Somebody Had to Say It

I just hate to talk about this, but I do not think that I have a choice. Somebody has to be the one to say it. Why not I; especially since I can relate. The struggle is real! Beware of the sneaky little low key temptations lurking in the background. Most people are focusing on warding off fear because of the pandemic. However, beware of the increase in Cortisol levels, which is a by-product of stress. Our Adrenal glands generate and release Cortisol (stress hormones) into our bloodstream causing an elevated heart rate and blood pressure, surge in glucose, stops insulin production, constrict arteries, release of epinephrine, and many more responses to the body that occurs as the body prepares for “fight or flight. During fight or flight, you can probably ‘leap a tall building in a single bound’, metaphorically speaking of course. Basically, you are more energetic, mentally astute, and physically stronger (powerful). You probably are wondering, what’s the problem… I can use some of that!

The problem: Imagine your body in this state consistently… not good! Too much of a good thing can and most of the time will become a bad thing. In this case, weight gain. Yes, I said it! During this indoor crisis, be careful of the temptation to stress eat or eat out of boredom. You think you are hungry, but you are not. Those extra snacks and excess food that you purchased is ‘screaming’ “eat me and eat me right now”. You have been quarantined, not to mention the gyms and sports facilities are closed, i.e. more sedentary life-styles. You literally, would have gone into the house slimmer, but will come out heavier (more weight). Take heed, be alert and watchful of the your increased hand to mouth movements. Stress and weight gain can go hand in hand. I want to help you and help myself too.

The enemy will use this to distract us from kingdom matters now and again later. “Be sober, vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour”, 1 Peter 5:8

Practical advice: 1. Be at peace with our current situation, understanding and believing that ‘this too’ will pass, trust God. 2. Put your kids‘ snacks in the back of the pantry. 3. Drink more water, put the sodas down. 5. Don’t stay up too late. 6. Go to bed at a decent hour to prevent a rise in your cortisol levels. 7. Develop an exercise regimen (workout videos), 8. If you must snack, beware of the carbs), 9. Try on your (dressy or favorite) outfits or even wear them daily, comb your hair, apply a little make-up, if that’s your norm, (you will feel better) 10. Twenty four/seven (24/7) pajamas and curlers might be fun and relaxing, but not a good thing, 11. When hungry, prayer helps. Finally, this might be a great time to try the Intermittent fasting plan (if okay with your doctor ), no food from (6:00 p.m. to 12:00 p.m. or 7:00 pm to 1:00 pm), then eat all your meals between 12:00 pm to 6:00 p.m., or etc. Not easy at first, I have failed for three days (I chuckle). As I stated earlier, the struggle is real. I will not be defeated. We can do this…

Heavenly Father, please help me to remember this temple is the body made for your use, you reside in it, built it to last and maintain. Help me, oh Lord, not to overeat during this season of being at home. Help me not to eat out of stress or boredom. Remove my stress Lord and give me the drive to be active and creative in my home. It is a safe haven for me and I am so thankful and grateful for this roof over our heads. Thank you for the strength and motivation to do better. In Jesus name I believe, amen!

The journey flows…

Share with us what you are doing to stay fit and healthy during this quarantine… Just click reply and help us out.