The Beginning...

The timing of this 'Personal Project' for my PM 562 class was very apropos in terms of helping me really follow through on making some healthy changes that I'd been meaning to make... at a time in my life when change is the only option...

The goal of my personal project will be to lose 15 pounds in the next 16 weeks... or by the first week of May 2011.  The reason I chose to lose weight was that I wanted to incorporate/enfold other healthy habits into my goal, including eating habits and physical activity.  Therefore, my goal includes the following:

Nutrition/Eating habits:
1) eat less junk food & carbohydrates (i.e. rice, pasta, cookies, cakes, etc.)
2) eat more healthier foods, including fruits, vegetables, and tofu
3) decrease consumption of sugar-filled coffee drinks
4) decrease food consumption in general; stop eating when full

Physical Activity:
1) increase my overall strength and endurance
2) get in shape; tone my body; increase my muscle mass; decrease my fat mass

In order to achieve my goals, I plan on making small changes here and there, so as to make the transition easier and longer-lasting.  I plan to:

1) cut all meals in half or thirds prior to eating, and only eat one portion at a time to ensure I stop when I am full (otherwise I just eat everything without noticing whether I am full or not)
2) limit my intake of carbohydrates, sweets, and junk food while still allowing a small amount occasionally to decrease the chances of binge eating or non-compliance
3) make sure I eat at least one serving of fruits/vegetables per meal
4) only drink half my coffee, and reserve for days when I really need it
5) take the stairs throughout my workday at the hospital; avoid using the elevator when possible
6) exercise 4-5 times a week, at least 30 minutes each time (i.e. walk dogs, exercise videos, etc); preferably immediately upon getting home so that I avoid getting too lazy

My progress thus far... so far, I have begun to decrease my food consumption by cutting my meal during lunch and dinner. Although, I must admit its a challenge, especially when I have rough days, to not resort to sweets, coffee, and other comfort foods to help me feel better.  I have also begun doing a few of the P90X exercise videos...although I am clearly far from being in shape as my body is extremely sore and in pain from the few workouts so far....

I forgot to weigh myself before starting my project... so my starting weight, as of 1/19/2011, is 1*4.4 lbs.