My struggle with weight has always been intertwined with life's stresses and the battle of depression. A few months ago I believed my world was racing out of control and I found myself once again entering a dark place. While I was trying to swim to the surface, without the help of a doctor or drug, the Fit Chick Challenge was announced. I was convinced the challenge had presented itself at an opportune time. It could be just the tool I needed to help turn things around on my own. When I made the decision to be a part, I had set goals to LOSE fat like all the other women, however it turns out that an additional goal I made, to GAIN mental strength and happiness, became the real winner.

I started the challenge strong. I was determined to succeed, but when the results were slow to come, my focus began to slip and I became frustrated. It was after a heart to heart with Rachel that I learned about how chronic stress produces cortisol in the body which in turn contributes to the storage of body fat. So, not only was the stress effecting me mentally, it was also hurting me physically. The physical damage possible was witnessed again when I made a trip to Urgent Care only to find out that the sharp pain in my diaphragm was diagnosed as Gastritis, probably brought on by stress. Until I was able to calm my mind, and allow my body to function properly, the results would never come. I needed to make a point of consciously using outlets, or "drains", to help wash away and filter out the negative thoughts and energy I was holding onto. A faith in God and my daily workouts have been, and will always be, my strongest drains. For almost 25 years exercise has been a constant in my life. No matter the number on the scale, I have never thought to stop. Lifting weights had begun to improve my muscle definition and tone, and while interval training strengthened my heart, it was also empowering me and giving me a boost of energy. Exercise has done as much for my brain as it has for my body. I just needed to stop, take a breath, and remember that.

My world was becoming brighter. I was once again finding joy in my day, and after a couple of months I switched up my training schedule and started working out with a group of Fit Chicks early in the morning four days a week. Who knew that early mornings and exercise companions could make the journey so much more fun! My fat loss was only a quarter of what I was working toward, however right now in my life the clarity, joy, and gratitude I have gained back mean so much more. I will master the art of being 90% compliant with my nutrition at the next go round, so that I can once and for all reach my personal goal to be a healthy body fat percentage. I am not in a hurry, I will continue to train, grow stronger, and enjoy the process!