Hey there, fabulous friends! It’s Lavanda Michelle, and I’m back with my Week 8 health journey update. I am absolutely buzzing with excitement to share the latest highlights and achievements with you all! Your constant support has been the wind beneath my wings, and I’m so grateful for every cheer and kind word along the way!
Reflecting on My Journey
Wow, what a ride it’s been since I kicked off this adventure on June 1, 2024! I’m thrilled to share that I’ve already shed 40 pounds, and let me tell you, it feels amazing! But this journey is about so much more than just weight loss. I’ve discovered a newfound energy that makes every day feel like a fresh, exciting start. It’s all about embracing positivity, staying committed, and watching the magic happen!
I’ve already shed 40 pounds.💪
Tracking Physical Activity
This week, I’ve been on fire with my step count! I had so much energy, and I made sure to put it to good use. Check out my steps for Week 8—I’ve been a walking powerhouse!
- Day 50 (July 20): 12,093 steps
- Day 51 (July 21): 27,364 steps
- Day 52 (July 22): 30,791 steps
- Day 53 (July 23): 27,402 steps
- Day 54 (July 24): 22,797 steps
- Day 55 (July 25): 33,185 steps
- Day 56 (July 26): 27,197 steps
Total Steps for the Week: 181,829 steps
Average Daily Steps: 25,976 steps
Walking with my girls—Zyan, Zoey, and Zaya—and our adorable pup Zeus has been an absolute blast! We’ve been exploring the best of Raleigh’s walking trails, and I’m excited to share some of our favorites:
- Umstead State Park: We loved the winding trails, especially the Company Mill and Sycamore Trails.
- Neuse River Greenway Trail: This 27.5-mile stretch along the river is breathtaking—perfect for long, peaceful walks.
- Shelley Lake Park: The 2-mile loop around the lake is full of beautiful sights and sounds.
- Lake Johnson Park: Whether on the 3.5-mile paved greenway or the unpaved woodland trails, this park is a true gem.
Beyond the Scale Achievements
While the scale is a great way to track progress, the little victories are just as exciting! This week, I’ve seen some amazing changes in my overall well-being. I haven’t needed my rescue inhaler at all, which is a huge boost for my respiratory health. It feels wonderful to breathe more easily and freely. My sleep has also gotten a lot better, leaving me feeling refreshed and ready to take on each day with a spring in my step. And the cherry on top? My clothes are starting to fit more comfortably! It’s such a joy to put on clothes that used to be snug and now feel just right.
But wait, there’s more! My mind feels sharper and my mood is brighter—no more foggy days, just clear skies and happy vibes! It’s amazing how improving physical health can lift your mental well-being. When you feel good physically, it creates a positive ripple effect, filling you with more energy and positivity.
Embracing Healthy Habits
Intermittent fasting remains a cornerstone of my daily routine, and it’s working wonders for me! I stick to a 16-hour fasting window, and the clarity and focus it brings are unmatched. Managing my eating within the 8-hour window has never been easier, and I feel energized and ready to conquer the day!
My mornings are all about positivity—starting with daily affirmations that boost my spirits and set the tone for a joyful, productive day. Journaling has become my go-to for reflection, helping me stay grounded, motivated, and in touch with my progress.
Daily Affirmations and Journaling
Along with my physical habits, I’ve kept up with my daily affirmations and journaling. Kicking off each day with positive affirmations sets a cheerful and proactive tone, helping me stay focused and upbeat about my goals. Journaling has become a joyful part of my routine, allowing me to reflect on my thoughts, challenges, and victories, giving me clarity and a sense of accomplishment. This mix keeps me motivated and excited for what’s ahead!
Affirmations:
- 🌟 Positive Mindset: “I am committed to my health and well-being” sets a positive tone.
- 💖 Self-Love: “I love and respect my body” reminds me to treat myself with kindness.
- 🎯 Goal Focus: “Every day, I am moving closer to my ideal weight” keeps my eyes on the prize.
- 💪 Confidence Boost: “I am capable of reaching my weight loss goals” reinforces my belief in myself.
- 🥦 Healthy Choices: “I choose nourishing foods that support my goals” guides my meal choices.
- 🍽️ Control: “I am in control of my eating habits” empowers me to make mindful decisions.
- 🔒 Commitment: “I am dedicated to achieving a healthy body weight” reinforces my long-term commitment.
- 🏋️♀️ Strength Building: “My body is becoming stronger and healthier with every positive choice I make” motivates me to stay active.
- 🌸 Ease and Grace: “I release excess weight with ease and grace” helps me let go of perfectionism.
These affirmations are more than just words—they’re my daily boosts of positivity, guiding me toward a healthier lifestyle. Whether I’m making mindful food choices, enjoying a brisk walk, or simply taking a moment to celebrate my progress, affirmations keep me grounded and inspired every step of the way.
The Power of Community
This week, I unlocked a bunch of cool badges on Pacer, including the 21-day badge and maintained my Emerald League badge! These little victories are a big reminder of how far I’ve come and the determination I’m putting into this journey.
Motivation!
I’m still crushing my July Challenge on the Pacer app. I hit my 10,000-step goal every day and often went above and beyond. Feel free to join me on Pacer at Pacer Link. We’ve been out and about so much this week, and Tropical Smoothie Cafe has become a bit of a second home! My go-to pick-me-up is the Peanut Paradise smoothie—no sugar, plus added pea protein and probiotics. And their Chipotle Chicken Club? I’m obsessed! I skip the bacon and double up on the chicken—perfection!
Looking Ahead
As Week 9 approaches, I’m filled with excitement for what’s next. This journey has been an incredible teacher, showing me the power of resilience, commitment, and the amazing community we’ve built together. I’m beyond grateful and can’t wait to see what the next week brings!
Thank you for being part of this incredible journey with me. Your love and support mean the world, and I’m so excited to keep celebrating every win, big and small, with all of you!
Let’s keep this momentum going—sharing is caring!
Join ME on Social Media:
What are your thoughts about the Health Journey: Week 8 Update. Remember, sharing is caring! Let’s encourage each other every step of the way. Together, we can achieve amazing things. 🌟
Until next time, shine amongst the stars!
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Disclaimer:
This is my personal health journey. If you want to start your own health journey or exercise routine, please consult a doctor.
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Your energy and positivity are contagious—keep up the amazing work!
Wow 40 pounds lost already, thats incredible, you must be really proud of your achievements so far and also 25K steps per day – thats really fantastic!! Very inspiring
Laura Side Street x
I just downloaded the pacer app, step one done lol…I can’t wait to get started. Now that the weather is getting better, I have no excuse. I can’t wait!!!
Your dedication and transparency throughout your health journey are truly inspiring. It’s not just about the progress you’ve made but the resilience you’ve shown each week.
Wow…. you are really rocking this health journey for sure. I am loving the results too! I love that you are hitting some cool parks with long traikls and such to get in those stesp too. I ahve got to get to walking!