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If you want to focus on feeling better in your body but you don’t want to focus on weight loss...where should you start? This can be a tricky question, especially if you have been a dieter in the past. Since you won’t be tracking calories, macros or following rigid “health rules” it is easy to feel like you are adrift.  image via The Wellfull The reality is that you don’t need to follow those old routines in order to improve your health and well being! There are lots of different metrics when it comes to improving your relationship with yourself, your body, food, exercise and yes- even your definition of health.
The following simple steps are a great place to start! I’ve also included resources below to help you continue your journey. ...Remember- this is a process that will have many layers and can take time. Take a deep breath, recognize yourself for getting started and enjoy the ride! Before we begin...What is Diet Culture? Diet Culture affirms the belief that smaller is better, you need to look a certain way to be healthy or fit, and that large bodies can’t be healthy or acceptable. Diet Culture also encourages the idea that dieting/deprivation/restriction/food rules is a valid way to lose weight. (Want to dig into this subject more? Check out my “Diet Data” page here)
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Season's Greetings |
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Weeks Along: 14 weeks pregnant as of May 23, 2019
Total Weight Gain: I'm not weighing myself! I didn't know my weight before I got pregnant and and working with a midwife who is on board with my approach. Weight gain can be stressful for those who've had eating disorders and body image issues in the past. My goal is to feel great, take care of myself and baby and stress as little as possible.
Mood: I have been feeling slightly better the last two weeks. Weeks 6-12 were rough to be honest. My morning sickness has been all day and it feels like I'm carsick 24/7. Early on I rested a lot and took regular naps in the afternoon to keep my energy up. I also made sure to eat crackers when I first woke-up and that seemed to help. Other nausea helpers have been: ginger tea, acupressure sea-bands, acupuncture and B6 hard candies called Preggo Pops.
Maternity clothes? I have one pair of maternity jeans that I got through StichFix. StichFix is an online personal stylist service & since most of my clothes are athleisure I figured I could use a boost in the style department. I also bought a few pairs of leggings in a size up and I've had to buy new bras already! Bring on the baby gains I say.
Sleep: I have been sleeping a lot! I go to bed between 9:30-10pm and wake-up at 8:30am. I also take a nap between 3-4pm pretty much every work day. Viva la sleep I say!
Workouts: I am hoping that I'm able to exercise more soon. Right now I'm averaging 2-3 workouts a week which is down from my pre-pregnancy average. I am staying positive though- I had a high level of fitness before I was pregnant and I know that my energy and stamina will return soon! I think it's important to take it easy and trust your body during pregnancy so I'm taking my own advice.
Diet & Nutrition: I haven't been as hungry lately. I started integrating more protein last week and my energy has been improving so my plan is to eat more frequently and aim for 15-25g protein per meal. I'm not counting macros or tracking my food but at this point I can intuitively know if I'm meeting my nutritional goals.
Best moment this week: Looking forward to hosting a fitness event with Athleta this weekend. If you want to join grab your ticket here!
Miss anything? The energy to exercise!
Food cravings: Fruit- oranges, raspberries, blueberries and dates.
Anything making you queasy or sick? I have experienced a TON of food aversions. Anything with a strong smell (garlic, onions, fish, etc.) has me saying, NO THANK YOU! I didn't want any vegetables for about 6 weeks and have been subsisting on carbs: sourdough bread, fruit and pasta.
Gender: We are not finding out- looking forward to our surprise in November.
Labor signs: Not yet!
Symptoms: Tired, energy is returning and I'm able to eat healthier foods finally. Yay!
Total Weight Gain: I'm not weighing myself! I didn't know my weight before I got pregnant and and working with a midwife who is on board with my approach. Weight gain can be stressful for those who've had eating disorders and body image issues in the past. My goal is to feel great, take care of myself and baby and stress as little as possible.
Mood: I have been feeling slightly better the last two weeks. Weeks 6-12 were rough to be honest. My morning sickness has been all day and it feels like I'm carsick 24/7. Early on I rested a lot and took regular naps in the afternoon to keep my energy up. I also made sure to eat crackers when I first woke-up and that seemed to help. Other nausea helpers have been: ginger tea, acupressure sea-bands, acupuncture and B6 hard candies called Preggo Pops.
Maternity clothes? I have one pair of maternity jeans that I got through StichFix. StichFix is an online personal stylist service & since most of my clothes are athleisure I figured I could use a boost in the style department. I also bought a few pairs of leggings in a size up and I've had to buy new bras already! Bring on the baby gains I say.
Sleep: I have been sleeping a lot! I go to bed between 9:30-10pm and wake-up at 8:30am. I also take a nap between 3-4pm pretty much every work day. Viva la sleep I say!
Workouts: I am hoping that I'm able to exercise more soon. Right now I'm averaging 2-3 workouts a week which is down from my pre-pregnancy average. I am staying positive though- I had a high level of fitness before I was pregnant and I know that my energy and stamina will return soon! I think it's important to take it easy and trust your body during pregnancy so I'm taking my own advice.
Diet & Nutrition: I haven't been as hungry lately. I started integrating more protein last week and my energy has been improving so my plan is to eat more frequently and aim for 15-25g protein per meal. I'm not counting macros or tracking my food but at this point I can intuitively know if I'm meeting my nutritional goals.
Best moment this week: Looking forward to hosting a fitness event with Athleta this weekend. If you want to join grab your ticket here!
Miss anything? The energy to exercise!
Food cravings: Fruit- oranges, raspberries, blueberries and dates.
Anything making you queasy or sick? I have experienced a TON of food aversions. Anything with a strong smell (garlic, onions, fish, etc.) has me saying, NO THANK YOU! I didn't want any vegetables for about 6 weeks and have been subsisting on carbs: sourdough bread, fruit and pasta.
Gender: We are not finding out- looking forward to our surprise in November.
Labor signs: Not yet!
Symptoms: Tired, energy is returning and I'm able to eat healthier foods finally. Yay!
Mondays can be...rough. Whether you aren't that excited about returning to work or your feeling stress about all your responsibilities- it's normal but that doesn't make it any less painful to deal with.
One way to help you alleviate stress is to move! Movement pumps up your endorphins, and even acts as 'meditation in motion'. This can be a hard mindset shift when you've viewed exercise as punishment. One way to change this is to begin to see it as a tool to help you feel better and take care of your physical and mental health.
I know this shift won't happen overnight, but I wanted to share a strength training circuit that takes 30 minutes in case you need an idea for this week!
One way to help you alleviate stress is to move! Movement pumps up your endorphins, and even acts as 'meditation in motion'. This can be a hard mindset shift when you've viewed exercise as punishment. One way to change this is to begin to see it as a tool to help you feel better and take care of your physical and mental health.
I know this shift won't happen overnight, but I wanted to share a strength training circuit that takes 30 minutes in case you need an idea for this week!
 | Lily Fontas, Ed.M holds a master’s degree from Boston University and is a certified personal trainer and health coach. Her goal is to help others reach their health and wellness goals without blame, shame or dieting. She works with clients globally as a virtual coach and trains clients in-person in Oakland, CA. Learn More About Coaching |
🍑Glutes🍑...why are they important? Is it all about looks or is there something more to think about?
Everyone can grow larger, stronger glutes, no matter where you start from. Despite recent social media trends, your backside isn't just ornamental. Your glutes are also incredibly important to your health and strength. The glutes are made up of three groups: the minimus, maximus & medius. These muscles are incredibly strong and powerful- but only if you know how to activate them properly. Most people don't, so let's dive into what you can do to get started.
Whether you're a serious athlete or work an office job with lots of sitting- you need to have strong glutes.
They help you...
Everyone can grow larger, stronger glutes, no matter where you start from. Despite recent social media trends, your backside isn't just ornamental. Your glutes are also incredibly important to your health and strength. The glutes are made up of three groups: the minimus, maximus & medius. These muscles are incredibly strong and powerful- but only if you know how to activate them properly. Most people don't, so let's dive into what you can do to get started.
Whether you're a serious athlete or work an office job with lots of sitting- you need to have strong glutes.
They help you...
- have more balanced posture
- protect your knees and legs from injury
- increase your explosive power (for when you're hiking, lifting or commuting daily up the stairs)
- take the pressure off your low back & heal back pain
Try this workout and let me know how it goes. Tag me on instagram @lilybirdlifts or share in our free Never Diet Again Facebook Group!
 | Lily Fontas, Ed.M holds a master’s degree from Boston University and is a certified personal trainer and health coach. Her goal is to help others reach their health and wellness goals without blame, shame or dieting. She works with clients globally as a virtual coach and trains clients in-person in Oakland, CA. Learn More About Coaching |
Did you know that 56% of women say they are dissatisfied with their overall appearance and 89% of women want to lose weight? These thoughts can become increasingly intense when the weather turns warm and summer is around the corner. The key to easing your negative thoughts is not weight loss. 95-97% of intentional weight loss diets fail, so let's put that to the side. We aren't going down that path!
Instead try these 6 Steps to Body Confidence now...
no restriction, negativity or deprivation necessary.
Instead try these 6 Steps to Body Confidence now...
no restriction, negativity or deprivation necessary.
Face Your Body:
When you're feeling insecure it's easy to "turn off" from looking at your body. You avoid your reflection at all costs, never look down or ban full length mirrors. This is a problem because while we are not only our bodies they are still important. If you hate your physical self you won't be able to fully enjoy life so let's get to work. In order to begin the process of accepting yourself you need to start looking at your physical self. You can start by dressing in a favorite outfit or you can even go nude. Sound scary? Take a breath...This will get easier with practice. It's common for the first time to be rough. If you feel negative emotions come up write them down or say them out loud. Be compassionate with yourself. Add a self-care routine to your mirror gazing, play some favorite music, put on some luxurious body lotion. Make this a daily activity- the more familiar you are with your body the easier it will be to begin your journey to acceptance.
Purge Old Clothes:
Many clients feel incredible amounts of stress when it comes to trying on old clothes. This is especially prevalent during the summer season when people tend to show more skin. Instead of trying on a bunch of old items give yourself permission to buy clothes that work for you now. Your body is the gold standard- your happiness and well-being are worth much more than that old pair of jean shorts! If your budget is smaller check-out Amazon.com, Poshmark, a clothing swap with others or a local thrift or consignment store. Pick clothes that make you feel good in your skin today and donate the clothes that no longer serve you.
Unsubscribe from Diet Culture:
Whether it's other people on social media, a women's magazine or a friend's constant diet talk- now is the time to say no more. If you notice that you start criticizing yourself after looking at a piece of media or talking to another person take heed. In order to accept yourself you need to start setting boundaries. It's not okay to make yourself feel bad for who you are. Period! It doesn't matter if you've made mistakes, slipped up or let yourself down in the past. Today you are sticking up for you and that means cutting out negative influences that enforce a rigid standard or beauty or worthiness.
Check Your Feelings:
Do you often say, "I feel fat"? Part of diet culture is teaching us that fat = bad. Everyone- regardless of their body size or health deserves to love and respect themselves. Body positivity has no weight limits and if you have a problem with other people liking themselves that says more about you than them. Instead of saying "I feel fat" dig deeper and ask yourself what's really going on? Try to think about what set off your feelings and begin to de-program yourself from thinking fat = bad.
Ban Negative Self-Talk:
If you wouldn't say it to your best friend, why are you saying it to yourself? When you start getting down on yourself picture someone you love in front of you. It can be your friend, mom, child. Take a moment to really visualize this person and all the things you love about them. Now- think about your negative comment. Would you want the person you love to hear this about themselves? Usually the answer is no! It is also helpful to write down the negative things you say about yourself. Doing this type of exercise helps take the sting out of our self-criticisms. When you hear a negative comment- "You failed again! I can't believe you're such a loser."- visualize a door slamming on that voice. You cannot hate yourself healthy or happy.
When you're feeling insecure it's easy to "turn off" from looking at your body. You avoid your reflection at all costs, never look down or ban full length mirrors. This is a problem because while we are not only our bodies they are still important. If you hate your physical self you won't be able to fully enjoy life so let's get to work. In order to begin the process of accepting yourself you need to start looking at your physical self. You can start by dressing in a favorite outfit or you can even go nude. Sound scary? Take a breath...This will get easier with practice. It's common for the first time to be rough. If you feel negative emotions come up write them down or say them out loud. Be compassionate with yourself. Add a self-care routine to your mirror gazing, play some favorite music, put on some luxurious body lotion. Make this a daily activity- the more familiar you are with your body the easier it will be to begin your journey to acceptance.
Purge Old Clothes:
Many clients feel incredible amounts of stress when it comes to trying on old clothes. This is especially prevalent during the summer season when people tend to show more skin. Instead of trying on a bunch of old items give yourself permission to buy clothes that work for you now. Your body is the gold standard- your happiness and well-being are worth much more than that old pair of jean shorts! If your budget is smaller check-out Amazon.com, Poshmark, a clothing swap with others or a local thrift or consignment store. Pick clothes that make you feel good in your skin today and donate the clothes that no longer serve you.
Unsubscribe from Diet Culture:
Whether it's other people on social media, a women's magazine or a friend's constant diet talk- now is the time to say no more. If you notice that you start criticizing yourself after looking at a piece of media or talking to another person take heed. In order to accept yourself you need to start setting boundaries. It's not okay to make yourself feel bad for who you are. Period! It doesn't matter if you've made mistakes, slipped up or let yourself down in the past. Today you are sticking up for you and that means cutting out negative influences that enforce a rigid standard or beauty or worthiness.
Check Your Feelings:
Do you often say, "I feel fat"? Part of diet culture is teaching us that fat = bad. Everyone- regardless of their body size or health deserves to love and respect themselves. Body positivity has no weight limits and if you have a problem with other people liking themselves that says more about you than them. Instead of saying "I feel fat" dig deeper and ask yourself what's really going on? Try to think about what set off your feelings and begin to de-program yourself from thinking fat = bad.
Ban Negative Self-Talk:
If you wouldn't say it to your best friend, why are you saying it to yourself? When you start getting down on yourself picture someone you love in front of you. It can be your friend, mom, child. Take a moment to really visualize this person and all the things you love about them. Now- think about your negative comment. Would you want the person you love to hear this about themselves? Usually the answer is no! It is also helpful to write down the negative things you say about yourself. Doing this type of exercise helps take the sting out of our self-criticisms. When you hear a negative comment- "You failed again! I can't believe you're such a loser."- visualize a door slamming on that voice. You cannot hate yourself healthy or happy.
 | Lily Fontas, Ed.M holds a master’s degree from Boston University and is a certified personal trainer and health coach. Her goal is to help others reach their health and wellness goals without blame, shame or dieting. She works with clients globally as a virtual coach and trains clients in-person in Oakland, CA. Learn More About Coaching |
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About the Author
Lily lives in the Bay Area of California with her husband. She loves to lift heavy, watch vintage movies and cheer on her fellow warrior queens!
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