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Day 43: New Habits and the Joy of Proper Footwear

A pair of vibrant, neon-colored running shoes positioned against a gradient blue and gray background. The shoes feature a dynamic mix of pink, blue, green, and yellow hues with intricate patterns woven into the fabric, creating a sense of movement and energy. The soles have a bold, layered design, enhancing the perception of cushioning and support. These visually striking sneakers convey a sense of high performance and style, designed for both function and fashion.

Welcome back to my daily blog about improving my health, I hope you find something that you can incorporate on your own journey!

A New Nutritional Focus: Lean Protein

Today marks a significant milestone in our journey, as we introduce the first habit specifically centered around nutrition: incorporating lean protein into every meal. This new habit, aimed at enhancing our dietary practices, is a testament to the program's holistic approach, focusing not just on what we eat but how we eat. The provided infographic, with its simple "eat more, eat some, eat less" columns, offers a practical guide without imposing strict restrictions. 

My goal is to prioritize the "eat more" category, although this will require some adjustments, especially during dinner times where "eat some" and "eat less" items frequently appear on our menu. Balancing personal preferences with nutritional goals promises to be an interesting challenge, particularly with family favorites like baked chicken wings and hamburgers.

A Refreshing Change in Footwear

Today's workout, accompanied by my now-familiar guided meditation, was notably improved by a simple change: new shoes for the treadmill. The difference was immediate and profound, eliminating the hip discomfort I'd been experiencing due to the uneven wear of my previous pair. This adjustment not only alleviated physical strain but also enhanced my overall exercise experience, allowing me to focus more on the meditative aspects of the walk. Interestingly, my Fitbit recognized my activity as machine-based, likely due to the speed, for the first time vs just another walking ession, adding an extra layer of satisfaction to the session.

Reflections on Progress and Adaptations

Seven weeks into the program, the introduction of a nutrition-focused habit feels like a natural progression. It's a reminder of the journey's depth, extending beyond mere physical activity to encompass a comprehensive understanding of dietary health. The emphasis on lean protein is a welcome challenge, one that aligns with the program's ethos of making sustainable, healthful changes rather than prescribing a one-size-fits-all diet.

Adjusting to new dietary habits while maintaining the foundational practices of eating slowly, mindfully, and until satisfied will undoubtedly require some finesse, especially in a household with diverse tastes. Yet, the program's flexible framework encourages personal adaptation, making it feasible to navigate these changes without feeling restricted.

Today also underscored the importance of proper equipment, in this case, footwear, in supporting our physical activities. The relief from switching to a more suitable pair of shoes is a reminder of the often-overlooked aspects of our fitness routines that can have significant impacts on our comfort and performance.

Looking Ahead

As we move forward with this new habit, I'm curious to see how the focus on lean protein will influence not just my meals but my overall sense of well-being and progress towards my goals. Today's workout, free from the distraction of discomfort, has left me feeling optimistic about the weeks ahead. It's a poignant reminder that sometimes, the right support—whether in the form of nutrition, footwear, or guided meditation—can make all the difference in our journey towards a healthier self.

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