Judie-
Oh honey, I've been there, and my heart goes out to you.
There's been times I completely gave up wearing make-up because I just thought it looked ridiculous to even attempt trying to look pretty, as if I didn't deserve it. I'm a bit of an artist and I've always loved applying make-up! But then I'd look in the mirror with it on and would find myself wondering what the point was when I'd see my chubby cheeks and double-chin.
Just remind yourself you're worth it. If you cared enough to find this place and post what you're feeling, there's plenty of hope for you. Don't give up.
Food always used to be on my mind. Oh, what am I saying, it's
still always on my mind! Just try to change your perspective. I've learned to routinely challenge myself into finding ways to make my favorite meals leaner. I look for ways to curb my cravings, which varies from eating something that can be surprisingly similar (like substituting a frozen banana for ice cream) to plain old distraction (go outside and get away from that kitchen). If you literally have trouble swallowing water, ease into it by drinking something with a light flavor, like the new no-calorie flavored Dasani or my personal favorite, Propel.
As for beginning an exercise program, nothing beats good old walking. And it's ok to start out slowly. Park a little further out in the lot next time you do a little shopping. Loop around inside the store a few times. Take a walk around your block, or better yet, look for a pretty park walk through. Do as much as you can outside and concentrate on your senses.
Buy something nice for yourself, like a pretty necklace or some earrings. It doesn't have to be expensive. Use it to symbolize a comittment for a new you and wear it with pride. Maybe that sounds crazy, but do anything you can to feel good and remind yourself that you're worth it.
And most importantly, don't be ashamed of the body God gave you. Even when you find the right path to being healthier and happier, there's gonna be bumps along the way. And that's okay, anything this good is worth working for. Remember that you'll get there if you keep going the right direction.
This site is a great place to be. I hope you'll join us soon in the "300+ and ready to try again" threads. Not only are we all in the same boat and can share tips, tricks, and motivations, just writing what you feel and what you're going through can work wonders. I can't even begin to tell you what this place has done for me in this last month alone. I actually look forward to making some progress so I can keep it documented here. I mean, I think about what a horribly bad place I was at when I first came here, and how I even left for a while. But I'm back with a vengence. I remind myself every day that I am the one in charge of my destiny.
Good luck to you, and hang in there. Like I said, I hope to see you posting more soon. You'll love these ladies here!
Hi Newbie here needing lots of support
