What suits me?

It is achievable.....I can lose weight... I be fit and determined.... I can actually commit to something and complete it...... !!! The dread that I have previously felt of thinking that I could never actually stick at something long enough to achieve result and the despair of thinking that my body could just never look as good as the photo above has gone... I can... I just always need to focus on what suits me.  After a struggle last week and an outstandingly positive one this week I think I am a little clearer in this area of what suits me.

1. I am a solitary exerciser... I dont enjoy group exercise, sports, running etc... and in particular I do not like zumba!  But I do exercise consistently and solidly when alone, it is my time and I love it.
2. I do need to stand on the scales daily, whether that is to see the numbers go down or to motivate me to do more, it is a part of my daily routine.
3. I have struggled because I have been feeling that I am missing out on beautiful flavours and experiences when not tasting food (we are self proclaimed masterchefs in our household)... this has led me to overeat so that I dont miss out the next time....I have since discovered that if I have a mouthful only of the meal/dessert etc that I am completely satisfied, I dont want anymore of it and my temptations and cravings disappear because I have been able to taste the item.  ... I know it sounds weird, but realising this has been my greatest moment yet on 12wbt and has given me confidence and motivation ..... and yes I do include the mouthful in my calorie count AND this only happens once or twice a week, not every day or at every meal!

So... I have been doing my DVD's everyday, which I love and incorporating some walking and running into my outdoor program and am feeling fit, healthy and strong (both physically & emotionally)... but have been thinking that I would love some extra motivation but not sure where to find it.... suddenly I received it!
 I was listening to the radio today and heard the story of the 2012 Paraolympian Joann Formosa and want to share some of her story here.....

Joann is 51 years old and competing in this years Para Olympics..... 25 years ago Joann’s body was pulled in opposite directions when she attempted to open a gate while riding a horse at her home in Victoria. She was crushed against the gate, severely damaging her central nervous system that led to incomplete paraplegia. Joann was left with multiple disabilities and ongoing health problems.
"I am anaphylactic and have restricted movement all over my body," she said. "I rely on almost daily care from dedicated nurses". "Without their help I wouldn't be able to train and compete like I do.
"There are so many physical and mental ups and downs that they have helped me through.
"As I don't have adequate muscle control in my legs to use stirrups, I am one of only two equestrians in Australia who ride without them in major competitions."
The story of the bond that has developed and her horse (Worldwide) that is her 'team' and the work, training, dedication, strength and tears that have gone into making it this far and soooo inspirational and convince me that I can do anything.... Joann says that she is like a peg on the line when she is riding just trying to remain straight and not slip to the side. She does core strengthing activities regularly to try to combat the way her body sags to one side.  Worldwide has needed to be trained to respond to voice and seat commands instead of leg commands and his beautiful nature and willingness has enabled them to become a perfect winning combination..... Keep an eye out for them at the Paraolympics!

This is my current motivation, this is why I am sharing this.....I am a horserider and this shows me that attitude and perserverence in the things the suit me and that I like will allow me to succeed. Joann wont ever know that I am inspired by  her and I am sure that she would be surprised to think that her story would inspire weightloss and healthy living... but I thank her.
I guess the moral of the story is .... find what suits you and motivates you.... it will not be the same as anyone elses thing.
I would love to hear what your thing is............please comment

Have a great Week 6
Love to you all
Karen