My last phase update was in May.
This phase extended far beyond beyond my expectations, in more ways than I can list. I prayed to grow spiritually and produce His fruits. He provided many opportunities to go to my knees and always reminded me that this is more of a spiritual journey than a physical one.
Here’s the quick run down of this phase.
- weight loss
- lost training partner due to injury (Rose)
- lost 2 toe nails
- injured ankle that took 2 months to heal
- gained a training partner and friend–sister in Christ
- weight gain
- pregnancy
- more weight gain
- miscarriage
- prayer & fasting
- spiritual healing
- detox
- weight loss
- complete food overhaul
- major lifestyle changes
- restored health and relief from long-time ailments (partially due to my new lifestyle change*)
- lost training partner due to injury
- inspired my Mom to get moving. She participated in the 5k on my race day.
- ran a 1/2 marathon (barefoot)
Here’s a more detailed look at my accomplishments that the Good Lord has allowed.
Plan of Action:
- put the focus on the journey (spiritual and physical fitness) not the end result (weight loss).
- ditched the all or nothing attitude
- took it one week at a time. focused on weekly goals so that I did not become discouraged.
Goals:
- 30 min exercise
3x2x week in addition to my running program.- passed on the races and donated the entrance fees to worthy causes.
- lost a total of 20lbs including all my gains and losses but I’m not anywhere near my goal weight. I still have 20lbs to go.
- lost inches.
Diet:
- *After prayer and discernment, I made a major overhaul in my (and my family’s) diet. I’ve adopted a no gluten, sugar, grains, legumes and dairy diet. I eat only meat, fish, fowl, vegetables, fruits, roots, tubers (with modifications, of course).
- ate small meals throughout they day – before I got into hunger mode.
- only water. 10-14+ glasses a day. – O.k., I did add the occasional coconut milk to the list.
In addition to the above, each day of sacrifice was dedicated to a specific intention – many of which were provided by fellow bloggers.
I’m still re-grouping at this time and I’m not sure where I’ll go from here. I pray to remain focused on my ultimate goal, to glorify Him!
~~~
Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not rely on your own insight.
In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.
Be not wise in your own eyes; fear the LORD, and turn away from evil.
It will be healing to your flesh and refreshment to your bones.
~Proverbs 3:5-8
melody says
My heart and mind are full of so many things after reading this post… where do I start? I think it is best to let my thoughts turn into prayers… of gratitude, joy… and listening. “Where is Lena going Lord? May I go, too?” I’m not being funny… we have walked a little way together and I look to my big sister in Christ, who is a little younger than I but not in most ways. I don’t think I will ever run a marathon– he did not build my body for that–but that’s not what I mean.
God bless you, Lena… don’t get tired of this constant discernment. It is what He asks of us. The burden of the fatigue is just the stripping down that we need. And please keep posting about it… He is using you to lead others.