Self-Coaching Week 1

I have come to a realisation: it’s time for me to prioritise my health and slow down.

Firstly I got Covid, and just two weeks later, I was hit by the most severe flu I’ve experienced in a very long time. It made me wonder why it often takes illness or a major event to force us to pause and reevaluate our lives.

Being bedridden for five days and feeling fatigued and sore for another three gave me time to reflect. Without the usual distractions of daily commitments, I couldn’t ignore the numerous commitments I had taken on.

As a nutritional science student, I also noticed that my eating habits had taken a hit during the last few months post 75 hard challenge. Sugary and processed foods, along with insufficient sleep, had managed to sneak their way back into my life.

So I have made a conscious decision to practice what I preach!

I’ve started a 6-week nutrition program, embracing meal prepping, following a carefully planned diet of whole, real foods.

And now, as I embark on week 1 of this transformative journey, I’ve decided to be completely honest and open about it. I want to share my experiences with anyone willing to listen, from the highs and lows to the day-to-day progress.

So, you might be wondering, what exactly does this journey involve?

The plan starts with meal prepping – I’ve made Sunday my dedicated day for this. I work on calculating the right portions for my family and select recipes that will also appeal to Luke’s taste.

My chosen approach is a Low Carb, High Protein plan (I prefer to call it a plan rather than a diet). This style of eating suits my body type best, which I found out through genetic testing.
(Feel free to message me about this! I am a huge fan of knowing some of these things. Because if you aren’t testing, you’re guessing)

For five days of the week, I enjoy three wholesome meals and even indulge in some good red wine. However, I dedicate two days of the week to fasting and consume fewer calories. My exercise routine on these days is relatively relaxed to avoid placing unnecessary stress on my body. It’s a chance to heal and rebalance my energy levels for the week.

So, how has the first week been? Well, it had its challenges.

The first fasting day with reduced calorie intake was tough – I was really hungry. It felt strange not to have that familiar, full feeling after a meal, which I had grown accustomed to. As a result, I went to bed early. The rest of the days, however, went pretty smoothly.

The weekends are a bit tricky, especially when I’m home with the family, and they’re enjoying pancakes or making honeycomb. Today, I may have to sample some honeycomb, but that’s okay! It’s just a small piece, and I need to remind myself that I’m human and it’s okay to have a treat. I won’t punish myself over it.

I believe the most challenging part of following such plans revolves around time management, our environments, and whether the food we’re eating is satisfying. Completely depriving ourselves isn’t the solution – that’s why strict diets and meal plans often fail. We need to identify what we can add to our lives and our daily routines to make these changes both manageable and transformative.

What I am excited for is our trip to Fiji in six weeks time. I want to feel energetic and confident in my swimsuit! I’m excited to swim, dive, explore and make the most of our time there. I also plan on enjoying some good food and drinks, lounging by the pool, and catching up on my favourite books.

I’m looking forward to returning from this vacation feeling content and fulfilled, not like I have to work hard to get back to feeling good. The goal here is sustainability, but it’s also about having fun!

This whole process is an exciting adventure. It’s about breaking old habits and forming new ones, and honestly, that’s the best part.

If you have any questions or need some advice, feel free to reach out! I’ll also be sharing my meals on social media each day/ week!

If there is anything else you want to know, send me a message and let’s chat!

Stay tuned for more updates!

 

Joni