Taking better care of myself (The Body Confidence Program)

There are many reasons we don’t take care of ourselves and if you’re a mum, that list of reasons is definitely longer!

I could tell you about my upbringing; being a minister’s daughter, putting other people’s needs and feelings first was drummed into me. I could tell you about struggling with depression after my daughter’s death which led to me not loving myself. I could tell you about our very stressful house renovations that went from a few months to a year making me comfort eat. I could tell you a lot of things that have led me to not putting myself first (or second, or third, or…) and feeling very negative about myself. BUT…

… in the end all of these reasons are irrelevant. What IS important is the realisation that I HAVE to take better care of myself, no excuses!

Not taking care of myself means that the weight has piled on, my energy levels have diminished and, for the first time ever, I’m feeling my age. While making sure my family eat healthily is a priority and I love experimenting with the healthier versions of recipes I post here, I often grab the easiest thing to eat on the run (which usually isn’t the healthiest).

But no more excuses. And to help me put myself first I’ve signed up to The Body Confidence Program. It’s an 8-week program that focuses on following a healthy lifestyle without having to count calories or exercise every day. There’s lots of support and the guarantee you’ll drop two jean sizes if you follow it properly. It sounds like the perfect solution for me!

Day 1 starts tomorrow, so today I’ve been enjoying the foods that aren’t allowed (bread, cheese, salami and also coffee). But the great thing is, especially for someone like me who rebels against restricted diets after a while, is that you’re allowed one cheat day a week when you can eat whatever you like (and thank goodness for that!).

Please wish me luck. I’ll post regular updates of my progress (and, when I’m brave enough, the ‘before’ shots I’ve taken).

Here’s to a healthier and happier life, not just for those I take care of but for the most important person – ME!

Disclosure: I’m very lucky to be doing The Body Confidence Program for free in exchange for documenting my progress. My opinions are honest and my own.