Linda Hegedus, Weight Loss and Life Motivator: Our Masterpiece

Linda Hegedus, Weight Loss and Life Motivator: Our Masterpiece: We are a result of re-creating ourselves.  On this personal journey of ours we are learning more about ourselves and enjoying our...

Our Masterpiece

We are a result of re-creating ourselves.  On this personal journey of ours we are learning more about ourselves and enjoying our own company.  Solitude is needed at times to speak to your inner-being and to receive your answers.  Relaxation and rest gives us a re-charge, and a much needed break from the stressors of life.

We are learning to broaden our horizons and the more living we are doing, the more we are energized with the life force within us.  We are re-connected with life and are appreciating each moment that we have been given another day.  Another day to enjoy, to remember, to ponder.

We have focused on ourselves and gave ourselves the time and patience necessary to re-create ourselves from the inside out.  We are in the process of completing our own personal masterpiece, which we've worked on for quite some time and now we're ready for the unveiling.

What a positive place to be.  It's an experience that resulted in Our Masterpiece.

Linda Hegedus, ©

Preparation is Key

When we first began our journey, we were not too sure how we would prepare ourselves for the long-term road ahead; as we take it step by step each day and try to figure out a strategy that will suit our wants and needs.  As the days pass by, we begin to slowly adapt to a new routine and lifestyle that requires focus, mindfulness, and determination. 

Without having this mindset, we will easily fall back into our old ways.  I’ve now learned how and what I must do in order to achieve and maintain the results I’m accustomed to and behold, and the answer is preparation!  Preparation is key for achieving and maintaining my ideal body weight, and fitness status.  It keeps me from straying from the new lifestyle I’ve chosen, and it’s much easier to maintain my weight and fitness goals with this plan.

On Sunday mornings as I prepare for the workweek ahead, I gather my food items I’ll need for the week in order to just “grab and go” into my lunch bag.  Not only is it a no brainer, since each container is labeled with the correct ounces to intake, but also since I’m working a full-time job, and then going straight from work to the gym for at least one hour.  When I arrive home I grab my healthy pre-measured food items, and my water container for the next days’ meal during the day.  It seems to work for me and only takes one hour of prep time on Sunday to be organized for the week ahead.

In order to take care of myself and continue to exercise and eat right, this plan works since it gives me the time I need to work out and devote that one hour to what I committed to do for the remainder of my life.

If you’re working full-time, or part-time, and have other obligations as well during the week, perhaps by preparing your food in advance will be beneficial to devoting the block of time you need in order to remain healthy and fit.   If you are on a tight schedule, perhaps you may want to set aside an extra hour and prepare a few dinners in advance and freeze them so you don’t have to stress about cooking every evening too.  Give it a try and see if this routine helps you have the time you need to exercise and maintain your weight!

Linda Hegedus ©

Comparing the Past to the Present

When you’ve succeeded on what you set forth to do on this interesting and ever-changing journey, I had retrospectively looked back on what I was to what I’ve become and continue to be as I move in a direction of growth and expansion.  Each day and moment of the experience has given me a lot to be thankful and hopeful for as acceptance and closure has come to be, and allowing my new lifestyle to be the only path to be taken for the remainder of my life as I know it today.

In my primary job, I have many comparison charts to provide and submit to each new employee who becomes part of our agency.  The same concept applies in my personal life.  I’ve taken personal inventory and thought about the comparisons of when I was morbidly obese, which were hurtful, harmful, and unhealthy; and have finally become beneficial, soothing, and a healthy way of life, that I now live by.

When I was morbidly obese, and weighed 330 pounds, there were many obstacles to overcome.  It was a painful experience.  After having weight-loss surgery seven years' ago, I not only overcame, but have become a mentor for many people, who are suffering from this debilitating and life-threatening malady. 

I look into their eyes and I see their soul yearning for change, and wanting to become independent and free from pain.  I share my previous life story with them and explain the changes by comparing what I was able to do to what I am able to do today.

I begin by telling them how I felt and how I feel now.  These are the comparisons of the past and the present:

I couldn’t climb stairs and now I walk up to five flights with ease.  I couldn't walk without a cane, and now I walk and power walk as frequently as possible.  I walk 1.5 miles during my lunch break with a walking buddy for 30 minutes.  I  had difficulty breathing and had developed sleep apnea, and now I no longer use a C-PAP machine and my breathing improved significantly.

I had developed psoriasis all over my arms, legs, and scalp.  Now my skin cleared up 95 percent.  I could not sit in a standard-size chair  and now I can sit and fit into any and all chairs.  I also couldn't fit inside a standard-sized bathtub to enjoy a nice warm bath, and now I can enjoy soaking in a bathtub after a strenuous workout at the gym.  There was a lack of energy and stamina, but now I'm energized and work out every day, which consists of cycling every other day for 6 miles in 25 minutes.  Weight train for 45 minutes.  One day arms, the next day legs, every day abdominals and every other day back and chest.  

I had taken medication for cholesterol, and now I take no more medication.   I used to wear orthopedic shoes valued at 300.00, and now I wear fashionable and practical shoes.  I've eaten a high carb, high fat diet and now I eat organic, clean, and from never drinking water to now I intake 74+ oz. of water per day.

These are just a few comparisons that I mention and it gives people enough motivation to begin step by step, day by day, week by week, month by month, a reason, a purpose, and the nudge they need to begin their own personal journey.  I’m blessed to be playing a role in each of their lives.  It also reinforces my own mindset to remain an example for them to follow and keeps me honest as well.  We all have something to offer, and when you realize what gifts you were given, use them to benefit someone else.  Pass the torch to the next person and help them keep the flame burning brightly.

Linda Hegedus ©

It's Time to Explore, Experience, and Enjoy a New Adventure!

As each day passed by, I realized that all I was doing was going to work, coming home to prepare dinner and cleaning up around the house.  If I had any energy left, I would color and read health-related articles before bedtime.  I felt that I’ve forgotten that there was more to life than just resigning to a mundane routine.  The winter months in New England don’t always have wiggle room for enjoying the great outdoors and being physically active on the bike trails or taking a long walk as I have in the Spring, Summer, and Fall.  It was not enough to walk the corridors of my workplace during my 30-minute lunch break.  I needed more motivation and movement.  There’s a quote that states “He who hesitates is lost” it was time to get moving again in a different direction for a different adventure and experience.

Sometimes we keep thinking about what we want to do, but we never put it into action.  The last time I felt like this was when I contemplated about having weight-loss surgery.  Every morning as I ventured out to work, I was driving by the brand-new gym that had just opened.  I received a free pass to try it out from a friend of mine, but didn’t follow through. At the same time there was a Yoga program offered to me free of charge that I could attend on a weekly basis.  I thought to myself, I need to get out there and do this!  I signed up for the weekly Yoga class and also used my free three day pass to the new gym. 

I was always intrigued with Yoga and now I had the chance to add value to my life by participating in this group class.  I enjoyed the session and have attended each class ever since.  I’ve also met some very nice people as a result of taking a step forward. At the same time I joined the gym for the winter months since I don’t have to commit to a contract, and I am able to enjoy the benefits of the facility on a month to month basis.  I already utilized the racquetball courts, had a boxing session with a trainer, used all of the fitness equipment, and free weights as well.  Afterwards I reward my body with a hot steamy jacuzzi, and a hot sauna then I top it off with a cleansing shower. 

I’ve been feeling so much more relaxed and noticed my overall appearance looks much more vibrant and alive!  Some people asked me what I’m doing to look healthy and I indicated by practicing yoga, and working out every day, has helped me in many aspects of my life. I feel a good tired in the evening, and instead of worrying and feeling uptight after a long day at the office, I’m relieved and refreshed.  Yoga allows me to focus on breathing and detoxifying my body and thoughts at the same time.  It keeps me in the present instead of in the past or the future.  I’m learning to focus on the now and on the breath. 

The gym has given me the opportunity to reach out to others who are also working on their weight.  It’s a calling I’ve always wanted to do and that is to help others as I have been helped with this life long journey.  It’s only been three weeks and already I have motivated and inspired a handful of people.  Imagine how many I can reach out to in one year?  I’m glad I’ve decided to change up my routine and get out and reach out.  It’s my nature and my purpose.  I was put on this Earth to make a difference and that’s exactly what I’m going to do!  What do you want to pursue?  What have you been putting off doing that you’re ready to do?  Don’t wait too long, or you’ll miss out on all of the fun!

Linda Hegedus ©

A Piece of the Puzzle

Placing the pieces of our own puzzle can be quite an adventure.  Sometimes we place a piece that does not “ fit” into that space.  When we turn this particular piece, in many different directions, to “fit” into this allotted space,  it just doesn’t“ fit”.  We may attempt to have this piece” fit” at least several times, but it will not go into the place we want it to” fit”.  There are similarities to the shape and size we’ve chosen, but still it will not connect to the other pieces.

Life seems to unfold that way as well.  When we make a personal effort to break the barriers and fit ourselves into a place where we don’t belong, it can be a painful experience.  Hasn’t our obesity taught us that when we didn’t fit into that place, but tried to remain there even though it was not a good “fit” for us?

The health issues we’ve endured by our own hands and ways of thinking?  We were forcing ourselves to be put into a place where we never belonged.    When we found another place, a place of value, the remaining pieces began to “fit” into place, and with ease….there it was all the time, a place without self-resistance.  The transition became smooth, and it felt right within our souls to feel “fit” and at home.  An abundance of comfort came from within, and the truth emerged!

When resistance repeats itself over and over again, then it’s time to get moving and take action!  Perhaps the struggle is part of the process of self-realization.  In order to move to the place of non-resistance, there’s no forcing, but finally falling to a soft place of love, honesty, and compassion.  When there’s a sense of calm within us, the puzzle piece had found its way into the right direction from the inner-compass.  Resistance has taught us pain, doubt, and hopelessness.  When we’ve finally realized after many attempts, to placing a piece where it never belonged, we moved and had taken action to be where it will “fit” it feels right, it feels good, it feels positive.

No pain, no resistance, just joy, comfort, love, hope, trust, faith, courage, finding, resolving, discovering, becoming, growing, living, acknowledging, accepting, teaching, reaching, encouraging, enlightening, inspiring, and it’s a perfect “fit”!

Linda Hegedus, ©

What I learned on the Journey so Far

I've learned so much in such a short period of time........

   

I’ve learned to take baby steps and not to be disappointed if my progress is slow.

I’ve learned that my relationships have changed with those who are the closest to me in my life.

I’ve learned that I can accomplish goals and pursue my dreams.

I’ve learned that my life is what I make of it, and not what others think my life should be.

I’ve learned that not everyone is going to support my success, and I will have to be my own best friend.

I’ve learned that my body will let me know when I’ve had enough to eat or drink.

I’ve learned that being thin doesn’t eliminate life’s challenges I must face.

I’ve learned that comfort foods no longer serve me well, but almost destroyed my life.

I’ve learned to focus on the positive in my life and try to eliminate any negative feelings I may have inside.

I’ve learned that opportunities are plentiful with my new appearance and attitude.  Doors that were once closed have cracked opened for me.

I’ve learned to respect my body and take better care of myself.

I’ve learned that this journey is a life-long  journey.

I’ve learned to trust myself and my food choices.

I’ve learned to say no to trigger foods that others want me in indulge in.

I’ve learned that I have to be forgiving and patient with myself.

I’ve learned to be grateful for the second chance I was given to change my life.

I’ve learned that I don’t need approval from anyone but myself.

I’ve learned I can do so much more physically with the excessive amount of weight I’ve lost.

I’ve learned that life is precious.

I’ve learned to be held accountable for my decisions regarding food.

I’ve learned to be kinder to myself and not beat myself up if I make the wrong food choice that day.

I’ve learned to express my feelings openly.

I’ve learned that fear held me back, and there’s nothing to fear.

I’ve learned that meditation relaxes the mind, body, and spirit.

I’ve learned that I’m a sexual being.

I’ve learned that I made this change for a healthier and happier existence.

I’ve learned that anger weakens my body.

I’ve learned that depression is temporary.

I’ve learned that food is vital for survival, but not an all-consuming factor in my life.

I’ve learned to be tolerant of ignorant people, who don’t understand me.

I’ve learned to give more of myself to others.

I’ve learned to create healthy boundaries for myself.

I’ve learned to adapt to my new lifestyle and accept this as a life-long commitment.

I’ve learned that there’s more to life than existing, but living your life is key.

I’ve learned I’m a much more approachable person now than I was before.

I’ve learned to feel vulnerable and not fear the outcome.

I’ve learned to feel again, and not suppress my feelings.

I’ve learned to walk the walk and talk the talk.

I’ve learned to seize the day for tomorrow may never come.

I’ve learned to cherish people in my life, who’ve been loving, caring, and kind to me.

I’ve learned to be compassionate with others fighting their own personal battles.

I’ve learned that I will continue to learn something new every day as my awareness has become keen with time.

Linda Hegedus, ©

Linda Hegedus, Weight Loss and Life Motivator: The Key

Linda Hegedus, Weight Loss and Life Motivator: The Key: Many times in our lives, the stressors of life can seem unbearable.   We need to do what it takes to maintain a place of peace within our...

Linda Hegedus, Weight Loss and Life Motivator: Setting Boundaries

Linda Hegedus, Weight Loss and Life Motivator: Setting Boundaries:   Boundaries were never in my vocabulary.  The physical boundaries were always present by having my shield covering myself in a false s...

Linda Hegedus, Weight Loss and Life Motivator: When Did You Wake Up?

Linda Hegedus, Weight Loss and Life Motivator: When Did You Wake Up?:     I can recall a time when all that mattered was what I was going to eat that day.  It consumed my mind most of the time just think...

Linda Hegedus, Weight Loss and Life Motivator: A Lot Can Change In A Day!

Linda Hegedus, Weight Loss and Life Motivator: A Lot Can Change In A Day!:   As Esther Phillips sang, “What a Difference a Day Makes” 24 little hours ….Yes one day can make all of the difference!  Did you ever ...

Linda Hegedus, Weight Loss and Life Motivator: Never Give Up!

Linda Hegedus, Weight Loss and Life Motivator: Never Give Up!: I met with a friend of mine, who had weight-loss surgery eight years' ago, and had gained all of their weight back just to become ...

Linda Hegedus, Weight Loss and Life Motivator: Change for the Better, and It Only Gets Better!

Linda Hegedus, Weight Loss and Life Motivator: Change for the Better, and It Only Gets Better!:   The other day I attended a picnic, which had many different food options to choose from, and the majority of food choices were surpri...

Change for the Better, and It Only Gets Better!

The other day I attended a picnic, which had many different food options to choose from, and the majority of food choices were surprisingly healthy ones.  More and more people, who are hosting parties, are offering healthier foods when entertaining since the majority of people are becoming more aware of the environment in which we live in.  GMO foods have been exploited for the negative effects they have on our health; and many people are growing their own food as the summer season has arrived.  People are becoming aware of which seeds to buy and re-producing their own produce by keeping the seeds from their own crops as opposed to buying seeds each season.

Change is all around us with food, and how we’re viewing the value of its content for long-term wellness.  Many people who’ve been afflicted with illness and disease have turned to modifying their diets to a non-hormonal, organic, and plant-based diet as opposed to consuming red meat, pork, or chicken which has been injected with hormones for larger growth and faster production.  I see a slow, but steady change due to this new awareness.  People are educating themselves with the insight to be healthier vital human beings and reaping the benefits of eating organic, non-hormonal lean protein, and plant-based foods.

If we encourage others to learn about their food choices and how they can improve their well-being just by what they’re eating on a daily basis, we can change an entire generation, who’s been raised on foods that were quick and easy to make and eat.  Change is on the horizon, and it’s moving in a positive direction.  Weight loss can be achieved by making these small but impactful changes towards a healthier and productive lifestyle.  As we also incorporate various exercise routines to our daily lives, it’s a winning combination!  Interval training with strength training has given me endurance, flexibility, and a wider range of motion, and I find that if I challenge myself to go an extra mile, or a higher level of intensity, or push my body to the limit, it’s almost euphoric! 

I’m also learning breathing techniques, which keep my cortisol levels in balance, along with a good night’s sleep, and a better frame of mind and outlook on life and the people around me.  The toxic habits I’ve once partaken in have changed dramatically.  It didn’t happen overnight, but as I overcame one of my habits, I began to work on removing the next bad habit, and then the next until I became completely clean and free from any and all toxic negative addictions.  I’m an all or nothing type of person, so I’m quite happy and proud of overcoming all of my bad habits and have replaced them with healthy, positive, productive, and spiritually evolving habits.  I’m a lot stronger and stable more than I’ve ever known and never needed the coping mechanisms I thought I needed. 

All I need is me and that’s enough.  If there are other like-minded people, I could certainly share the wealth with them as well.  Be well my conscience friends, and remember change is not only good for the soul, but it’s essential!

Linda Hegedus ©

Exercise and Healing

Exercise is a great healer to the body.  It oxygenates your blood, while building muscle and burning unwanted fat at the same time.  Each time I exercise, I feel stronger, more alive, focused at work, and relaxed before bedtime.  When I was not exercising as much, my body became tense, my attitude became shorter with others, and I felt a lot more physical pain as a result.

As many of us know, in the beginning of our weight-loss journey, we were not accustomed to exercising since that was one of the major factors that had led us where we were at, and that was being morbidly obese.  Exercise was foreign to many of us and it was not going to be easy to add this new activity into our journey.  We had to introduce or reintroduce this activity slowly into our lives.  Eating healthy foods that are comprised of low calories, but physically beneficial to our well-beings takes a front seat first and foremost on this path, but when exercise is incorporated as well, the results become not only beneficial to our entire well-being, but also something wonderful begins to happen to us.  Our bodies begin to transform and reshape into a firm, toned, and fit appearance, which we can take much pride with as we are able to endure longer workouts as a result of following through every day with an exercise routine.

If you’ve worried about having loose skin, or you’re feeling tired, and not satisfied with your appearance after weight loss, I would highly recommend that immediately after you’re able to begin an exercise routine, begin slowly and begin to challenge yourself each week on increasing the intensity of your workouts.  You will see that your skin will tone up nicely as well as the contours of your body will be in proportion with the rest of your physique.  Beginnings are not always easy, but they are essential for long-term success on this journey.  One day, one week, one month, and one year; it will make all of the difference in your new life ahead.  Eat well, sleep well, and be well.  I feel good most of the time and I attribute it to these factors.  Organic clean eating, and one hour of exercise per day.  I will rest when my body tells me to take it easy, but overall, I feel good, and when people ask me my age and I tell them, they’re surprised. 

Exercise is the key to slow the aging process down, and revitalize, refresh, and rejuvenate your entire being!  Get up and get moving!  You’ll begin to enjoy this activity and look forward to doing more as you progress! 

Linda Hegedus ©