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Day 76: Reflecting on Smart Carbs and Nurturing Progress

A serene night scene in a kitchen where a bowl of beans is soaking on the counter, bathed in moonlight streaming through the window. A calendar with the reminder 'Cook tomorrow' hangs on the wall, suggesting meal preparation for the next day. The peaceful ambiance is enhanced by the soft glow of the moon, casting gentle shadows and highlighting the simplicity of the kitchen, from the sink faucet to the wooden utensils. The quiet of the night promises a fresh start for the culinary tasks ahead.

Weekly Recap and Preparing for the Week Ahead

The program's weekly recap came with practical tips on incorporating more smart carbs into our meals, emphasizing the importance of preparation. From soaking grains and beans for better digestibility to searching for new recipes and roasting vegetables for easy meal additions, these strategies are invaluable for streamlining my nutrition throughout the week. This structured approach to meal prep not only simplifies dietary choices but also ensures that I'm consistently incorporating nutritious, energy-boosting carbs into my diet.

Reflections on Smart Carb Efforts

This week, I've made conscious choices to improve my carb intake, opting for sprouted multi-grain bread over whole wheat, incorporating more whole fruits, and enjoying chili with black beans. These small but significant adjustments represent my ongoing commitment to eating smarter, not just less, and highlight the value of choosing quality carbs that fuel my body effectively.

Overcoming Challenges with Resilience

Facing unexpected criticism from family members about my choices to explore further learning and dismissive comments on my dietary strategies was challenging. However, using the skills I've learned in the program, I managed to navigate these emotional waters by focusing on my feelings during a reflective walk with my dog. This not only helped me to process the emotions but also prevented the anticipated emotional eating that often follows such interactions.

Emotional Eating

I realized today I am not concerned if I have an emotional eating episode anymore. I understand that they can happen for a variety of reasons and if they do, that's okay. Notice and name what is happening and move on. 

Looking Ahead with Smart Carb Strategies

In the coming week, I'm planning to continue my practice of incorporating smart carbs by preparing more chili for lunches, choosing sprouted bread, and prioritizing whole fruits. These actions are not just about maintaining a balanced diet; they're about reinforcing habits that contribute to my overall wellness.

Valuable Lessons and New Learnings

The insights on cooking beans and grains, along with the visual portion size guidance, have been particularly enlightening. The program's hands-on approach to measuring serves as a simple yet effective tool for maintaining balance. Additionally, the live session on Habituation & Normal Eating has sparked a deeper interest in understanding my relationship with food, prompting me to dive into recommended readings for further exploration.

Active Recovery and Positive Reinforcement

Today's active recovery was made special by my husband joining me and our dog for a neighborhood walk, taking advantage of the mild 13°C weather. Despite encountering unexpected construction, we enjoyed a peaceful stroll, further aided by our dog's improved behavior towards other dogs—a result of consistent training and positive reinforcement. This progress is heartening, reflecting not just on my fitness journey but also on the broader aspects of care and training we provide for our beloved pet.

Active recovery for sustainable health—dive deeper here.

Reflections on Growth, Understanding, and Support

Day 76 has been a day of introspection, learning, and tangible progress, both personally and in the care of our dog. Each step, whether it's choosing healthier carbs, dealing with family dynamics, or supporting my husband and dog in their own recoveries, contributes to a larger narrative of growth and resilience. The support from the program's coaches, combined with personal determination, continues to be a cornerstone of this journey, guiding me towards a healthier, more balanced life.

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