For many people, a new year means new resolutions. Whether that involves embarking on a fitness journey, dedicating more time to reading, or bettering their financial habits, most of us start the new year off with a commitment to self-improvement. Although a new year isn’t what the ladies of 1450 needed to start focusing on making healthier choices, the New Year did play a pivotal role in reigniting their determination to make positive lifestyle changes.
The five ladies at our 1450 program could not imagine life without each other. Having shared a living space for over a decade, they’ve developed individual routines and rituals while navigating through various life changes. When some of the ladies started seeing a dietician, they all decided it was time to really focus on their overall health. Empowered by the knowledge gained during these consultations, they started making mindful choices such as opting for healthier foods, practicing portion control, monitoring calorie intake, and striving to incorporate daily exercise into their lives.
While some women in the group have found these changes to be relatively easy, others have faced a more challenging transition. We have all been there, trying to focus on our eating habits can be tough and very overwhelming at first. Many of these determined ladies began with small steps and gradually progressed. Embracing a focus on nutrition became a lifestyle change for some, particularly those who often enjoyed dining out and vending machine snacks at work.
To address these habits, they started packing healthier lunches and preparing more nutritious snacks. One of the ladies has always enjoyed cooking, so this has been a fun way to make trying new, healthier foods and snacks a part of her routine. Another individual enjoys going to the Bluff Country Co-op to find healthier versions of snacks she enjoys. She was so excited when she found a healthier version of cheese balls! Yet another one of the ladies enjoy fruits and veggies for her snacks and adding a side salad to her meals for more nutrition. Each woman has found her unique path to healthier choices, making this journey show the power of gradual, personalized transformations.
The ladies are actively incorporating daily exercise into their health routine. One individual finds pleasure in staying active by swimming at the YMCA, taking leisurely walks, engaging in summer hikes, participating in bowling sessions, and playing basketball during St. Mary’s Buddies nights. Meanwhile, some prefer the convenience of using their in-house bike and treadmill to fulfill their exercise routine. Another creatively integrates fitness into her workday by walking laps in the hallways at work during breaks. Their diverse approaches to staying active showcase a commitment to incorporating exercise into their lives in ways that align with their individual preferences and lifestyles.
While the ladies enjoy sticking to their daily rituals, they also allow room for treating themselves on special occasions such as holidays and birthdays. When birthdays roll around, they enjoy making breakfast for one another. These celebrations usually include having cake and ice cream. Even in savoring these sweet treats, they remain mindful of portion sizes—a practice that has proven to be helpful in maintaining a healthy balance.
Collectively, the ladies find great satisfaction in embracing their newfound health routines. These routines provide them with a sense of purpose, and offer great goals to strive for. Reflecting on this transformative journey, Program Coordinator Shelby notes, “Each lady is on their own health journey with their own goals but we are all in it together.” This shared commitment serves as an inspiring reminder that, with determination, anyone can achieve their goals. A heartfelt thank you to the 1450 ladies for showing that success is within reach for everyone who sets their mind to it. Congratulations on your remarkable progress!