I can’t believe how amazing I feel after walking for only three days! For those who have followed my journey, you know that I suffer from back pain due to a protruding disc. You also know that prior to being sidelined with this protrusion intrusion, I was quite active as a Zumba Instructor, running and simply enjoying the freedom of being able to move my body.
Since the beginning of 2014, my back has gotten progressively worse and as a result, I’ve been limited, physically, in what I can do in my efforts to lose weight. I’ve had to give up Zumba and stop running. Walking for a long length of time became challenging for me to do as well. It didn’t help that I had gained back 81lbs (10lbs more than I had lost). Sucks right? I know!
Over the past few years, I’ve tried to restart my weight loss efforts several times. But nothing I’ve done since this setback in my journey has lasted long. In my frustration with the pain, I allowed myself to become a couch potato and did very little to improve my situation. I have not been totally incapacitated with this disc problem, but with the piling on of the weight, not only did the pain get worse but it stays around longer. But here’s one thing I know for sure…if once I can get my weight down at least 50lbs to start, I believe the pressure on my back will lessen and so will the pain!
In comes this challenge to the rescue! I’ve been walking, albeit VERY slow for the past three days, but already I feel the difference in my back. Don’t get me wrong…the discomfort is still there, but after I stretch and put some heat on my back I’ve been waking up pain-free. I’m not yanking your chain or hyping this thing up. Honestly, I’m amazed myself because each time I’ve tried before, I couldn’t keep it up because it was just too uncomfortable. Can you say #Winning!?
Today I noticed I was able to pick up my pace just a smidge and not even a hint of pain. From a spiritual standpoint, I know this is God showing me that if I am faithful to the process He will be faithful in my healing. Hold on a minute while I get my praise on!!!
And so, I am more committed to my wellness program than ever before. If I am experiencing these kinds of results after only three days, I’m preparing for my mind to be completely blown by day 100! This is teaching me, or shall I say that it is reminding me to simply do what I can for as long as I can until I am able to do better.
Your Turn To Share
What is a first step that you can take towards reaching a goal? What’s holding your back? What are you going to do to get started?
Sara says
Hi, Stacey.
The title drew me in as it’s exactly how I feel.
I walk because I can.
I have lower back pain too.
When I’m over a certain weight, it becomes very painful to walk (even stand) for long periods of time.
My son encouraged me to get moving earlier this year and for some reason, I didn’t bypass his advice.
I’ve been at it for about 3 months and slowly increasing my time.
I’m not perfect but I am moving.
You really don’t appreciate things until they’re gone, like being able to stand without pain. ^_^
#blogboost
Sara recently posted…Holidays Are for Relaxing
Stacey Strickler says
Hi Sara! So nice to “virtually” meet you! Sounds like you definitely know the struggle. Kudos to you listening to the encouragement from your son! Your testimony is and encouragement to me. We don’t have to be perfect but we must keep moving! You said a mouthful there, you definitely don’t miss your water until your well runs dry. Stay encouraged and keep things moving! Best of luck to you!!
Glenda Cates says
Congrats on walking and I also wish I was doing more walking so I could lose weight as I also need to lose between 50 and 70 pounds but my knees are not letting me exercise the way I need to.
Stacey Strickler says
Hi Glenda! Thank you! Being physically limited is so frustrating, but don’t be discouraged. If you can’t move well right now, if I may suggest, focus on your eating to get your weight down. Exercise can come later. Don’t give up, you can change your situation. I’ll be praying for you.
Fran says
Back pain is so frustrating and limiting. I love walking, and it has always helped my back pain and mobility through the years. When my back is good I am at the gym doing yoga,sh’bam and zumba. For the last few months it hasn’t been great, so I started water workout exercise groups. My back loves it and it really is a lot of fun. Enjoy your walking!
Stacey Strickler says
Yes it is!! I LOVE Zumba, so much so that I used to teach it. I hope to be able to do so again. My plan is to add yoga to my bag of tricks in the not so distant future. You are hitting all the sweet spots…I plan on doing water workouts as well. I like what you said, “when my back is good”…I’m going to take a page from your book and get as much done in the form of exercise every day that my back is good. Thank you so much for sharing!!!!