On Halloween morning, I woke up to the news that one of my high school classmates had a massive heart attack and died just a couple of days earlier. It really jolted me awake. I wouldn't say that we were close friends, but I have many fond memories and knew him in my past all the same. I am always startled when someone my age dies. It truly reminds me that I am not 25 anymore. A lifetime of bad choices or family genetics could catch up with me at any time as well. I am in the midst of planning a girls weekend away to Las Vegas with my sisters. (Ladies, join us!) When I shared this news, my sister reminded me that this is why we are taking such a trip. To live life to the fullest while we have the chance. This is also why I have been taking back control over my health the last few years.
Two years ago, I was laying on the floor wrestling around with my youngest son. We both were laughing and having a good time. He needed a breather from the tickle monster, so we both laid on our backs for a moment. I couldn't have been laying there for more than a minute and I felt like I was being choked. The weight of my size E chest was literally choking me. With this on top of the constant back pain I suffered, I then made the decision to talk to my doctor about a breast reduction. We have heart disease in my family, so this was my first step to combat the odds against me. 13 months ago, that finally became and reality for me. This was not an easy decision, as it affected my family financially which then turned into emotionally. I am grateful to my children that they stuck by me to make it happen, and have not regretted it since. I had amazing people step up and help my family in ways I can never repay. I feel like a brand new woman. My confidence is returning, but best of all I am beginning to feel comfortable in my own skin again. But, that was not my only health issue, so there was more work to do. Here comes the TMI part for some of you...
I have not had a period since I became pregnant with my son in 2007. Yes, 2007. After giving birth through C-Section, I got an IUD. With having a C-Section, your body responds differently to postpartum. Apparently, the IUD I chose has a history of stopping your periods. But who was complaining, right? I never dreamed the effect it would have on me and I assumed that it would return when it was removed. That was not the case. Since it was removed in early 2013, I have had a handful of period type things happen for a day at a time. I have been to a few doctors that all say my tests are normal, and that I am healthy. I am not in menopause or even peri-menopause. According to every test I have taken, I am normal. But...I cannot lose weight. None of the doctors seem to feel that my lack of menstruation has anything to do with my inability to lose weight. No matter what I do, it will not budge. I have increased my physical activity, I watch my diet, and I stopped drinking all soda. Nothing changes. The only fluctuation in weight I have had is the literal weight of my reduction. I lost weight initially when I stopped the soda, but it came back. I am stuck on this one number, and I don't like that number! I had one doctor say, "Well, at least your not gaining!" Yes, I should be happy about that, but I am not. This weight, I know is affecting my heart disease odds. Visceral fat is the worst kind, and that's what I have.
So, what's a Mama Bear to do? Well, turn to my essential oils, of course! I have decided to begin using our Metabolic Blend called Slim & Sassy. First of all, I love the name and second, I have read tons of great reviews. Since my thyroid was removed in 2000, I am super sensitive to any stimulant, which seems to come with most supplements. (Not all, but most) I can't have any stimulants and am super susceptible to anxiety. So, this works out perfect for me. This blend has no stimulants and also has been known to work to regulate my hormones, which as I get older, I need! For me, this feels like a good fit. Also, it is another way that I can use my oils to live a healthier lifestyle. Back to those basics.
I'm not willing to sit on the sidelines any longer and watch my life happen to me. I can no longer tolerate the waiting for something to happen. The time is now to step up and make it happen. Now some of the healthier choices I am making with finally show some results. We all have our own path towards health, and I feel this is part of mine.
Essential Oils for me are not a new trend or even about a business. They truly have changed my family's lives. No longer dependent upon over the counter medicines, no more cleaning my home with chemicals, no more anti-anxiety meds for me, no more daily allergy meds for my son, pain relief is at an all time high, everyone is sleeping solid, and we are no longer falling prey to the seasonal afflictions that come with each season.
I am super excited to receive my order and begin my new regimen. My daughter said that I should document it, so that when I am smokin' hot I can look back and appreciate it more! I have always wanted to be in one of those before and after stories in Prevention magazine. Maybe I can finally make that happen! Here's to our Health!
