Helping Women Live Longer, Healthier, Happier Lives! |
Plan B by Geralyn Coopersmith, MA, CSCS "If you want to make G-d laugh, tell Him/Her about your plans." When you're a Mom, you learn right away about "Plan B". For example, I planned on giving birth in an hour or two, naturally with no drugs...maybe some candelight and soft music...fast forward -- four days and an emergency c-section under general later -- PLAN B. Then I planned on breastfeeding -- "How fascinating, your son has (I couldn't make this up if I tried!!) a faulty suck pattern", The Lactation Nazi (I mean, Lactation "Specialist") said. I said, "Nurse, bottle, Please!!!" -- PLAN B. I planned to drop the kid off at about 8-weeks old at some mythical germ-free daycare that is open from 4:30 AM to 8 PM to meet my work schedule. That is so extraordinary that I feel happy and guilt -free dropping my helpless newborn off each day. Hmmm...okay, so maybe I'll work from home for a few years...PLAN B. And so it goes...once you have a kid, basically every moment of your life is PLAN B, which makes it REALLY difficult (and sometimes seemingly impossible) to stay on track with exercise and good nutrition. The only way around it is to be VERY flexible in your approach to working out and eating right. That usually means having a couple of options up your sleeve for the inevitable curve ball that's coming your way that day. Always try to have a back-up plan so you don't get frustrated that you're not in control of the situation (you're not, I'm not...we just have to accept it -- that's life). Can't get to the gym? Can you go for a walk...with or without a stroller? Can you pop in a workout DVD? Can you multi-task your errands with a workout by walking from place to place. Could you get on the treadmill for 30 minutes once the kids are in bed? Can you move an exercise bike in the living room and ride while the family's watching the boob tube? Can't go home to make that perfect salad of poached salmon with organic mixed field greens? Gee -- what a surprise? Ok, well, what is there at McDonald's that not bad for you? Salads? Yogurt? Grilled chicken sandwich minus the mayo? The more creative you are in coming up with choices the easier it is to stay on track and the less frustrated you will feel when things don't go "as planned". 'Cause life being what it is...they probably won't ;-). Disclaimer: The information contained in this
newsletter is not intended as a substitute for medical care. Not all exercises
are appropriate for all individuals. Please consult with your doctor before
beginning any exercise program. |
