As I'm writing this, it's 12:45 Eastern time. A few minutes ago, feeling hunger pangs, I opened the kitchen cabinet in search of food and immediately spotted a container of Pringles salt and vinegar potato chips. I saw, I opened, and I ate--at least 10 of them. Quickly. Standing by the open cabinet. That was my lunch. High fat, low fiber, and even lower satisfaction. I should mention that I'm visiting family members (none of whom was at home or I would have been too embarrassed to engage in my mini binge.) And it's not that there were no healthy choices available. Sardines in the cabinet right next to the Pringles. Mixed greens and baby carrots in the frig. I could have taken five minutes to make a yummy salad. Then I wouldn't have to listen to the anguished screams of my arteries--and my conscience.
What's most embarrassing is that I'm a strong advocate of healthy eating. My friend Nancy Fernandez-Mills (check out her blog EatBreatheThrive) and I teach a self-care program for women over 50 called Creative Vitality. It's built on four key practices: nutrition, centering, physical activity, and creativity. Nancy and I believe that it's important to make time every day for each of these practices. Everything we want to accomplish at this stage of our lives depends on taking good care of ourselves physically, mentally, and spiritually. Good nutrition is clearly essential for vital and vibrant living. Today I let myself down by doing something I knew was not in my best interest. For the rest of the day, I will commit to paying attention to what I need nutritionally. I'll drink more water and load up with veggies (in their natural state!) I'll forgive myself and move on.
What is your plan for taking good care of yourself today?
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