Loss, Recovery, & NOOMing into the future!

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Last Summer, I left a company that I worked at since September of 2013, with no secure plan on what was coming next for me. A month later, I lost my maternal grandmother, followed soon after by my paternal grandmother, which ultimately shattered my heart. 

Despite being aware that difficult times and loss were an inevitable part of life, I quickly went down a rabbit hole. I started traveling and eating almost everything in sight in hopes of distracting myself. Looking back, I don't blame myself, considering how my world was suddenly turned upside down. And as I've mentioned before, food has always been a lifelong love of mine. No matter what's going on in my life, I often turn to food as a form of comfort. And in those sad, Summer months, I'm embarrassed to say that I ended up packing on way more pounds than I'm proud of.

It wasn't until this past March, when my parents pointed out how "healthy" I was looking, during a family trip to Spain (Madrid and Barcelona), that I snapped out of my disillusioned state. I wasn't taking care of myself, and I finally had to face how I was I living my life. 

We all fall on hard times and have different ways of grieving. But as the natural wheel of fortune turns, you eventually find yourself slowly but surely making your way back up from the bottom.

And this is where my journey with Noom began! 

Noom's mission is to help people everywhere lead healthier lives through behavior change. And that is exactly what it has done for me! I have lost 20 lbs so far using their program, and I feel as though I am well on my way to reaching my fitness goals as well as making a permanent healthy lifestyle change for the future.

Using Noom's app, I've learned how to create healthier habits, reduce my risk of chronic health problems, and foster a healthier relationship with food and myself in the process.

Every morning after my sun salutation and daily meditation practices, I open up the app to add my current weight and read through my daily articles. I also check the app throughout the day to log my meals. It was pretty simple and easy to incorporate into my day to day routine.

Another great aspect to the program is my personal Goal Specialist and Coach, Telisa! Telisa checks in with me weekly, discussing my current and ever-changing fitness goals. In a way, she feels like my therapist, holding me accountable while also allowing me to be vulnerable and open up about how I'm feeling overall. Having a Coach to help me on my journey has been a tremendous help. Telisa has allowed me to truly reflect on both my physical and mental health, which I know will ultimately ensure the changes I've made will stick with me in the long run.

For anyone like me, who is currently going through a rough time, know that you are not alone. And don't be ashamed for wandering off your usual path seeking comfort from outlets that might not be the healthiest, such as food. I've been exactly where you are and I was able to pull myself together and find my way back.

I understand that Noom is not for everyone, but if you're looking to try something new. I can personally attest that Noom has helped me in so many ways to become a happier and healthier version of myself. I'm so grateful for Noom, Telisa, and where as well as who I am today. So what are you waiting for? Sign-up here for a free 14-Day Noom trial today!

XO,

Denise

How-To: NamaSLAY

It's no secret that my day hasn't begun until I've completed my morning Sun Salutation, aka Surya Namaskar. Even though yoga is one of my favorite ways to get my body moving nowadays, it wasn't always. I used to be the one at the back of every yoga class giggling to myself about my lack of flexibility and balance, eventually falling asleep during savasana. lol

Over time, I've learned a few key ways to keep myself mindful and fully engaged in my workout. If you have trouble enjoying yoga and want to start a more engaged and meaningful practice so you can enjoy in all of its benefits, let me help! 

DECIDE TO HAVE FUN

It can be a little daunting trying to figure out which type of yoga is best for you. But don't forget that should be part of the fun, so you should enjoy the process of exploring and maybe bring a friend or two along with you. In fact, my most memorable yoga event last year was attending Soul Pose with my besties. Stop over-thinking, get out of your own head, and decide that yoga is something you can enjoy!

ACCESSORIES MATTER 

Once I was in my new yogi mindset, I knew that I had to get the right gear. I scoured the internet for reviews to ensure that I'd get the most bang for my buck, and you should too! From new yoga outfits to look scorching at your next Bikram yoga class to finding the Best Yoga Mat, take your time and find accessories that set your yogi soul on fire!

LOOK GOOD | FEEL GOOD

Slowly but surely I saw and felt gradual changes in my body. It was amazing seeing myself doing things that I originally thought that my body was incapable of. Every day, whether it's my morning sun salutation or a Vinyasa class with my co-workers, I clear my mind and set my intentions for the day or even just the workout. Know that this time is for you and the more you focus and be mindful at this moment, the more benefits you'll reap later on. 

I hope my yogi tips help you NamaSLAY your next yoga sesh! :) 

XO,

Denise

Soul Pose | The Happiest Yoga on the Planet!

When it comes to working out, I'm all about intensity. There's nothing more frustrating to me than spending 30 minutes to an hour feeling bored as if my heart isn't pumping nearly as hard as it should be. Time is very precious to me, so I don't like feeling as though I've wasted the hours I've dedicated to fitness, not having even broken a sweat. Because of this, when I workout the more excitement and intensity it involves, the better! I love HIIT (high-intensity interval training), martial arts, cardio kickboxing, running, and Bikram yoga.  

This past Saturday, October 22nd, I attended Soul Pose, a blacklight yoga party with glowing bubbles, UV body paint, and all around good vibes. Knowing that I usually get bored easily from practicing standard Vinyasa yoga, I was a bit hesitant to sign up at first, but the "party" aspect of the event made me curious, and I'm happy to report that it was well worth the registration fee. 

My participation kit included a yoga mat, a glowing "Soul Pose" bracelet, an embroidered towel, a namaste bracelet, and a packet of confetti. Upon arrival, I checked in to receive my namaste bracelet and do my UV body paint. My yoga mat and other goodies were waiting for me inside the venue. The yoga practice was a great mixture of Vinyasa, Bikram, and core work. Plus, the dance breaks, inspiring words, and confetti throwing made it  such a fun experience from start to finish. 

Before starting our yoga practice, we were told to write one word on our yoga mats that we love about ourselves. (I wrote "ambitious") Then, we were told to write one word that represents the quality that we give to the world. (I wrote "inspiring") This one act was so empowering to me. For the past few days, I've been starting my mornings with Surya Namaskar aka "Sun Salutations" and meditation each morning. I've even added this to my morning routine as well. Any small reminder to love myself and reflect on what I give to the world is incredibly important for my self-confidence. :) 

If you're interested in trying Soul Pose yourself, be sure to check out the website here. If there's one in your area, I'd definitely recommend registering ASAP. 

XO,

Denise

P.S. If you have any intense workouts that you love, please leave a comment down below! I'm always looking for new ways to stay fit! 

Wellness 101: Hiking Mission Peak!

Hello my Loves!

Last Wednesday, I posted a video about my recent hike up Mission Peak with my friend Dianna on September 11th. Mission Peak is located in Fremont, CA, and it's one of my favorite places to hike in the Bay Area. It is an excellent butt & thigh workout, since the trail is so steep. Just in case you missed it, take a look at the video below! ENJOY! <3

 If you ever do this hike, it is ESSENTIAL to take a victory photo at the top! LOL

Me & my friend Dianna

Do you live in the Bay Area? What are some of your favorite places to hike? I'd love to know!

xoxo

Denise Joyce

Wellness 101: How I Stay Motivated!

Hello my Loves!

In today's Wellness 101, I want to share how I stay motivated and continue in my journey to Wellness. There are three components that help me stay motivated: Seeing Results, Accomplishing Fitness Goals, and Motivational Fitness Quotes. Keep reading to see how each one helps keep me motivated!

SEEING RESULTS
After pushing myself through the initial two weeks, I started to see changes in my body. I began to lose weight and inches all over. I started to look and feel amazing! My clothes fit much better, and I would continually get compliments from my friends and family. The results I get make everything worth it in the end. It makes me happy to see the changes in my body, and it only pushes me forward to continue to get positive results and reactions from others.

ACCOMPLISHING FITNESS GOALS
In last week's Wellness 101, I briefly spoke about setting fitness goals and how great it feels to accomplish them. When I set small tangible fitness goals for myself, I create a never-ending cycle of success that I know I'll never be able to get enough of. As I accomplish a goal, I also make sure to reward myself and take time to bask in my fitness glory. Success is truly addictive, and it helps push you further on your journey toward Wellness.

MOTIVATIONAL FITNESS QUOTES
Using Pinterest, I've dedicated an entire board to Wellness, featuring some of my favorite motivational fitness quotes. Whenever I'm feeling particularly lazy, I open up this Pinterest board to inspire me. You can see my Wellness board here. The quotes that I include help push me forward and consistently remind me of why I started in my Wellness journey in the first place. Included are some of my favorite motivational fitness quotes below. Enjoy!

How do you stay motivated? Let me know in a comment below! 

xoxo

Denise Joyce

Wellness 101: FITNESS

Hello my Loves!

In today's Wellness 101, I want to focus on Fitness! As many of you already know, staying active and maintaining good physical fitness is an essential part of Wellness. Unfortunately, most people will cringe just at the thought of exercise, and I want to change that!

I've learned that the key to enjoying exercise and wanting to stay active is finding a fitness routine that's fun. By designing a unique fitness routine catered to what you enjoy, it's no longer a burden, allowing you to stop making excuses and thoroughly enjoy your workouts.

Here's a few ways I learned to enjoy my workouts:

TRY EVERYTHING AT LEAST ONCE!
A few years ago, I was the girl that never wanted to go hiking; when honestly, I never went on a long, solo hike by choice before. Growing up, I hated being forced into the woods and camping. (Let's just say that I'm not fond of feeling sweaty and dirty for long periods of time. >_< hahaha)

A few months ago, I decided to go for a hike by myself through a local trail by my house. I ended up enjoying every minute of it. I liked being able to enjoy the fresh air and completely clear my mind. It has become my favorite way to wind down the end of my day. (I also like being able to hop in the shower as soon as I'm finished ;D LOL!)

I soon realized that just because I don't enjoy camping and super long hikes in hot weather, it doesn't necessarily mean that I won't enjoy quick, relaxing hikes on a nicely shaded trail. So don't be the way I was, and be so quick to write-off one healthy activity! Try hiking, biking, or even rock climbing! You never know what you might end up really enjoying!

FIND A WORKOUT BUDDY!
I LOVE working out with my friends and family. It's always more fun to work out with a buddy. When I make workout plans with my friends and family, I always end up looking forward to it all week long. Not only is it a great way to incorporate more physical activity into your daily routine, but you also get to spend quality time with someone important to you.

I also have many friends with different interests, so I may be hitting the gym with one friend one day and attending a yoga class with my sister and cousin another day. I get to enjoy their company while still staying active and mixing up my fitness routine, which I absolutely love!

TRACK YOUR WORKOUTS!
I track all of my workouts using the iPhone App RunKeeper. By tracking my workouts, I can visually see my progress. (It actually shows me when I've been particularly lazy at times too! hahaha) By seeing the distance, time, and calories I'm losing, it only pushes me to continue without excuses or room for laziness.

SET FITNESS GOALS & ACCOMPLISH THEM!
There's no better feeling than accomplishing a goal! Whether it's losing inches around your waist, running a faster mile, or finishing a half-marathon, the sense of accomplishment you get from conquering the goals you set is incredible. When you set small and easily achievable goals, like going for a walk at least 3 times a week, you propel yourself to keep going. The key is to choose easily tangible goals for the short term and aim for bigger fitness goals, like running a half-marathon, for the long term. Be sure to also reward yourself for every accomplishment! Maybe buy yourself some new running shoes, headphones, or workout clothes?! The possibilities are endless! Just keep setting those goals, and you'll soon be in a never-ending cycle of happiness! YAY! ^______^ <3

Well, I hope today's post inspires you to get off your booty & get out there! Staying active can be fun! You just have to find what works best for you! GOOD LUCK!

xoxo

Denise Joyce

Wellness 101: How I got started on my journey to Wellness!

Hello my Loves!

As many of you know, I have a new found love of health, which has inspired me to write my Wednesday blog posts as my new "Wellness 101". From my diet & fitness to what keeps me motivated, I want to share every piece of my personal Wellness journey with you all.

So to start off my Wellness 101, let's begin with how I got started!

At the end of April, I came to the realization that I was extremely unhappy with my overall health. I refused to step on a scale and see how much I weighed. Every morning, I was unhappy with what I saw in the mirror. My clothes didn't fit right, and I constantly felt sick and tired. I was always craving junk food and taking unnecessarily long naps.

When I finally reached my breaking point, I made the decision to pull myself together and change how I've been living. So far I've lost 15 pounds, but losing weight isn't the most important thing for me anymore. It's about loving myself and taking good care of my body. I'm so proud of myself for making this change, and I haven't looked back since!

Left: May 2013 Right: July 2013

xoxo

Denise Joyce

WORK IT OUT WEDNESDAY: Take a Hike

Hello my Loves! 

Some of you may know already that I've recently developed a new love for HIKING! YAY! ^________^

I've actually made an effort to hit a bunch of new trails with my friends and family, and I've compiled a list of new, local trails that I want to do in the near future. I love being out in nature and enjoying the fresh air. Working 40 hours a week sitting indoors at a desk longing to enjoy the sunshine, leaves me begging to get outside ASAP! 

I went camping this past weekend at Pinnacles National Monument, and I unfortunately got lost! >_< hahaha I had my heart set on exploring with my sister and cousin and did not realize that the trail we took did not loop around. By the time we realized that we had to double back, we had already spent 4 hours hiking further and further from our camp site. We ended up hiking for 8 hours, which ended up totaling a 20 mile hike! It was a long strenuous day that involved not only trailblazing but rock climbing and exploring dark caves by flashlight.  Before getting completely exhausted and drained, I was able to take some BEAUTIFUL pictures that I thought you all would enjoy.  

xoxo

Denise Joyce

FITNESS FRIDAY: How I learned to Eat, Sleep, & Train like GOKU ♥

Hello my Loves! 

Today, I want to talk to you about my personal heath and fitness journey and more importantly, how I learned to push through negative thoughts to find a new love of wellness! In a recent video, I informed you all that I LOST15 LBS overall during the months of May and July. Physical fitness and overall health has grown into something very important to me. Over the past few years, I've realized that I've become incredibly lazy and ate so horribly. It wasn't until I was sick and tired of the way I felt and stepped on a scale that I knew that I had to take action or things wouldn't get better. Now that I've started moving again and eating better foods, I am no longer lethargic during the day, and I look forward to getting my workouts in each day. 

When you first change your diet and exercise plan, it's always hard to stay motivated and stick with it. Your body will go into a shock mode, thinking there is no way you can stick to it. There will be fast food cravings, and your comfy couch will be calling your name. But let me be the one to tell you, YOU CAN PUSH THROUGH IT! I find that once you push past the first difficult two weeks, the results you see and the feeling of accomplishment you get will make it all worthwhile. 

The key to my success these past couple of months has been this:

"Eat, Sleep, & Workout like GOKU!"

For those of you who don't understand the Dragonball Z reference, Goku is the main protagonist. He's eccentric, and when not training, he's either eating tons of food or sleeping endlessly. I love Goku's ability to incorporate these three key health factors into his everyday life, and it has inspired my personal diet and fitness routine. 

Now, let me break it down for you!

EAT: Choose Wisely! 
Even though Goku eats massive amounts of everything, I choose to eat MORE healthy food and LESS junk food. When it comes to dieting, people usually focus on the foods that they cannot have. By actively choosing to eat better foods without restricting myself entirely, I feel better about what I eat, and I never feel deprived. For example, I CHOOSE to only drink water and tea during the week, but I allow myself to drink soda and juice on the weekends. I can eat as much fruit and veggies as I want, but if I'm craving that molten chocolate lava cake for dessert, I MUST accompany it with a salad and drink a glass water first. 

Tip: Allow for one cheat day per week! 
When your diet is restricted, the brain sends signals to the rest of your body thinking that it's starving, which ultimately slows down your metabolism. To correct this, a cheat day allows your brain and body to feel well-fed and boosts your metabolism back up! 

SLEEP: At Least 6 Hours Per Night! 
Goku sleeps A LOT, as he should considering how hard he trains! No one really considers how important rest is for your overall health. Not getting enough shut-eye leads to junk food cravings and larger portions, because your body is looking for nutrients to help keep it moving. Eight hours of sleep is ideal, but if your busy schedule doesn't allow for it, try to get at least 6 hours each night. Getting less than 6 hours of sleep increases your body's production of the hunger hormone ghrelin, whereas getting more than 6 hours of sleep increases your body's production of leptin, which controls your appetite. 

In addition to getting a good night's sleep, rest days in between intense workouts are important to allow your body to rebuild overworked muscles. Not giving your body enough time to repair and replenish can cause your muscles to breakdown from being overworked, leading to serious injury. 

Tip: Sleep in complete darkness! 
(This was very difficult for me at first, since I have a phobia of things that cannot be seen in the dark and slept with a night light for most of my life.) Even the tiniest bit of light can disrupt your internal clock, so in order to get the best sleep possible and feel completely refreshed in the morning: close your door, pull down your blinds/close your curtains, and lights out! 

WORKOUT: & make it FUN!
On my Instagram, any pictures I post during my workouts over the past two months have included the hashtag "#HyperbolicTimeChamber". In Dragonball Z, the Hyperbolic Time Chamber is in a separate dimension from Earth, a training area where a year inside is equivalent to one day in real-time with increased gravity and air density. I imagine that my workouts, no matter how brief it may be, will impact my health and fitness for many years to come. It doesn't matter how you stay active or how long you workout for, as long as you're doing something. 

The most important part of an exercise for me is finding a way to make every workout fun. Whether it's lifting weights and using an elliptical at the gym, playing sports, running outside, strolling around the park, or hiking a trail up a mountain, I am constantly mixing up my workouts. This allows me to enjoy staying active and never have a boring workout. If I don't feel like going to the gym, I'll do what I want to do, such as going to the mall. The catch is that I have to WALK to get there since I chose to skip my original workout plan. 

Anyone can find new and exciting ways to incorporate fitness into their everyday life. No one should restrict their workout to an hour at the gym on the treadmill when you can find many alternatives that will make your workout more enjoyable.

Tip: Set a goal for yourself and reward yourself when you achieve it!
Setting out to accomplish a goal is the best way to get started or continue to motivate yourself. Want to fit in your size 6 jeans again? Want to be able to run a half-marathon? Whether the goal is big or small, when you finally accomplish it, you will feel amazing and ready to conquer the next one you set for yourself! 

Well, that's it for today's post. Be sure to follow me on Instagram: MorganFreeman7 for my latest workouts and healthy snacks that I've been concocting. Finding a new love of health and fitness has completely changed my outlook these past two months. I always look forward to planning my next workout now, and I drool when I think about picking up berries at the store and throwing together a yummy berry salad. I hope to continue to lose inches and pounds. I am excited to announce that I will be running in The GIANT Race 10K on August 4th! I hope this post inspired some of you to begin a wellness journey with a new positive outlook on health and fitness! ^______^

xoxo

Denise Joyce