An Example With Photo Illustrations
Got my hour of exercise today - plus I got all my water in before 8 pm today. Last night I was up every couple of hours using the bathroom because I slammed that finally two glasses before bed.
I'd like to show you what exactly I'm working on this week. This is me, at my brother's wedding, just standing around:
So, yeah. Nice one! Cute shoes, right? And the dress is actually flattering...if I practice good posture, that is. And clearly, from what you are seeing in this photo, I am prone to letting it all hang out.
When I was having my super-awesome massage, the massage therapist noted that I am very strong, but told me that my muscles are pulling my shoulders forward. She cautioned me to work on my posture and strengthen my core muscles to prevent stooped shoulders and back problems as I age.
You know how in every magazine you've ever read, they have those articles on "Look 10 pounds slimmer instantly!" and it is all about raising your arms over your head and then holding that posture after lowering your arms? It works. And I am going to be prodding myself into standing up straight by putting that photo on my fridge for the next week. Because UGH.
Not only that, but I'm going to put that dress back on tomorrow, and take a photo from the same angle, with good posture and stomach control, and you'll see what I THOUGHT I was walking around looking like.
Don't even get me started on the Back Fat action I've got going on. Look. Just...look. And weep with me.
I'll spare you the flotation device snide remarks, because along with my crappy posture and flabby core muscles, I'm trying to lose my negative self-talk. I am strong, and my shoes were cute. And you can see from that photo that I am clearly trash-talking.
So, BigSlicers - Stretch your arms toward the ceiling and then hold that posture. Suck in that belly and support your spine. And put on some cute shoes. It makes all the difference.
Comments
Everyone gets caught out with a bad camera angle - Tyra Banks for example. Put the other photos up to show us how you worked it at that wedding.
Posted by: HealthyMummy | March 6, 2007 9:07 PM
which is why I am the one to TAKE the pictures. I hate seeing pics of myself, God forbid full length.
Posted by: maria | March 7, 2007 6:23 AM
I'm proud of you.
Posted by: steph | March 7, 2007 8:57 AM
When I was young and fit, I would jump in front of the camera every chance I got. Now? Not so much. I'm too much about the fat.
The back fat? I call that whole area my "dinner roll" and I take it to every meal lol.
I'm trying to cut out the negative talk, too. I had a week full of bad choices, but the only thing I can do is reverse it this week.
Posted by: Sillychick | March 7, 2007 10:16 AM
I also have terrible posture thanks to some spine problems and then of course three pregnancies. Have you ever done Callanetics? It's like a combo of yoga, ballet and pilates to strengthen your core, and the exercises are very gentle. There are DVDs and also books. This post reminded me to get mine out and start the 30 day program!
Posted by: Elizabeth | March 7, 2007 11:52 AM
Girl your backfat ain't got nothing on mine, so no need to weep. And the shoes? KILLER! When I win this contest you should buy me a pair as a congratulatory gift. I wear a size 10.
Posted by: Fat Bridesmaid | March 7, 2007 3:09 PM
I slouch in my desk chair ALL DAY LONG. I've been told my whole life, sit up! pull your shoulders back! stop slouching! I like the way you start your good posture....the arm raise works great! I'll be using that trick! LOVE THE SHOES!
Posted by: MJ | March 7, 2007 5:59 PM
First of all, I think you are beautiful. Just the way you are. I hear you about having things you want to change (or make go away entirely, aka "back fat"). But don't forget that you are already a beautiful woman.
Posted by: Kris | March 7, 2007 6:42 PM