By: Lisa Price – College of Pharmacy staff
Since I’ve worked at WSU Spokane Health Sciences campus, I’ve lost 60 pounds. The journey I’m on has been a lifestyle and mindset change. The process has been slow. I’m not at my goal yet, but I’m getting close and am determined to stick with it!
I’ve been asked what’s been the key to losing the weight. I’ll share a few strategies that I’ve used. The first has to do with simply getting started.
- ACCEPT THE CHALLENGE! PUSH OUT OF YOUR COMFORT ZONE.
I started a weight loss program, and began tracking my exercise. I love that the Fitbit syncs with my weight loss app to help me track. A colleague invited me into a weekly step challenge. It helps to be competitive, but even if you are not, set a goal and aim to improve on it.
I decided to complete a 10k trail run, even though I was not a runner. I told myself I’d mostly walk, but pushed myself and did better than expected. It was such a great feeling! Bloomsday was coming up. With the College of Medicine sponsoring a number of staff and faculty receiving registrations and T-shirts, I took the initiative, and signed-up. I saw Bloomsday training groups formed on campus. I challenged myself to run with a group, even though I wasn’t sure I could keep up. I’m so glad I did. I’ve developed some friendships, and found a community of support at work that has been very motivating!
Next, be determined and stick with it!
- BE PERSISTENT! WE ALL HAVE BAD DAYS AND SLIP UP, BUT IT’S WHAT YOU DO MOST OF THE TIME THAT MAKES THE DIFFERENCE.
I’ve slipped and fell back at times. But, keep moving, tomorrow is a new day!
Find activities that you enjoy. Make sure your meals and snacks give you a boost vs. drag you down!
- FUEL YOURSELF – TAKE ADVANTAGE OF OUR RESOURCES, AND HAVE SOME FUN!
We are fortunate to live in the Pacific Northwest! One of my activities has been hiking. Even in the winter it’s possible, rent or borrow a pair of snow shoes, strap them on, and go! Here’s a link to some trails in the area to check out.
Or, find something else enjoyable to you, and eat the right foods that will fuel your body! We’ve had some great healthy eating ideas shared on our Wellness Collaborative website, and I appreciate that we have resources like the NEP faculty, students and clinics here. Learn what works best for you. It’s hard to resist the donuts and other goodies that may be in the work area, and I love that I can have it if I plan for it! Most of the time, I eat what’s going to help me to stay active and healthy.
- TAKE TIME FOR YOURSELF…YOU ARE WORTH IT!
Finally, I have more time for myself now that my kids are older, but take time for yourself. Whether it is five minutes of deep breathing and meditation, yoga or some other activity, set aside time for yourself daily. It’s all about your health and you are worth it!!