torso…fingers crossed.
I think you look lovely – but it doesn’t matter what others think, it’s what you feel inside. Anything that encourages being mindful has to help – so good luck. Look forward to reading your thoughts in 20 days time 🙂
Yes one of the big differences I’m seeing is mindfullness I think. I’m really thinking about the food I put into my body, and eating slower…
I’ve always been put off detox plans because they seem so confusing, but one on your phone? Wow! I’m going to give this a try x
So much easier this way. It even has five day shopping lists!
Sounds like a really positive new start – looking forward to see how you get on xx
Thanks Gill, another update next week I think.