Growing up, it was a compliment to be a curvy woman. Coming of age, I quickly learned that to be a 'brick house' was the business. With this mentality, it easy to ignore your growing BMI (Body Mass Index) and health warnings. I have heard others state that those health charts did not apply to black women because we are naturally bigger girls. Comedian Monique had a stand-up centered around applauding the plus-sized sister.
I have since learned that this is just not the truth. There comes a point in life when you have to face that fact that you are over weight, the fact that you cannot go up a flight of stairs without becoming out of breath. You have to look in the mirror and honestly say to yourself, "That ain't baby fat, that's fat, baby."
The truth hurts.
Like truth, exercise hurts. Reread that sentence and let it settle in and then – GET OVER IT! Anytime you push yourself beyond your comfort zone, it hurts. By hurt, I mean muscle discomfort. If you have joint issues or back issues, see your doctor. Whenever you begin an exercise regimen, see your doctor first. Please know this: when you begin, it will hurt.
When I started to jog, it was quite a task for me. The first five minutes was painful. I pushed through the initial hurt. I began to experience the release of endorphins. These chemicals are released from the brain to reduce the feeling of pain and increase mood. I started to experience a euphoria described as a 'runner's high'. Source: WebMD The body is well-equipped to deal with pain. Don't let it stop you from becoming a better you.
I faced the painful truth that I was no longer 'curvy' or 'thick'. I was fat. lol This enabled me to think clear-headed about my choices. I was able to go to the doctor and get a health assessment. I read books on nutrition. I stopped buying junk food. I am eating better and exercising. It all began with the truth, exercising and eating right, and getting through the pain of it all.
There is a good feeling on the other side. I feel great after a workout or run. I understand that the initial discomfort will dissipate and on the other end is a feeling of satisfaction. I have not reached my goal weight, yet. When I look in the mirror now, what I see is progress. That is enough to keep me going.