You are what you eat

[Image credit: zole4]

A while back I posted a status update on Facebook: If you are what you eat, then I’m a Hershey’s chocolate kiss.  Although written in jest, it’s true the fuel we take in not only affects the inside of our bodies, but it shows on the outside.  Clear skin, shiny hair and overall good health are strong indicators of good nutrition.  Add to that a regular fitness plan, and you’ve got the right idea.  Coming from somebody who’s struggled with an eating disorder and psychological issues revolving around food, as well as dealing with an ornery digestive system, I know how hard it can be to make healthy choices when we’re bombarded with so many unhealthy ones.  The closer to the earth our food choices originate, however, the better they are for our bodies.  So the candy corn I abstained from last week was a good move.  But chocolate contains antioxidants, so I’m not giving that up as easily.

If you are what you eat, what are you?

Pushing myself to the edge

[Image credit: Vlado]

Some of you may have read about my battle with an eating disorder in a recent In With Skin article.  Although years later I am in a much better place physically, at times I still struggle psychologically.  For example, Friday and Saturday, combined, I logged in 4.25 hours between the gym and Yoga studio.  A girlfriend asked me why I push myself so hard.  Without analyzing it too much, in some ways it’s oftentimes the only area of my life I truly feel in control over.  Poor food choices or personal issues beyond my power equal double-time in my happy place(s).  Of course, there’s also an element of attempting to fight the age thing. My girlfriend also suggested it’s a form of punishment.  Whatever the reason, for me there’s nothing like the endorphin rush I receive — even the emotionally-charged moments where I’ve been flailed, my feelings stripped raw and exposed.  Makes you want to hit the gym with me next time, doesn’t it?

Where’s your go-to happy place?