Do you use Timehop or look at those “memories from x years ago” on Facebook? I have mixed feelings about them. I’m pretty content in life right now, but sometimes it shows me memories or a time in my life I’d rather not remember. It reminds me of things that have changed, and friends that have moved away.
And, on a more vain note, sometimes it reminds me of how I used to look, and that I don’t look that way any more.
Tonight, I went to a SUPER fun Surfset class (sponsored by Good Thins crackers, which are delish…I may have already had half a box), and this afternoon, I was looking for a picture from my past post about it to send to a friend.
I found this picture. To be frank, I don’t look like that any more. I’ve moved on from the flared yoga pants, but I’m just not as lean/thin as I was then. Blame it on a slowing metabolism in my 30s, not having the willpower to be as strict as I was then, whatever. I won’t lie: I saw this photo and was a little wistful I don’t look like that right now, and I felt a little down about that.
But then I went tonight, and had an amazing time. But beyond that, I could feel how much stronger I’ve gotten in these past five years since I last took this class. It wasn’t easy by any means, but I felt a stronger core (it’s hiding under there, swear!!) as I held planks and lunges on this VERY uneven surface meant to mimic actual surfing.
I remember my legs AND the board quivering last time as I struggled to hold my balance, but save for a split lunge move at the end, I kept the board mostly stable without too much effort, which is definitely due to improved core strength.
Would I rather be thinner than I am right now? Sure. But being a lot stronger is a pretty damn good consolation prize.
Love this so hard. xx
well the 2017 braids are a clear win. i love them!!
Stay strong. Stay happy. Congrats on every indication of a happier and healthier you. We are all on this road and it is long, winding and bumpy. We’ll manage it a lot better if we link arms and support each other! You go girl!
Theodora — I have those same thoughts! I see those old photos and think ‘god I used to be so thin.’
But then I think about what my body can do right NOW and I know back then, when I was nothing more than skin & bones, it couldn’t handle the workout I put it through today.
Yes, my body’s heavier on the scale and the pants are a few sizes higher but I now realize my body NEEDS those extra pounds and a bigger pants size to hold all my muscle! I was so proud of myself in a BodyPump class today when I easily held myself up in a plank through an entire song and years ago, thin little me would have shaken and quit within a minute.
Strong is STILL the new skinny.
metabolism really does just fall off a cliff in your 30s. strength gains are a way better trade off though.
Really enjoyed reading this detailed guide and practical insights! For anyone exploring creative styling tools, photo editing, and AI visual design, AI Clothes Swap is also a fantastic resource worth checking out.