Awake

Day One As "Healthy Girl" (Urban Extended Remix)

Today I kick-off my new life as Healthy Girl. This morning I met with my doctor, Dr. Ariel Policano, a naturopatic doctor and at lunch time I met with my very own personal trainer, Susanne, the owner of Miss Fit, for a 30-minute strength assessment and workout.

The verdict? Dr. Ariel thinks I have low stomach acid (which is pretty common), I'm deficient in essential fatty acids, and I probably am allergic to dairy. She's recommended an "anti-inflammatory" food plan. I'm not exactly sure what that means, but I've got some handouts to read to get a better idea. She's also given me a few supplements. This is good news because now I have a compelling reason to make healthier choices in what I eat. (Sometimes a girl just needs a really specific reason before she'll make a change.) I'm also meeting next week with a nutritionist at Dr. Ariel's office for some creative menu ideas. Good times.

My 30 minutes with Susanne was excellent. She is a superb coach. We did strength assessment (push-ups, sit-ups, squats with 40-lbs, jump rope, etc.) and then played with the balance ball a bit. I was all hot and sweaty and red-in-the-face afterwards, but I sure feel great right now. She gave me homework -- walking, yoga on Saturday (my first yoga class ever) and a hike on Sunday (Columbia Gorge, anyone?) and I meet with her again next Thursay before class.

All I have to do to afford all of these "healthy choices" is to stop driving my car and take public transportation and pretty much stop eating out. I estimate that will save me close to $600 per month (whoa!) which is more than enough to cover these costs plus groceries.

So here's to good health and happiness. Cheers!