It's now May, but I am still thinking about how impactful my 40th birthday has been since March 1st.
In my life, as you may have already heard or read, there have been many deaths and losses that happened much sooner than they genuinely needed to, and maybe you have, too.
I have learned from these experiences that we must understand that our time here is finite.
Understanding the impermanence of our lives can be very scary and paralyzing for some, and believe me, I've been there.
Initially, I felt dread and lots of anxiety about this specific upcoming birthday because of the early age of my mother's passing at 36 years old, but I have been thinking and reflecting quite a bit recently.
I am very grateful for every aspect of my life, and you should be, too. My past influences every bit of who I am, including all the beauty and pain.
Your life is happening FOR you, not TO you! This is an important thing to remember without judgment or self-ridicule.
Do you find yourself pausing to take opportunities to show gratitude for everything in your life?
I understand it may be hard to practice initially, but it's not impossible.
Try this: The next time you're in the restroom or can see yourself in a mirror, take a moment (at least 1 minute), look yourself in the eyes, and think:
Thank you for this body.
Thank you for this breath.
I am so thankful for this beautiful life.
I love you.
It may feel weird and disingenuous at first, but I promise you that if you keep this practice up on your journey, it will get easier.
It can be a tremendously impactful practice as your mindset shifts towards self-compassion and empathy for who you are becoming.
Like I tell many of my fasting clients, your mindset is everything on this weight loss journey with fasting because your lifestyle tool allows you to realize that this process is so much deeper than just an attempt to lose weight. Practicing that awareness regularly can make a tremendous difference, not just on your journey, but has the potential to influence the rest of your life (and maybe many around you as well).
I have carefully crafted my mindset like my permanent and wearable trophy. It allows me to see through the hardships as opportunities for moments of gratitude and not take the blissful moments in life for granted.
My deepest passion is that you understand that you are also JUST AS CAPABLE of achieving the same unique level of loving gratitude for the body you own and the life you lead.
None of us are promised tomorrow; I am sure we all know and understand this. But with all the deaths and losses I’ve experienced, I now know the value of making the most of the time we have in this life. I find purpose in helping others like you uncover this meaningful component on their journeys.
I will passionately continue making a difference in this world, being the change I wish to see in others who need it.
You must know that you deserve to have as many birthdays as possible.
Many folks know they need to improve their health but don’t yet see the urgency that life can be mercilessly short.
If this is you, I want to tell you that time will pass whether we take action or not.
The time you have left in this life is completely in your control. But also remember that your weight loss journey shouldn't be something you rush through or wish to be "done with already."
Please trust me when I tell you your hardships, stressors, and subsequent stress-eating habits can be improved. You aren't stuck and do not need to keep the labels or judgments others have unwittingly placed on you.
I encourage you to trust your body's innate and instinctual ability to thrive on your fasting journey, but you don't have to travel this path alone.
If you haven't yet had a chance to meet with me for a virtual fasting consult but would like to, I have a treat for you.
Again, I wish to help YOU live your longest, healthiest life with fasting as your lifestyle tool, and I am confident with every cell in my (now 40-year-old) body that YOU CAN DO THIS because, as I always say, I believe in YOU, even if you don’t.
Let's get your after,
Vicki
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