Courage & Change - A Reflection

Last week I attended a local screening of LUNAFest - short films by, for, about Women.  Our local theatre was full of women of all shapes, sizes, and ages - it was so great to see! Since Saturday was international women's day, it was fabulous to be in a room full of women celebrating women. 

The event consisted of 9 short films, all of which had great messaging and emotion coming through. A few of them stood out a bit more or spoke to me on a deeper level.

Granny's Got Game - having been an athlete most of my life and knowing senior/master level athletes, this one hit home because I loved seeing how competitive these women still were in their 70's and the camaraderie that they enjoyed with their teammates. It was also great to see that they were still quite active and loving the game; the all had their own challenges, but spoke of the time together as some of the best in their life.    

Flying Anne - a young girl with Tourette's syndrome and her struggle to manage tics, fit in, and explain herself to her classmates. It was quite touching when she said she wouldn't give up her Tourette's if she could, because it's part of who she is - to be so young and so courageous is amazing to me.

First Match - another sport filmed, but this time focused on a female wrestler in her first co-ed match. She was a great athlete and had to deal with her peers and her father's opinion about wrestling with the boys; that definitely took a lot of courage, but she stayed true to who she was.

I enjoyed all of the films, and the writers/directors each had a very unique approach to share their message. I just kept thinking of how women worry so much about what other's think, spend many hours (and their money) caring for other people (even strangers), and how we all have our own struggle, but it's only a struggle if we see it that way.

This year the theme for international women's day also fits with my interests: Inspiring Change.  The focus was on advancement of women, equality, and challenging the status quo. I work with clients on small changes they can make for their health and wellness, but on a large scale there is still so much to do around the globe to ensure that women get the opportunities they deserve. A change I would like to see is a change in how women view themselves - whether it be their skills, their looks, or their self-worth. I see so many women that are hard on themselves or trying to live up to someone else's ideals.

I continue to work at not comparing myself to others (that athlete competitiveness is always there!), and work daily to be the best me that I can be. I hope you can find inspiration to be courageous, be authentic, and be the best you!

Celebrate the women in your life everyday!
See quotes that inspire me on my Pinterest page.

Steph Langdon, RD
something nutrishus counselling & coaching
www.nutrishus.com

Happy New Year - 2012 Q's Day

I've been enjoying a bit of a holiday over the last week, but I'm glad to be back and I already have plans for some upcoming blog posts.  Since it is the first Tuesday of 2012 we are having the first Q's Day of 2012.

A new year often means new resolutions for many people.  I prefer to have clients focus on goals, and as you know I focus on long term health with my clients.  I mention this because often a "resolution" comes with immediate dedication, but falls away quickly.  Today I'll share some tips to stick to your resolution/goal, but I want to know...

What is your resolution/goal for 2012?
 
When it comes to goals, think SMART (specific, measurable, attainable, realistic, and timely) 

            Specific – what do I want to do? 

            Measurable – how much and how often will I do it?     

            Attainable – how will I do it?  

            Realistic – can I do it?   

            Timely – when will I do it?

Keep it small and simple (for example switch from 2% to 1% or skim milk, or pack and take lunch to work 3 days this week).  Look at unhealthy behaviours that you can change - this will lead to long term success (for example no more eating while watching TV or sitting at the computer).  Share your goal(s) with someone so that you are accountable to them and post your goal(s) where you will see them daily.  Plan a reward (non-food related) for when you succeed and then set another goal.  Many small goals lead to long term success.

Happy goal setting...
Steph Wheler, RD
something nutrishus counselling & coaching
www.nutrishus.com