Motivation Monday: Marina’s Story

A new series on the blog, Motivation Monday will share YOUR stories. Have you made a change in your life? Want to share your progress? Send me a message at fitwithaundra@gmail.com and let’s tell your story!

Read previous Motivation Monday posts.

Marina’s Story

My name is Marina and I am 32-year-old mom of two (3 and 1 years old).

The New Year (2016) got me started on my fitness journey. I was tired of constantly feeling tired, sluggish, overwhelmed and unbalanced as a mother, wife, and a professional. Just like other women today, we have so much on our plates that we can lose our balance. And that is what happened with me.

I lost my balance or perhaps I hadn’t found it yet! I longed for that happy, 30 pounds lighter, bubbly confident woman I used to be. I saw the New Year as a new opportunity to get her back. It was time to take care of me.

It was time to spring to action. I created a fitness plan —  try to do an hour of exercise each day – realistically at least 5 days a week. I am not a fan of major diets as they have not worked for me in the past, however I am a fan of eating everything in moderation and having a well balanced diet (that includes chocolate).

My fitness plan is really a life change. My goal is to move, be active and have energy. To achieve this, also because I am a visual person, I make a list of all the exercise classes I would like to attend each week. I print it out and cross off as I accomplish the exercise goal. I can’t deny that my fitness plan is nothing without support. I have gotten amazing support from friends who check in regularly to see how I am doing with my daily goal.

I am in week 5 of this current fitness method and I feel more energized, slimmer, and have noticed more muscles in my body. I am now more organized and confident in my ability to multitask life. I feel like I found me again. Most importantly I am a happier, patient and active MOM.

What continues to motivate me? 1) My children – (happy mom =happy kids),  2) when a sweet jam comes on and you can’t help but move your body 3) that incredible feeling when you accomplish something you set out to do.

What’s next? Having a fitness routine has allowed me to try different types of exercises. I no longer fear the term “insanity” because in some shape and form I am doing it. I now seek to get stronger, build more endurance and just have fun being active. Also, not going to lie, my fitter body feels good too!

Looking to create your own fitness goals? What I hope is for people to realize that wellness and fitness doesn’t have to be about weight loss or the pounds on the scale but rather how one feels–physically, emotionally and spiritually! Make a list and stick with it!

Thanks so much to Marina for sharing her story!