A Healthy Lifestyle Doesn't Have to Be Boring

Submitted by Keita C. from Disability and Aging

I was very unhappy, both physically and mentally, and I had difficulty walking for long periods of time. I decided I was too young to be experiencing these health conditions, so I decided to make myself a priority and change my mindset when it came to diet and exercise.

I consulted with my physician and reached out for counseling – both for nutrition and my mental health. I did have weight loss surgery, but there were many counseling sessions and meetings prior to having surgery.

I wanted to come off my blood pressure medications, get healthier and increase my exercise. I also wanted to feel better, and to like the person looking back at me in the mirror.

I’ve come a long way in a short amount of time, and I enjoy seeing the results and feeling better. To continue to see those positive changes, I have to stay motivated to eat better and exercise more.

At the beginning, I did not have a lot of energy to exercise. A coworker and I started walking 10 minutes a day around our building on our break. It was small at first, but now I’m able to walk 30-45 minutes at a time with little discomfort. That has motivated me to continue on my journey.

I have learned that once I set my mind to something, I can accomplish it. I had goals to meet prior to my weight loss surgery. I began my journey in September 2022, and as of June 22, 2023, I have lost a total of 105 pounds. It has been difficult, and there have been many hard days, but I have been determined to keep on my track of living better and doing better for my mental and physical health. I have been taken off all my medication that I was taking prior to my weight loss, and I’m living a healthier and happier life. A healthy lifestyle doesn’t have to be boring. There are great options out now to make healthy living easy.

My advice is: Starting small is all it takes. There doesn’t have to be a major change at the beginning. Just set small goals, and when you accomplish them, work toward the next one. It’s easier to tackle when you are not trying to climb to the top of the mountain right at the beginning.