For as long as I can remember, even as a child, I've always had an interest in food. Not only in the nutritional content, but why we choose the foods we do, and then how that affects other aspects of our life. I began studying this in high school, then college and my internship and I've been passionate about it since.
The single most important thing I've learned through all of my research an studying is that to begin to understand your patterns, cravings, and desires around food you must first know yourself. Yep, I said it and it sounds so simple and common sensical, yet so many people live day to day without thinking about themselves on any level.
Throughout the years I've learned many things about myself when I stop to pay attention. I know that if I don't get enough sleep (such as last night when I was up with my sick child several times) it has a HUGE effect on what I choose to eat the next day. I've also learned that if I wait to exercise in the afternoon, it doesn't happen-I do much better getting up early before the rest of the family gets up. It gives me time to myself that I thoroughly enjoy. Most recently I've started meditating, and I've noticed a tremendous difference in my patience. I am more patient when driving, when convincing my son why he has to brush is teeth, and also more patience with my husband who has a tendency to talk alot once he gets started.
Occasionally I feel like I have more about myself that I need to learn, and now is one of those times. I've been feeling like there's a part of me I don't quite know well enough. After you stop to pay attention to yourself, the next step is to write it down or journal what's going on. For many years I avoided journaling because I thought it was too intense and too much to do. However I realized that my journal can be whatever I want it to be. So here I go again. I'm starting my journal, this time keeping track of how certain foods affect me (I'm interested in sugar specifically), gratitude, and a few other things. As a food coach, I am here to keep you accountable and now you can do the same for me. I'll keep you posted on what I learn this time.
I'd love to hear about your journaling journey. Feel free to share things you've learned about yourself or ask questions to get you started. It can be very informative and liberating all at the same time!
