How do we remain accountable? And what fitness plans work for our schedules? I look back when I was dedicated to practicing Zumba in the spring of 2011, yet when it ended, I kind of backed away from fitness. Soon after, my family experienced a life-altering trial, and I was away from home quite a bit, eating fast food nearly every day. I still remember heading to the hospital during the start of summer vacation, eating a breakfast of McDonalds and thinking it was justified. I began enjoying mocha frappes quite a bit-- as well as those delectable bacon, cheese, and egg sandwiches on English muffins.
I even noticed where I went to school a few mornings last year and ate the same meal! It jolted me awake. Seeing I am not a morning person (I know, classic, seeing I am a teacher), I amazed myself that I ate breakfast and that I felt better upon eating it.
I think what changed me the most, though, was how dedicated I am to my classroom. As you know, I love creating teaching materials. I also spend a great deal of time focusing on the kinds of questions I ask my students. I dedicate a few hours every day to planning, even when the plans have already been written out in advance. I also love sleep, so therefore, I don't set aside time to be active like I should.
My realization struck recently when I realized I needed to be in better shape and eat food that REALLY makes me feel better. I took out one of my fitness CDs that fueled some exercise in 2009, decided to start walking, and purchased a Wii fit. As of today, I am beginning to eat more well-balanced, natural meals. Right now, it is excellent, as I wish I would have done more earlier in the summer, but I wonder how things will progress once I get back into the routine. We all know how it is, sort of.
How about you? How has fitness worked for you during the school year? (Exercise, eating habits, etc.)
Two years ago I made a decision to exercise more regularly. For me, the difficultly was in finding the time. I knew that in order for me to do this I had to 1. start small and 2. stop making excuses because of work. I was able to find a local bootcamp that offered a four-week session of classes at 5 AM. I felt that I could commit to four weeks and I wouldn't have any excuses as to why I couldn't make a 5 am class - what ELSE was I doing at that hour?! I've kept it up because I enjoy it so much. I consider myself a morning person, so this works for me. Some of the best ideas I've had for my students have come during a morning run, and I've gotten to know some great people through those classes. Having time for myself in the morning helps me be present for my students later in the day. I also really like getting it over with early in the day so I don't have to dread it later, or if I need to stay later at work, I can.
ReplyDeleteI tend to pack the same snacks and lunch every day with food I know makes me feel full. I also try to stay on the same schedule so my body knows when it's time to eat and when it's not. It also helps me to have water nearby at all times. Usually when I feel hungry, I'm really just thirsty :)
I commend your efforts to eat healthier and stay active. As teachers, we tend to give so much of ourselves to our students, and it's important that we remember to take time for ourselves. Good luck!
Good for you!! I need to do the very same thing. I have a tendency to grab things that are fast which usually means packaged and it doesn't give me the energy I need. One of the ways I have gotten exercise back in my weekly routine is with volleyball. All the elementary schools in my cluster put together a volleyball team. We practice Tuesdays and play games on Thursdays. We do everything at school or at a school near by so it is really easy and built into my day. It has been so much fun and a great way for staff to release some pressure and have fun together. Maybe you could get something going in your school or district. It made me happy just to be at school and I found myself thinking, "I can't miss school today. We have a game!" Hehe - just like in high school. You have to be present to play.
ReplyDeleteGood luck! ~ Amanda
The Teaching Thief
I just found your blog, and I love it! I teach third grade. Anyway, for me self-care is highly important! I try to do yoga twice a week, and attend fitness classes three times a week, too. I give myself some grace during the first month of teaching, and make working out a priority on the wkend. I NEVER workout on Fridays!!!
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