I’ve been slowly altering my lifestyle, and it’s paying off. I’m inspired by the responsiveness from my doctors, things I’ve researched and incorporated, and tips and inspiration on this forum. It wasn’t one big thing, nothing dramatic, just a lot of little things.
I’ve gained muscle mass, lost 4 inches in my waistline and went down 2 sizes, in about 3-4 years. And more importantly, I have more endurance, less pain, and better health. I weigh exactly the same, just more fit. I listened to Janet when she said she ate more fruits and vegetables to increase health. I realized that I wasn’t eating enough fresh fruit, and increased intake. I listened to Bear when he talked about plant-based diets, increased legumes and tofu, and got mega inspired by healthful recipes. I watched the Live to 100 show that Bear suggested and increased my physical activity through yard work. I was especially inspired by the amazing ax-wielding 105 yr old woman on the show and asked my husband to teach me how to chop wood. Now I help him chop and haul wood, and model/lumberjack Elizabeth Hurley is my secret role-model. I listened to Cheryl and Bear when they talked about their love of garden- fresh foods, and Yoli and Carolyn when they talked about medical advocacy and health, and Donna with awesome Eugene cuisine and good attitudes. It all helps!
Strongly advocating for specific types of medical care has yielded surprising results. My doc recommended spinal injections and pills for pain management for chronic thoracic pain. I asked for acupuncture, chiropractic, and P/T, which I got. I’ve been going to a pain management center that I didn’t even know existed and would not have known about had I not asked. No injections for chronic pain. Acupuncture and chiropractic have been fantastic. I listened to P/T when he showed me some of my old dog exercises - and how they could be done differently – much to my benefit, and increasing my yoga/isometrics and cardio, over time.
I like the idea of listening and being open to changing things for the better in a safe, gradual, and consistent way. Maybe a bit boring... but it’s been great! My mantra has been: “Keep up the good work, you’re on the right track”. Simple but good :-) Thanks for the inspiration! |
