It's exhilarating to get out early and see the sunrise! I've been bogged down with work again this week and skipped my morning exercise three days in a row. But today I just did it!
I've been working late every night and going in to the office early every morning this week and neglecting my morning walk. I was feeling tense and anxious. But this morningI had a wonderful 45-minute power walk at 6:30. It's hard to explain what a difference it makes in the way I feel. It improves both my energy level and my mood. I've got to stop putting my work above my physical and mental health!
At the end of any journey, it’s always nice to reflect on the experience and enjoy the exhilaration that comes with accomplishment. During the past 12 weeks, seven real women have opened their hearts and minds to women across the country. They’ve revealed struggles, shared empowering messages, offered valuable tips and served as genuine advocates for this program.
During the Choose To Move challenge, these women not only engaged in physical activity, they discovered a community of women who share a common goal – increase physical activity in order to develop a healthier lifestyle. Their success is a direct result of determination, commitment and the support they received from those in the Choose To Move community.
From a mom with three kids to a full-time college student to women in the workplace, our real women take on many important roles. And as women juggling multiple responsibilities, we want to be the best we can be - a common thread among women in America. However, in order to be the best for our families, we must do what’s best for ourselves. Our seven real women did exactly that! Each woman, in her own way, learned how to make time for physical activity and develop better eating habits!
For Ruann, Kara, Lisa, Melanie, Vernita, Kathleen and Zulema, the 12-week challenge has come to an end. However, the ultimate reality is that their life-long journey to maintain a healthy lifestyle has only begun. No matter where you are in this journey, I encourage you to rely on women in the Choose To Move community, as well as those around you. Take advantage of the Choose To Move program and turn this challenge into a way of life.
Dear Dr. Mieres:
About the only time I can find to walk is during my lunch break. Is it better to eat prior to or following a vigerous walk?
Thank you,
Ruth
Dr. Mieres,
I saw you on TV several months ago and while the face has changed some, the name surely was very familiar. I finally found out that you are a native of Trinidad and just wanted to tell you how proud I am of you and the great job you are doing.
I believe we attended the same high school in Curepe, Trinidad, SAGHS.
Keep up the good work.
Denise Baptiste formerly Charles
(Math Teacher/College Instructor)
Dr. Mieres,
I saw you on TV several months ago and while the face has changed some, the name surely was very familiar. I finally found out that you are a native of Trinidad and just wanted to tell you how proud I am of you and the great job you are doing.
I believe we attended the same high school in Curepe, Trinidad, SAGHS.
Keep up the good work.
Denise Baptiste formerly Charles
(Math Teacher/College Instructor)
Comments
Oct 23 | Linda in Granbury said …
Way to go! I agree with you about our pitiful TX weather....it's either too hot or too chilly. Well, not any more. I stumbled on to your blog through a series of events and I'm gonna go walk. It's 6:52 am and I feel horrible....stiff, achy. But I know - know - know!!!! that when I get home I'll feel great. Thanks!
Apr 01 | Melanie said …
I stumbled on this site and am committed to giving this program a shot. I picked your profile as most like me (same name, too). The winter was a rough one and I really let things go. Your beautiful sunrise picture is an encouragement to "get up and at 'em". Thanks.
May 10 | Susan Ruvio said …
A morning walk is a good plan for me. In 1997, I had a pulmonary valve transplant(the Ross procedure). I am only 48, and do not take any blood thinners,nor any rejection medicine. I have my own heart valve. The surgery was performed at Duke University Medical Center in Durham, North Carolina.
Jan 04 | Monica said …
Hi Melanie! Are you still part of "Choose to Move"? I just joined but I'm not sure what to do. I see that you haven't written in a few months but you might still be able to give me some advice. Like you, I teach at the college level and I know exactly what you mean about sitting at the computer for hours and then feeling stiff all over. The good news is that I have just joined a gym. It's the fourth time in the last couple of years so I really hope THIS IS THE TIME! Could you give me any advice as to how to make the most of "Choose to Move"? I downloaded the program to keep track of my goals, weight, etc. What else can I do?
Thanks a lot for your inspiration, and I'm looking forward to communicating with you,
Monica
Lorton, VA
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