Independence Day

I'm declaring my independence from fat. This has still been a crazy week, but I'm doing so much better with my eating and exercise. Walking, dancing, and tennis are my calorie burners of choice right now, but I'm sure I'll mix it up a lot more to keep it interesting. Dancing was the perfect activity on Tuesday when I had a migraine...the music helped me to not think about the pain, and once I got moving it helped to loosen up those tight muscles.

This migraine also proved two things to me: first of all, I really can work through the pain. Now, I know sometimes you still need a day of rest when the pain level is excruciating. But...I always used these headaches as an excuse as to why I couldn't work out, even on the days that they weren't that bad. Then I would feel sorry for myself and fill up on chocolate or fast food. I'm sure that's part of the reason I got so out of shape. By now you know how I feel about excuses...no more!!!

My second discovery concerns magnesium. A friend of mine who also suffers from migraines told me a deficiency in this is linked to migraines, along with other joint and muscle problems. A few weeks ago I started taking 250 mg of magnesium oxide daily in addition to my regular vitamin, which does not have enough this element in it. I have not had a migraine since starting the supplement...but I ran out and missed taking it for 5 days. Lo and behold, I got the first migraine that I've had in almost 2 months. As soon as I started taking it again, the headache went away and hasn't been back. I've learned my lesson - I will make sure I never run out again.

On this Fourth of July weekend, remind yourself that you also are declaring your independence from fat. Celebrate the freedom to dream, dance, and be who you want to be. With God, there is nothing that is impossible. Also make sure you say a prayer for all of our soldiers, past and present, who fought and still fight to keep our wonderful country safe and free. Happy Independence Day to all of you!