Something Lost...And Something Gained...

Do you take the time at the end of each year to look back and reflect on your highlights, accomplishments and successes? Or do you focus on what goals you have yet to achieve, what you could have done differently, or wish you would have focused on instead? Personally, I used to focus on the latter. However, this year as I look back through the 12 months of 2017, I have decided to take a positive approach and celebrate the successes and achievements that have taken place, and finish off this last month on a good note. This year a common theme that resounded in my personal and professional life was "Something Lost and Something Gained." Of course, loss and gain can offer either good or bad experiences, but the following losses and gains of 2017 were all "good", and have provided profound growth opportunities.  

Something Lost: Judgement

In 2016, the "Well-BALANCED Life" blog post theme was really fun, as a different topic was presented each month that all added up to empowering you to move and live better.  The intention for 2017 was to try something different, with a "SIMPLIFY" theme, and do video blogs. It seemed like a great idea to spend less time sitting and typing, and more time moving and teaching you how to move better with simple, educational movements through exercise videos. You might be thinking, "Where were these video blogs?? Did I miss something?" No, you didn't miss them. I didn't do them. Instead of judging myself for not embracing and overcoming my fear of the camera, letting anyone down, or achieving this goal, I chose to let these judgements go. Instead of jumping to conclusions and judging situations or others' actions, I have also chosen to let those go too, as that feels so much better. 

Something Gained: Freedom 

By shifting the energy and focus to let go of judgement, the emotional and energetic burden caused by judging myself and others was lifted, which allowed a HUGE sense of freedom.  What a much-needed gift this was this year! :)

Something Lost: Hiding place

Throughout the 5 years of renting a small room inside two different Chiropractor's offices, I admired how confident they were with their practice techniques, business directions, and how they both took the initiative to rent their own space and move their missions forward. I've always struggled with confidence so I was content to just "hide out" inside of their space and stay "small" with my business...for a while. I finally reached a point where the time was right to step out of my safe place and move forward with a mission of my own this year!! 

Something Gained: Space to Grow

Moving into a new space has been one of the main professional highlights of this year. The feeling of gratitude I have for all of my clients, family, and friends who have helped 1212 Bodyworks grow into the business it is today is truly overwhelming! :) Having the physical space that now suits the flow of my business will provide wonderful future growth opportunities.  

Something Lost: Weight (15#)

With the help of my personal trainer, Ryan Bloor, and many dietary changes later, I have lost about 15 pounds this year!! Whew!! After recognizing in August of 2016 that I was not only hiding inside of the Chiropractor's office, but also hiding inside baggy or layered clothing because of my gradual weight gain, I knew I needed to make some major changes. I have officially embraced the fact that I need an accountability partner, and those weekly scheduled workouts really helped me honor my priorities. By building muscle, I was able to burn more fat and detoxify my body. In May of 2017, I received the "Hashimoto's Thyroiditis" diagnosis, and thus began the journey of a strict diet known as the "Autoimmune Protocol."  Meat, veggies, and fruit were the only allowed foods, so for 3 months, that is what I stuck to. I slowly, strategically reintroduced foods to find out which ones were triggers for my symptoms and have adjusted my diet accordingly. I am feeling better overall, but am doing what I can to continue to uncover the root of these Autoimmune issues to fully heal from them. 

Something Gained: Height (1/2 inch!!)

At my annual physical this year, I was SHOCKED when the nurse told me that I was 5 ft, 7 inches!!! I have been 5 ft, 6 1/2 inches for the past 15 years at least. I do remember once being 5' 7" back in college, but somehow lost a 1/2 inch over time. I truly believe that the strength training I have done has helped my posture and spinal stability so much, I actually am standing taller!! The physical and emotional weight that I have lost over this past year have also helped me to stand taller with more confidence.

What were some of your biggest losses and gains, and how did these experiences help you grow? I'd love to hear about the highlights of your year and what you are celebrating as you reflect on the past 12 months! Looking forward to sharing our health journeys in 2018.