Maria Jenkins: Starting My Healthy Journey

Maria Jenkins is a Resources Management Specialist at the Woodruff Health Sciences Center Library and a member of the LITS Wellness Committee.

Earlier this year I signed up with a weight loss program because I was desperate. I had to do something after struggling to put on yet another pair of jeans. Ugh! Once I got my box full of goodies for the program (protein powder, portion size food containers and workouts) I was hyped. However, figuring out the portion control containers was confusing and frustrating. The only good thing I learn from the program is that I was eating way too much food.

I continued searching for a way to lose weight and after researching many diets I started a different set of nutrition programs. I started drinking more water and eating more salads. I didn’t want to get bored, so I researched recipes for different salad recipes. I was amazed at the number of options; I could eat a different salad every day of the week.  I didn’t, but it was great to see that I had so many options.

Click here for one of my favorite recipes.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

It took me years to figure out what would work for me. It wasn’t easy. I had to break up with Chick-fil-A for a while (though we still see each other occasionally). I also had to “get my mind right” and motivate myself. I created a Pinterest page with tons of motivational quotes, and pictures related to my goals. I had to be my own cheerleader.

 

Recently, I rejoined Blomeyer Health Fitness Center in the 1525 building. Being more active will help with me achieve my goals. My favorite classes so far are Zumba on Fridays at 12:20, Butts N’ Guts on Wednesdays at 11:45 a.m., and Express Core on Mondays at 12:30 p.m. Eventually, I will take advantage of the personal training sessions and group challenges.

To join with no money down, invite Blomeyer to your next office meeting and learn how to create a healthier work environment.

Between the different set of nutrition programs and working out occasionally, I began to see positive results in about six weeks. After finding ways to eat healthier and exercise more frequently that were sustainable for me, not only did I begin to meet my weight loss goals, but I also saw improvement in the way I viewed food. Also, I am no longer sluggish, which I attribute to making healthier choices and choosing food that gives me energy to fuel my body.

All of this is to say that if the first program you try doesn’t work for you to help you meet your wellness goals, do your research and find a program that works for you. Keep trying new things until you find what works and know that there are plenty of resources at Emory to help you meet your goals. Click around the LITS Wellness Committee website to explore your options!

The information provided in this blog post reflects one person’s personal story of wellness. The views and opinions in this article are those of the authors and are not necessarily reflective of all LITS Wellness Committee members. This content is also not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

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