Heart Choices: The Discipline of Healthy Living -->

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The Discipline of Healthy Living



Discipline is a word many people dislike.  It usually brings to mind doing things that aren't pleasant but need to be done.

Think about children.  Discipline is often required in order to teach them.  They might listen and obey but not because they want to. They tend to comply because they fear the consequences if they don't.

In our preschool classroom, if a child is misbehaving we may ask the child "do you want to lose your smile?" or "do I need to write a note home to mommy?".  The goal is to correct the behavior so they will learn how to behave properly in school.

Hopefully with maturity a person will value doing what's right.  Instead of fearing consequences, he or she will recognize the value of doing good.

So what does that have to do with a healthy lifestyle?

Disciplining ourselves to eat healthy food and to exercise can seem unpleasant at first.  After all, there's pleasure in eating sweets and high calorie food and being a couch potato.  But a steady diet of that usually results in weight gain and sluggishness.  Planning meals in advance and exercising consistently takes time and ...discipline.

But think of this.  What would happen if you continue along the path you're currently following?  Let's just say you're 40 years old.  If you gained two pounds per year, by the time you are 60 years old you'd be 40 pounds heavier.

Talk about fearing the consequences!

As we age we lose muscle mass.  Have you noticed that little jiggle under your arm?  Muscles are the energy powerhouse of our bodies. Those extra calories and sedentary living will result in weight gain over time.

Maybe we can see the value of making a few changes towards better health?  What a better attitude instead of simply fearing the consequences of continuing an unhealthy lifestyle.

Discipline doesn't have to be a bad word!


So what do I do?

  • I shop the outside aisles in the grocery store
  • I purchase fresh vegetables and fruits
  • I plan my meals in advance
  • I take healthy snacks with me to work or on the road
  • I drink lots of water
  • I exercise every day on my treadmill
  • I lift my hand weights every other day
  • I get down on my mat and stretch
So far my weight is slowly coming off.  It's not as fast as I'd like but I know I'm making progress.  So slow and steady is my mantra. Persistence and endurance are key.  I'm thinking long term.

How about you?  Are you taking the first step to discipline yourself into a healthy way of living?  I'd love to hear about your progress.

I'm linking up with Kim of Making 40 Fantastic for Weigh-in Wednesday.

Blessings and love,

QuickEdit
Debbie Petras
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7 comments:

  1. Discipline and Self-Control are two words I've been praying for every morning when it comes to my health journey. Self-control to stay the course with healthier and better nutrition for my body, and discipline to keep at it. This week I'm really focusing on discipline for exercise. I did pick it up a little last week, so I'm looking to keep growing with it!
    You are absolutely right. Discipline is a good good thing. :)

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  2. Discipline is the key. And it is one of those words that I don't particularly like. I'm one of those spontaneous people~which in moderate doses is good. But as a lifestyle, it has serious consequences.
    And you're right about those two pounds a year adding up to 40 lbs. before you know it!!! I have a lot to lose.
    So thank you for being disciplined and encouraging others to do the same.
    Blessings,
    Janis

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  3. Debbie, I think you are looking in my mirror! Everything you said is so true! And yes, just pounds a year is so scary. This year it has been more than that for me. So that is why I am trying to be more disciplined. The outcome is the results feel good. :) Have a great week, friend!

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  4. Great post! And I love that you focus on seemingly little things we can do to be disciplined in our journey toward being healthy. Thank you for linking up and being such an encourager Friend!

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  5. Good for you Debbie, slow and easy does it!! Discipline is something most all are lacking and most all of us need. I was so blessed to be raised by two very disciplined parents, thus I am fairly disciplined in my own life. I could certainly use some tweeking in some areas, but I'm at least on the right track. :o)

    Stay the course! A great post!

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  6. Dear Debbie
    I agree so much about feeling sluggish when you are not eating right! I have come to realize that if I don't eat healthy, my Fivpbro becomes worse! So I try to make one meal at least everyday just fruit. Sometimes I make it even two. I just had a big piece of cheesecake with my son, and I alreadu have that stuffed feeling!
    Blessings
    Mia

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  7. Hi Debbie! It sounds like you are making some really good changes to your life and diet. And linking up with others to get some support. Smart!

    I need to be as organized as you are! Thanks for inspiring me :)

    Peace in Christ,
    Ceil

    ReplyDelete

I love to read your comments! I know you have something to share so join in the conversation. And thank you for taking the time.

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