You’re intrigued, huh? This post likely won’t go in the direction you’re expecting so hear me out. Two weeks into Whole30, Labor Day weekend was upon us. I had no reason to veer off track; we did not have any major plans or parties. We spent some lovely time at the beach but all in all, it was a pretty regular long weekend. I can’t tell you exactly what it was, but on Day 14, we got to the beach and I said to my family, “I don’t think mommy’s diet is going to hold up today.” Once I gave myself permission, I knew I would “cheat”.
There are a few interesting things to think about here. Once I gave myself permission, it actually took quite a while for me to cheat. All of the things that I thought I wanted over the last couple of weeks, were no longer appealing now that I could have them. When I finally did indulge, the thing that I was hoping wouldn’t happen, did. I felt awful. I wanted to get sick. I was super cranky the next day. I looked like I was about 6 months pregnant from the bloat. I felt sick. The most interesting part about this? I only had 1 beer and a few tortilla chips. That’s nothing! That’s barely cheating and look at what it did to me!
Clearly I needed this more than I thought. My why was strong coming into this, at least I thought it was, but I am not a fan of, “You can’t have, do, eat, etc…” From a mental perspective, it doesn’t hold up. I question it. I want to know all of the science. Even when I do, I just don’t like being told what to do! Now that I have failed the program, I am in charge of why I am or am not eating foods. Now I am sticking to Whole30 100% because I want to.
I was noticing transformations that I never expected. Let’s take my performance at the gym. The beast that I knew was inside finally came out. The exercise-induced asthma that I developed as a child was suddenly gone. My lungs were no longer holding me back and I was unstoppable. That cheat day put all of that in jeopardy. I was/am not ok with that. Most importantly, I haven’t had reflux since starting the program. I don’t know the last time I went that long without reflux. If I’m looking at a life without reflux if I keep eating fresh, amazing food, I’ll take it!
I’m now able to connect my why with me. Not reasons I’ve read from testimonials. Not because someone told me it would be great for me. Not because I read it in a book. This time, Whole30 is on my terms.
With gratitude,
Elizabeth
GlowLoveThrive 