Thankful Doesn't Even Express It

Hello Fit Followers! I wanted to share this blog last week after Thanksgiving, however as always things get hectic and I run out of time. I don't know how it happens, but it always does. This post doesn't pertain to fitness or health, but it is so important.We often forget in our journeys of weight loss and fitness, that our mental state and state of mind is just as important. I am not sure I'll be able to express in words how I felt since last week, but I"m going to try my best.

Some of you know that during Thanksgiving we had a big snow storm here in New England and many families in New Hampshire, where we live, lost power for days. We lost power in late afternoon on Wednesday and when we woke up on Thanksgiving morning we were still out. Now we could have been upset, frustrated, or angry, however we weren't. Wednesday night my husband was able to cook dinner on our stove and in our oven because we have a stove that uses propane (I couldn't have been more thankful). We then sat at the dining room table beside our wood stove (again so thankful for wood heat) and played board games as a family by candlelight. When we awoke Thursday morning we were still out power, the boys at first were upset it meant no morning cartoons, however we quickly found ways to be entertained. We colored for a while before breakfast. My husband was able to cook breakfast in our oven so we took what was starting to thaw in our freezer and ate it for breakfast :). We made coffee in a pot on our stove, and packed all the items from the refrigerator in a tote and stuck it outside covered in snow to stay cold. After breakfast the boys headed outside with their Dad and helped him shovel and clean the walkway and driveway as I watched them through the window. I started to clean up the house the best I could with no electricity before heading to the in-laws for thanksgiving dinner. 

On Thanksgivng Day we could have all been upset to not have electricity, however it was the complete opposite. We stopped, looked around, and were thankful for the blessings the Lord has so graciously provided us with. There was no television, phones, or video games that took us away from each other. Because of the situation we were not only brought closer together, but we were forced to stop and see the amazing things we have in our lives ever day...our family and friends, a warm home, and food to eat. Today so much of our life is taken up by media, social networks, and our jobs and not enough time is spent and focused on our relationships and what is happening in the moment. What is important is the time spent with those around and with God. Looking at the amazing things in our world he has provided us with is so important. Being thankful and appreciative of our little, every day moments is something that is often forgotten in the hustle and bustle of our busy lives. This Thanksgiving I was able to stop and look around me and see just how lucky I am. I believe that was God's plan for that day <3

Later on Thanksgiving day our power returned, and when it did my husband and older son stopped and looked at me and said "We should turn the power back off". I just smiled and said a small "Thank You God" in my head. As I looked later that day on Facebook I saw many people post statuses saying how they were so thankful for friends and family that took them in for Thanksgiving, or how they were resourceful in cooking their Turkey dinners with generators or on their grille. This Thanksgiving many realized just what the Holiday's are about. Yes there were those people that were very angry and upset, however what does that do for you? It fills your heart and your days with anger, frustration, and resentment. I know we were luckier then some. There were people that didn't have the ability for wood heat like we did or propane stoves, and it made me appreciate what our little home has even more. But if we didn't I know that we are blessed with family and friends that would take us in and help us, and that is what fills my heart with love and happiness. 

Our lives are often so busy and we get caught up with many distractions and don't spend enough time on our relationships and inner growth. I often share on my Fit Mommy of Two Health and Fitness Page tips for exercise and healthy eating, however our personal growth and development is just as important. Keeping strong relationships with those around you helps you keep a strong self image, self confidence, and you are less stressed. Looking each day at the positive things in your life, such as your job, your home, the food on your table, and your family helps you appreciate what you have, but still gives you room to achieve new goals and work towards your future. God blesses us all with many things, and only gives us what he knows in life we can handle. Appreciate what you have, love your family and your friends, and know that you have many blessings. However, know that you can always continue to move forward in your life with your dreams and goals and continue to work towards them. Having something to work towards and goals to reach gives you hope for the future and keeps you from staying stagnant in your life. Love Yourself, Love your Family, and DREAM BIG!! 

What I am Most Thankful For

What I am Most Thankful For

Much Love, 

Chrissy
Fit Mommy of Two <3

*Lifting Each Other Higher*

It's been a little while since I've written a blog post. I've intended on writing one for a few weeks, but I have been so busy, it seems like time has been slipping away.I've been thinking of what to write about, but one thing that keeps coming back to me and pulls me through each day of my crazy, busy life is knowing and hearing from people that I'm working with that I'm helping them feel better about themselves. That the work I'm doing is making a difference in their lives, which in turn makes a difference in my life. When I first started writing this blog post I started writing about how I envision my future and how that helps carry me through each day. But as I was writing that, I realized that my future and what it will hold is effected by those people that are part of my present every day life. Since becoming a Team Beachbody coach I have seen many people, family and friends, accomplish goals they didn't think were possible. I've seen them start feeling more confident and proud of themselves. When I know that those I care about, or even those people I've just met, have been struggling with self confidence, weight loss, or their health and that I can help them it is something I truly enjoy being a part of. Over the past few months I can't express the joy it has brought me to hear friends and family say "I was told today that I look beautiful." or "I woke up this morning and ate a healthy breakfast and started my squats. I'm so sore I could barely walk down my stairs from my workout yesterday." I know that they are doing something that is making them feel better about themselves. I know they're doing something that is going to make them healthier, more confident, and happier. Being a part of that is truly the best feeling. I become like a proud parent.

A friend of mine had been training for months for her first 1/2 marathon. She recently posted on my running group page Run With H.O.P.E on Facebook "So now that I've had a few days to recover and reflect after the half..I really owe all of you a thank you! I feel like this group has helped me stay motivated and help hold myself accountable. You are all so wonderful and thank you for all the well wishes! I honestly never really thought I could do something like a half marathon..the whole time I thought to myself I gave birth...twice...I CAN do this!!! Chrissy you have been amazing and I always thought you were great to work with but it's been so nice to get to know you outside of all that. Thank you thank you!" Knowing that I've helped her and others regain confidence in themselves. Especially other women, is why I enjoy being a fitness coach. We as women often struggle with self-esteem, self-confidence, and self-image issues. Being a part of a group that helps motivate and inspire each other is truly....empowering. Being a part of groups that help raise one another higher and support one another is what this is about. Too often in today's society women struggle with how we are portrayed in media, but how we actually look when we see ourselves in a mirror or in photos. Too often women beat each other down instead of lifting one another up. I want to be able, as a fitness coach, to help other women find their inner confidence and see how beautiful they truly are. To start feeling more confident and better about themselves. Being a Team Beachbody Coach for me isn't about selling the products and making money. It's about helping other women find their inner self again. It's about women knowing that they are beautiful inside and out, but making their outsides match their insides to help them regain their own positive self image.

When I started my own Beachbody program I was feeling really down and discouraged. I was feeling like I'd never feel comfortable in my own skin. I wanted something that I could do at home that would fit into my busy schedule, but would help me become healthy, more energized, and confident again. To feel beautiful again. We as women deserve that don't we? Well it did that for me, and I now love that I can share that with other women to help them feel sexy, beautiful, confident, and healthy too. When I get messages like this from another friend and client of mine "Hey! Everything is going great! We are continuing the 21 day fix program. We are both feeling healthier after the first 21 days. We have really enjoyed this and have recommended it to a lot of people." It makes me so happy to know that I've helped others feel good about themselves, and that they are living healthier and happier lives. That women are starting to come together to help one another and to build each other up. That is what I do this for. That is why each day I send out messages and ask people to get involved. We as women need to uplift one another and help strengthen one another. We are truly the only ones that understand one another. 

Much Love, 

Chrissy 

Fit Mommy of Two Health & Fitness

A Week of Inspiration

For the past week I've been unsure of what to post for my blog. I've had so many thoughts flowing through my head due to last weeks annual Coach Summit where over 9,000 Team Beachbody coaches took off to Las Vegas Nevada. With all their posts flooding my Facebook news feed as well, as their videos of all the amazing happenings saying I was inspired doesn't even begin to explain it. My heart was so full seeing the positivity coming from all these people. People that I only know through meetings here on Facebook in private groups or through zoom calls in my coaching class I took. We've spoken through messenger and through commenting on each others pictures so it boggles my mind when I think of how these people have truly changed my life in a few short months when I've not met them in person, and I'm still getting to know them. With so much going through my head it's been hard to get a clear thought of what I wanted to share with all of you...but when I finally took a step back the other day and was talking to a coworker of mine that recently became a coach on my team it all came together. I had that "aha" moment as Oprah Winfrey likes to call it. (I think she probably trade marked that phrase). As I was telling her about all the videos I've watched, posts I've read, articles, and blog posts that have recently crossed my path all of them have had one incredible thing in common. They've all in one way or another encompassed one core theme. GOD. It's funny how he'll creep into our lives when we don't expect it. His lessons always seem to find a way to pop up. It's his little way of saying "I'm still here" or "I'm a part of your life and you'll always have me guiding you." For the past few weeks I've noticed more and more those people that are at the top of this business have stated time and time again that GOD has made a huge impact on their life. He's guided them to this business and to helping them make a difference in the lives of others. So for today's post I want to reflect on this. I want to share with you how I've found that GOD is always there guiding me in my path in life and how he's led me to where I am today. This is not something that I've always felt comfortable sharing with others, however I've heard time and time again over the past week how the only way we can grow and be successful in our life is by being uncomfortable. When we are sitting still, are comfortable, and stagnant we're not growing, we're not moving forward, and we're not achieving ultimate success. So I'm opening up today with you, and letting you inside a little, and sharing with you how GOD has led me here.

Since a young child I've always felt that when I "grew up" I would help people. That I would make a difference in the lives of others. That's always been deep down in my core and what I've truly wanted to do with my life. I've gone into teaching because I've wanted to make a difference in the lives of children, but for some reason it's not quite been enough. I decided two years ago to go back to school to get my Master's Degree and become certified in the State of New Hampshire so I could eventually work with student's with special needs because I want to help make a difference in their lives. Yet there was this nagging feeling that it's still not 100% where I should be. I've felt for a long time that I've been pulled in numerous directions. That my heart and soul is telling me that I'm meant for bigger things, but that as a mother I want to be home and want to spend time with my two amazing little boys that the Lord has blessed me with. I don't want to constantly be away from the working to just get by. As we all know in today's society so many people are working jobs where they have to be away from their family and spend less and less time "living life". Then that's where GOD comes in. I have always had my faith, and my strong belief that GOD will guide me to where I am meant to be. He has never let me down. In tough times he's always managed to get us through and he's watched over us when we've struggled. When a sorority sister of mine posted about Shakeology it opened a whole new world for me. I believe that day GOD reconnected us and brought us together to change my life. 

When I sit back and look at my life and look at the connections I've made with people it is truly mind blowing. People come into your life for many reasons, but I believe that we are all connected. I believe that each person is there to teach you something or to direct you down a new road to turn your life in a new direction. You just have to keep your mind open to the new opportunities that are being placed in front of you and trust in GOD that it will all be okay. I'm so thankful for that day that our Lord brought my friend back into my life, because as I look ahead I can see all the amazing possibilities that it offers. I know it's the right place to be because I can feel it in my gut in ways I've never felt before. I see the incredible changes that are happening for my friends and family. They are happier, healthier, and stronger then they've ever been. When I sit back and see the positivity, encouragement, support, and friendships that are given to others through Team Beachbody it is like no other company I've ever worked for. But what I've enjoyed most, and I feel is helping me grow more in my faith is the faith and trust I've seen people have in GOD. That he's guided them to this business where they are able to help others change their lives for the better. Where they are supporting and encouraging one another to reach their goals and dreams and to Never Give Up on their faith or their belief that they can live a happier, healthier lifestyle. I believe that I've been brought to where I am today for many reasons. I believe I'm here to strengthen my belief in GOD and to make my trust and faith in him a bigger part of my life. To not be afraid to talk about him or my beliefs with others because that is okay. I also believe that I've been brought here to help others reach their goals and dreams and to feel better about who they are and be comfortable and confident in their own skin. I am here because it is an opportunity that is going to help me live the life I want to live. It's going to allow me to spend more time with my husband and my children. It's going to allow me to finish my degree and help create more opportunities for special education in early childhood programs. It's going to allow me to have the financial freedom my husband and I have always wanted through a job that I truly and deeply love. I've always had Big Dreams but was never sure how I was going to achieve them. But today. Today I sit here writing this blog post with the utmost confidence that I now know how I'm going to make my dreams for my family come true. I have this strong faith and confidence because I've prayed so many times to GOD to guide me in that direction and I know now that he truly has. He's provided me the opportunity to not only give myself the life I want for my family, but to show other people that they too can make their Dreams and Goals come true. Next year I will stand on that stage at the Coach Summit in Nashville Tennessee with thousands of other coaches and not only have changed my life, but the lives of my family and friends. GOD BLESS <3

The New Me! This Could Be The New You!

Hello my friends! I hope you've all had a great week! So today I have a question for you. I want you to look inside of yourself, deep down and reflect for a moment. How have you been feeling? Are you just not feeling yourself? Are you feeling tired? Stressed? Overworked? Has your life hit a mundane routine that is just not fun anymore? Are you wishing you could get some life back and feel alive again. Have you been struggling with a weight loss journey where you've been trying to loose weight and get fit for months (or longer) but not seeing the results you want? Have you just had a new baby and want to get back to that prebaby body but you're not sure how to fit fitness and healthy eating into your diet cause your whole world has been flipped upside down? I know exactly how you feel! I have been there and I am there now! BUT the big thing is I was sick and tired of feeling sick and tired! I was ALL DONE saying "I just don't  have the time"...I was all done with putting everyone else before me. I realized that as a Mom, a Wife, a Daughter, a Sister, a Friend, a Coworker I not only owed it to myself to turn my life around, but I owed it to the others in my life to become a better me. I was feeling so tired and stressed all the time that I was taking it out on those around me, this wasn't fair to anyone. So I decided right then and there that I was done being a person I didn't like. How if I didn't like myself were others going to like me and want to be around me? I said that day, 11 weeks ago, I was going to make a change. I was going to do something to be a better me. It was time to focus on me and becoming that person I longed for. I wanted my life back. I wanted to feel strong inside and out. I wanted to conquer those goals and dreams I had of running again, of getting back the body I had before I had my two boys, I wanted to see the definition in my arms again, I wanted to see the muscles in my abs that I know are there, I wanted to fit into those favorite pair of jeans hanging in my closet. I wanted to be the person I once was that somehow in the midst of becoming a wife, a mother, and a teacher got lost. I was beginning to forget who she was. I wasn't happy anymore. I wasn't enjoying my life. I was getting frustrated and yelling at my boys every day. I was dragging in the morning and not wanting to go to a job I once loved. The passion I had for my family, my career, my life was gone. I didn't want to be that person. I knew that I needed to turn my life around and find that passion and love again before I started loosing what I have worked so hard for, what I once loved, what God had blessed me with in my life.

The day that I walked through my door and my husband said a package from Beachbody came I knew that was it. I knew that my life was mine again. I opened that box and couldn't wait to get through it to see everything! I wanted to rip it open and put it in the DVD player right away! The next morning I was up at 4:30 am to do my T25 workout. It was like Christmas morning, I was so eager to start this journey. As the weeks passed and I got up every morning to do my workout and make my Shakeology I began to feel the changes. I was pushing myself every day to the limit. I was sweating like I never had before. My body was sore and achy but as the days passed that went away. I KNEW it was working. I could not only feel it, but as each day passed I could see it. I was slimming down. I was seeing muscle definition, and my clothes were starting to fit differently. Then the day came I decided to finally step on the scale. I was so afraid to because over the years I learned to not weigh myself and compare myself to others. I always weighed more then friends that were the same height or size as me because I was an athlete with a lot of lean muscle. However, growing up that was hard to understand and I would beat myself up over it and couldn't get out of my head the thought that my body was unattractive. But I did it, I got on that scale, put my worries aside, and I had lost 10 pounds!! I did it! I was finally below the 150 mark and for me that was HUGE! I felt success, and boy was it sweet! This was working! This program was giving me the changes that I had wanted for so long, and I was truly loving it. I started feeling a new vitality. I had energy that I hadn't had in a long time, and I was feeling a passion for something again. I was feeling alive! 

Throughout the weeks I began to realize that this journey wasn't only helping me to get my old prebaby body back, but it was giving me so much more then that. It was giving me passion, it was giving me confidence, it was giving me a whole new life that I never expected. My relationship with my husband grew stronger. My friendships I have are finding a new life through sharing my story with them and helping them start their own journey to becoming a healthier person. I've reconnected with old friends and I've made new ones through the various challenge groups and fitness group that have supported me and motivated me in ways that they don't even realize. But most importantly I'm growing to love and respect my body. I'm learning to be comfortable in my own skin. I'm learning that this body I have is mine forever and if I don't love and respect it and take care of it who will? People think that Beachbody is just a company that sells fitness programs and nutrition supplements but it's not. When you get involved in this company it truly changes your life. When you get to the heart and core of this company you have a CEO that truly cares about not only his coaches but the people. Beachbody is truly a family of people that want to help support, encourage, and motivate one another to live a healthy life. They are people that are real every day people that have been right there where you are. They have gone through this journey too and they have conquered and overcome obstacles to reach their dreams and their goals. They all want to truly, with their whole heart, help you accomplish your dreams. I have NEVER been a part of something that has had so much passion and drive to want to help everyone around them succeed to their fullest potential. I have met people that want the best for me and my family and it has filled my heart and soul with so much happiness. It has motivated me to be a better version of myself. The best version of myself. Know that you can have that too!  You too can be surrounded by people that help motivate, encourage, and support you to reach your dreams! I didn't have the drive for a long time to change. I was sitting right in that same seat you are feeling tired, worn out, and unmotivated, but I took that step, I made that change, and so can you! Join me and I can help you reach those goals, I can give you that same success if you're ready to make that commitment! Make your life yours again! 

Much Love, 

Chrissy

Don't Beat Yourself Up...No One Is Perfect!

Hello my fit friends! I hope everyone is having a great weekend! It always goes too quickly for me. So this week I wasn't sure what to post. I was kinda stuck because nothing was flooding me with the urge to write. Then just now as I was standing in the kitchen with my son making him an ice cream cone and I took a spoon full of ice cream I had this twinge of guilt. Then I thought to myself as to why am I feeling guilty? I work out 6 days a week sometimes 7. I go running about 3 times a week between 3-6 miles. I eat healthy every day and never eat junk food. So why am I feeling so bad about eating 1 spoonful of ice-cream? Why did I feel so guilty when I had a small, and I mean small slice of pizza the other day? Then I thought about how various times this week I've seen many others posting in groups about how they fell off the wagon, or how they ate a cookie, or how they went out to eat with their children and had an ice-cream for dessert. We are NOT perfect. Nor do we have to be. There are things in this world, actually LOTS of things, that taste amazing!! Wouldn't it be awful if we didn't taste them sometimes? We are all working hard. We are all getting up each day pushing play on our DVD players to bust our butt for 25-45 minutes a day. We are putting on our running shoes and stepping out that door and onto the pavement to move our bodies and run one more mile then we did the day before. This is a lifestyle. We are not always going to be perfect. We should not always deprive ourselves of those delicious tasting foods. When we work hard every day burning calories, eating healthy, and watching what we put into our mouth we deserve to have that ice cold beer or glass of wine sometimes. We deserve to have a slice of that delicious pizza or cake at your child's birthday party if we want. We just have to do it all in moderation. We are learning to build a new lifestyle. A new way of living and being healthy. But we need to remember to not get angry at ourselves because we deserve a treat every once and a while. 

This isn't the only reason I've seen people posting that they're upset with themselves. I've also seen posts where you're upset at yourself because you didn't work out much during the week because you've been busy. We've all been there. I've been pretty bummed because I didn't run at all this week. The weather along with a busy schedule at work as well as other commitments made it a tough week for me. We can't get angry at ourselves every time something happens. We deserve to treat ourselves better than that. The fact that it is bothering you when you miss a workout or eat something that may not be the healthiest choice means that it matters to you. You are changing your lifestyle and you will stick with it. We all fall sometimes, but the most important thing is getting up and continuing on to reach your goals. Life will happen, and it will get in the way at times, just know that tomorrow is another day and you will do your best. Make that commitment to yourself that you'll do better the next day then you did the day before, but also accept that you are human. You deserve to every once and a while have that piece of cake, but the rest of the time make that commitment to stick to your plans, reach for your goals, because with hard work and consistency, you will make progress! 

Here is a video I saw this week. It is VERY inspirational and I hope you can take from it what I did. We sometimes may fall, but if you get back up and keep your goal in sight, you can achieve it. You can reach your dreams! 

What she did shook the entire crowd! Strength and Determination in Action!  

Why I LOVE being a Team Beachbody Coach!

Today I want to share why I truly love being a Team Beachbody Coach and how the last month has changed my outlook on life and made me a more confident and happier person. I know many of you by now are probably aware of this new adventure I've taken on, but probably don't know much about being a Beachbody Coach. I wanted to write today about all the wonderful things that it has brought into my life as well as the people I've met.  I also want to squash any misconceptions and thoughts that you might have.

 Beachbody coaching just fell into my lap one day. This isn't something that I sought out to do at all. I had started on my own Beachbody program to get back into doing something I loved which is working out, eating healthy, and running. After becoming a mom finding time to workout was hard. As a mom your always so busy doing things for your children that you are often pushed to the side and you tend to forget about yourself. You're always so busy taking care of other people that you neglect properly taking care of your body with proper nutrition and exercise. Well this is what I did. As a result of always worrying about my husband and my boys I was neglecting myself. I tried my best to eat healthy, but it didn't always happen. I was also not getting exercise and this was causing me to be extremely stressed, over tired, run down, depressed and having constant migraines. I hit a point where I finally said "ALL DONE!" I couldn't do it anymore. I was becoming a person I didn't like. A person that I said I would NEVER be. I was yelling at my children. I was getting depressed and sad and didn't want to go to work. My stomach was in constant pain from eating foods I shouldn't and because of that I was waking up every day with migraines. I had hit an all time low for myself. I was busy with so much between my home life, work, and taking online courses for my Masters that I was running myself into the ground because I wasn't putting the proper nutrition into my body or releasing the stress that was a result of my every day life. I had to do something. I had to start thinking about myself and my health. So in comes Beachbody. I decided it was time to focus on me too. 

One day while looking on Facebook my friend Lauren that I knew from my days at UMass had posted that she had some packets of Shakeology to share with anyone that was interested in seeing what it was all about. I messaged her right away and said I was interested but "What is this Shakeology". So she explained to me what it was and said she'd send it out. Well that's where it all began! I LOVED this stuff! It tasted great, and gave me a new energy, and was so easy to make. I thought to myself why not give this a try? I ordered my T25 Challenge Pack and started on my journey. I couldn't believe how I felt after a few days of drinking Shakeology and pushing play to do my workouts each morning. I was enjoying it so much and sharing my story and love for these programs with others that Lauren said "Chrissy you need to become a coach!". After discussing it with her for about a week I said why not. So here we are today! 

Since becoming a Beachbody Coach I have been so incredibly happy. I have found my love for fitness again and living a healthy daily life. I have become more confident in myself and have been able to open up to others and share this love I have through my Fitness page, Challenge Groups, and this Blog I've created. I am working out every morning and it's relieved so much of my stress. I feel stronger and healthier then I ever have from drinking my Shakeology every day for breakfast, and I've been reaching goals in my running and fitness that I never thought I'd be able to. I've been seeing and feeling incredible changes in my body that I was never sure I'd see again after going through two pregnancies and deliveries that brought me my two beautiful sons. However, what I have enjoyed more since becoming part of the Beachbody family, and it's truly a family, is seeing the way it is changing the lives of my friends and loved ones. I can't tell you how honored I feel that my family and friends have trusted in me to take the that step with Beachbody to change their lives. When they share in our Challenge groups that they have run their fastest mile to date, or that they are able to do a headstand in their yoga class, or that they've lost 6 pounds in their first week of their workouts, or that they ran a whole 5K without walking I want to scream from the rooftops with happiness. I am so proud of these amazing woman that are getting up every day and hitting the gym, going for a run, or pushing play on their DVD players to do their workout. They are making changes, they are becoming stronger, they are smiling more, and they are feeling AMAZING about themselves and their bodies because they are doing things they never thought they would. I've received messages from friends, family, and acquaintances saying that my blogs, posts, and fitness page is inspiring them to take that step to make a change in their life. That is has helped them to start running again, eating healthier, or get up and go to the gym I can't explain in words the joy that it gives me to hear those words. THAT is why I'm a Beachbody coach! 

It is so easy to fall into a habit, into a rut, where you just don't feel you can get out of it. We as woman are always taking care of other people and often forget that it is just as important for us to take care of ourselves. When we don't take care of our bodies, we are unable to be the best we can be for those people that we love. Since finding Beachbody and becoming a coach I have met so many incredible people that inspire, support, create, and motivate me and countless others every day to be the best selves we can be. I've never been a part of a company that is so focused on helping other people. That's what it's about. It's not about the sales that we make, it's not about pushing products on others, it's about finding a program that works for each person to help them start feeling better about who they are and how they feel. When you are living a healthy active life it changes your soul deep down. I am probably the busiest I've ever been with the responsibilities I take on every day when I wake up, but I'm the happiest I've ever been because I am able to help people every day feel great about themselves and in return I'm taking better care of me. Yes being a Beachbody coach is a job and it provides me with some extra money for my family and the company provides some great incentives and rewards to their coaches when you reach certain sales goals, however I can tell you that with all the coaches I've met their heart is in this to help others and see the accomplishments those people on their teams reach.They are here to inspire, uplift, and encourage people to reach their health and fitness goals. They are here to motivate others to get up every day and stay accountable in making healthy choices. Beachbody coaches are here to challenge you, to strengthen not only the body but the mind, and to have you push beyond your limits and reach your maximum potential. We are here to to help transform you into YOUR BEST SELF! This is why I'm a Beachbody Coach! I want to also thank everyone that has trusted in me and has taken a chance and joined me on my team. You are amazing women and I'm so proud of you. I know you are going to go far and reach goals you may have never thought possible. You are strong and you can do it! Stick with it every day, keep pushing play, keep taking those steps to run another mile, and keep making healthy choices and YOU WILL GET THERE! YOU WILL DO IT! Remember your toughest competition is you! Look in that mirror each day and say "I Will Win!"

Lots of Love, 

Chrissy 
Team Beachbody Coach

The More I run, the more I love my body...

This morning I woke up at 5:30 am and went for a run. It was the first time I've ever gotten up that early to head out before the boys and my husband woke up. I have to say, I will be doing this every Sunday morning. It was quiet in the house, just so peaceful. I started the coffee, got my running clothes on, and sat for a few minutes while I took a few sips of coffee. When I walked outside the air was crisp and cool. Just perfect for a run. I heard the birds chirping as the sun came up. I turned on my Pandora as I stretched and thought about my run. How I was going to move my feet. How I was going to place my strides, and how my breathing would be calm and even. And I smiled. I smiled because every time I run I feel stronger, I feel happy, I feel empowered. I thought to myself how when I was younger I never thought that I would become a distance runner. I was a sprinter. I ran short distances at full speed. However, when at track practices or meets I would always watch the long distance runners with admiration. I wanted to be like them. They always looked so strong. So graceful. So commanding. I would watch in awe. I wanted to have that strength, that stamina, that presence. Today I can say that I AM A DISTANCE RUNNER. I accomplished a goal a few years ago when I ran my first 1/2 marathon. When I crossed that finish line I cried. I cried with joy that I DID IT, but I cried because I proved to myself my body is strong, and my heart and soul are stronger. I did something I never thought possible. 
    As I started taking my first steps this morning I thought how when I first started my journey as a runner I would have a hard time breathing. I would often stop because my legs couldn't go any further and I had to catch my breath. But now today I can run over three miles without stopping, I can conquer the hills that used to conquer me. My feet move without thought, and I often forget how I got to the end. Today I can say I enjoy running.
   As I ran this morning I felt the crisp air across my face. The birds chirping. The sun was rising ahead of me and the road curved behind me as I ran each step. My stress and worries were released with each drop of sweat. The music played in my ears and the beat of the music drove my stride. I know some people wonder why runners enjoy running so much. I can say I used to wonder the same thing, but today I know why. I can run and enjoy the beautiful scenery the passes by. With each run I become stronger. I am able to release the stresses of every day life. The demons of my past melt away. I gain confidence and self assurance. I feel with each run that I am capable of more then I ever thought possible. I am in awe of what my body is capable of. I am a fighter! I AM A RUNNER! 

The sounds of the dam were so calming and relaxing this morning. I stopped and listened to the sounds of the water crashing and running across the rocks.

The steam rose off of the water this morning as fish and bugs jumped and splashed in the water.

The moon was still out when I headed out for my run.

This morning I took the road less traveled by :-)

   

My Mother's Day and The Importance of Family Support

       Hello Everyone! Happy Friday! I've been wanting to write this blog all week, but things were pretty crazy this week! I would start working on my post and then something would come up and I didn't get it finished. It's now Friday night and I'm finally getting the time to sit down and share with you about my Mother's Day. It was truly a wonderful day and it really could not have gone better then it did. The boys were very well behaved on Sunday, and all you other Mom's know that doesn't happen often ;-). Well at least it doesn't in my house, they seem to enjoy nagging, bothering, pestering, teasing, and yelling at one another...although that is what siblings do, I remember the days when I was younger and my three siblings and I did the same thing and drove my Mother crazy as well. Despite how often they argue they also love to play together, stick up for each other, and cause mischief together ;-). They are boys through and through and I don't know how I could ever love them more then I do already.
       Now I want to share about my Mother's Day not just because the day was so wonderful, but because it is about the support and love I have from my husband and my two little boys in this journey of living a healthier life, staying fit, and doing what I love to do. Since I decided to become a Team Beachbody Coach and make this change for myself to be healthier and more fit it didn't just change my life but it changed theirs as well. Having the time to run, workout, and make healthy meals is something I need their support in. It wouldn't happen without them. For me to do this they also need to change what they do at times so that I can have the time to do something that makes me happy. When I take the time to exercise or go for a run my husband stays with the boys which means he is not able to do something he may want to or need to do at the time. We have agreed since the beginning of our relationship that we will make it work because we are a team and we support one another in doing what makes us happy, what makes us a better person. When we are happy and working on our goals and dreams it only betters us as a family. 
    This weekend for Mother's Day we said no phones, no internet, it's going to be a family day. We went to a local farm just up the street and picked out vegetables and flowers to plant. We have wanted for years to grow our own vegetables and we said this year "We Are Doing It"!We got some Peppers, Tomatoes, Spinach, and Summer Squash. We got pots to plant them in so we could do container plants this year being our first year we thought it would be a great way to start. It was so wonderful spending the days with my boys outside digging in the dirt and planting flowers and vegetables. It was truly good for the mind and soul. The boys helped put the soil and compost in the pots to plant the vegetables, they helped dig the holes for the flowers, and enjoyed finding worms. They are so excited to grow vegetables that we can pick ourselves and put into our food. I'm hoping that by growing our vegetables it may help my youngest son Zachary eat more vegetables and try new things. 
    The reason I'm sharing this is because when you are deciding to make a change in your life to better yourself, remember you are not only changing your life, but you are changing the life of your family as well. To be successful in your journeys having the help, support, and encouragement from your family will make all the difference. Make them a part of your journey. Include them in what your goals are so they can help motivate you and help you stay accountable. Living a healthier more active life is something that is going to benefit them just as much as it's going to benefit you. By making them a part of your journey it's going to make it easier for you to stay on track. I love the mornings when I workout and my boys join me, or when my husband knows that I wasn't able to get in my morning workout he tells me when he gets home from work to go for a run because he knows how it relieves my stress and makes me happy. Yes you are the one that makes the choice to change your life, you are the one that looks in the mirror every day and has to be happy with yourself, but when you have the support of the loved ones around you it makes it easier for you to reach your goals. 

 

Stepping Out Of Your Comfort Zone

Hello Everyone! A few days ago my Mother posted this picture on her Facebook page, and it really stuck with me. 

I've always been the type of person that enjoys sports, working out, and fitness. I'm the type of person that is up early and is going, going, going all day doing something. When I was in high school I ran track, did high school gymnastics, and a private club gymnastics, as well as worked part time and attended school (obviously) so needless to say I was very busy. Being someone that is always doing multiple things at once and active I have always found it hard to understand those people that are not that way, or I guess I find it hard to understand when people often say they don't have time to take care of themselves. But then when i saw this picture the little light bulb went off in my head....people don't want to be uncomfortable. They don't want to step out of their comfort zone so they make up reasons why "they can't". The time isn't going to just be there, you have to make that time. There is always something else that you are going to be able to do, but you need to remember that you need to put yourself first, because it's going to make you a better person, which in return is going to be better for your family. So your probably thinking get to the point... When people make excuses or say they don't have the time to exercise, go for a run, or eat healthy foods, it's because it's not Comfortable. In our world today everything is geared towards comfort...but being fit and healthy isn't something that is "comfortable". It's work. It's hard. It makes you push yourself to your limits physically and mentally. Your body will be sore and achy. Your muscles will be tired and screaming at you sometimes from you working them hard. But you need to remember it's worth it. You are making your body stronger. You are making your body healthier. You are working your mind, body, and soul to be the best it can be. The best things in life aren't easy and they aren't always comfortable. If you think of your life with your family or best friends your relationships weren't always "comfortable". At times they're hard....they're really hard, but when you push through those difficult times and you make it to the end, those bumps in the road were 110% worth the journey. 

So what I'm getting at is this. To make that change in your life whether it be to loose weight, eat healthier, or check something off your bucket list it is not going to be easy. It's not going to be comfortable. It's going to be hard...DAMN HARD...BUT it's worth it. You're going to have to work at it every day. You might have to get up before the sun is up so you can get in your workout before the kids. You are going to sweat. You are going to be sore. You are going to have to grit your teeth and fight the urge to eat that chocolate chip cookie fresh from the oven. But when you do that. When you are icing your legs and popping some Ibuprofen because you ache walking up those stairs you need to remember how rewarding it's going to feel when you take that measurement, step on that scale, or take that after picture and see the changes. Yes you're going to have to give things up at times, yes you're going to have to put mind over body and push yourself, but isn't it going to be worth sacrificing that comfort to better yourself? Isn't it worth taking care of your health and your soul to be a little uncomfortable sometimes? Step out of that comfort zone. Make a change. Do it today, because you are worth it! YOU MATTER! 

~Chrissy

Team Beachbody Coach

Setting Goals! Don't Be Afraid To Dream Big!!

Hello Friends! Happy Wednesday! You're half way through your work week! That's always exciting :-) Today I want to discuss setting goals for yourself and dreaming big. This is so important not only in your journey to a healthier and happier you, but in all aspects of your life. Imagine if you never set goals for yourself.Where would you be? You often probably don't even realize that you have goals that your working towards. For example wanting to remodel your house, working for a promotion at your job, or something as simple as cleaning your house and washing that pile of dirty laundry. Those are often things you know you want to do, but may not consciously think about because you are in autopilot and moving through your daily motions. Without goals we wouldn't get too far in life. They are what drive us. Goals are what makes us have something to look forward to. It's that finish line at the end of that long race that you have thought of every mile you cross. If you think about it you've set goals for yourself ever since you were a child. When you were a baby you wanted to crawl and then you wanted to walk so you could play with the big kids. Goals start with those simple little milestones and work towards the bigger ones in life. We learn to ride a bike then eventually drive a car. Each goal has small steps you take before you reach the big ones as you work towards that final finish line. 

I want you to think about your goals. What are some things in your life, not only in your fitness journey, but in your life that you want to accomplish? What is something that you've wanted to achieve for a long time that you haven't yet? Lets write those down. When you write down your goals and place them somewhere that you can see them on a daily basis it solidifies them. It makes them real. It holds you accountable and you're going to work harder to reach those goals. A great way to do this is to make a dream board. Write down, post pictures, and make a list and put it there. Write down those steps, that road map, on how your going to reach those goals and accomplish your dream. Look at it every day and work towards reaching those goals. Those DREAMS are yours! You CAN DO IT! When it comes to your fitness journey you need to have your WHY. Why do you want to do this? What are you working towards and WHY is that important to you? Have you always wanted to run a road race? Have you dreamed of running a Half Marathon? Well write that down! Have you gained a lot of weight over the years and want to fit back into those jeans sitting in your closet? Well take them out of your closet, hang them in your room and look at them every day. That is motivation! That is your WHY! You need something to strive for, something that pushes you every morning to get up out of bed and WORK for. Is it that your kids are running around and want you to play but you don't have the energy? Well get up every morning, put in that DVD, and push play. YOU CAN DO THIS! It's your time, it's your day! Take that first step, write down those  goals that you want to accomplish! And DREAM BIG. MAKE IT HAPPEN! Not tomorrow, but TODAY! It's YOUR DAY! I'm with you and we can do it together! 

Much Love, 

~Chrissy
Your Team Beachbody Coach 
-http://www.beachbodycoach.com/clocke116

Small Steps...It's The Little Things

I want to share with you all a little about my run yesterday. On nice days I will often go for a run on my lunch break. Working as a preschool teacher I can have EXTREMELY stressful days. For some reason this year has been a pretty tough one with some of the children I have, I often say they're lucky I love them so much ;-). They can truly wear me out, so I will go for a run to clear my head from the morning stresses to be ready for the afternoon when the wake from rest. Yesterday was a perfect day for a run. The sun was shining, the air was cool, and there was a little breeze, but just enough to keep me from sweating and overheating. It was truly perfect! 

As I started my run I had a little assignment for my coaching class to take a video of me being active to share with everyone. So I started by videoing what I could of me stretching, (it's hard to video yourself lol), and then off I went. When I started running my feet hit the ground in a rhythm. A cadence began. My breathing quickened, and my heart started beating faster. I no longer had to think about moving my feet, they just did it on their own. Katy Perry was singing in my ear and all my worries and stresses began to melt away. My mind started thinking about all the things are going on in my life. I truly feel lately I'm  in the best place I've ever been in. I'm happy, I'm enjoying my new career venture that I'm able to share with so many special people in my life, and it's helping me to feel refreshed when working with my preschoolers every day. I began to think about how I've been able to help my Mom and how she's feeling the happiest, healthiest, and strongest she ever has and she's smiling every day! That in itself is enough! I thought about how I've been able to reconnect with old friends and make new ones and how they are trusting in me that to help them reach their health and fitness goals and to be the best version of themselves. As I ran a smile began to cross my face because I realized how blessed I am and how thankful I am to God for giving me these amazing opportunities. Opening this door, taking this small step, has lead to all of these wonderful things. How trusting in an old friend has brought me some amazing opportunities, but has also brought happiness to those close to me. I realized that when we at times have to take a chance and step out of our comfort zone, something that is not always easy, we are opening a new door that can bring some amazing change into our life. I've always trusted that what is meant to happen will, I just have to keep plugging on and not giving up.

 What I love about running is that I don't have to think about what I'm doing. That it gives me time alone to process all the things going on in my life, and when my endorphins kick in it releases all the stress that tends to build up. It brings me clarity but it is also something that provides my body with strength and health. Running is a great metaphor for so many things in life. Each small step you take brings you on a journey to a bigger adventure. You cross paths, and conquer hills, and even mountains. You can run a smooth path at times without any bumps or potholes, or you can run rocky, bumpy trails, that may at times get muddy. However, in the end each small hurdle you cross eventually brings you to the top of that mountain, across that path, or through that mud, and in the end you reach the end of the journey. When you cross that finish line and you look back you realize how you've made it through every obstacle. It may not be easy, it may be super hard. It may even have been the most difficult path you've ever run, however, YOU DID IT! You conquered each step. In the end you are stronger then you were in the beginning. Each run makes you stronger. It makes you a BETTER YOU. So as you take that first step in your new journey. As you think about your goals and what it is you want to achieve to be happier and healthier. Know that the journey is long, it's not easy, and you may hit obstacles, but each small step you take brings you to that end. It brings you closer each day to that finish line, and you can do it. You can reach it. You just have to remember to take each step. Each opportunity that crosses your path because it could bring you some amazing changes in your life that may not have been something you ever planned or thought you would do. But it can take you around that corner and bring you to a happier more amazing life that you never expected. Just think about it :-) 

Have A Great Saturday! 

Much Love, 

Chrissy

She's Super Woman and She SHINES!

So today I want to share with you a story. This story is about an incredible woman that no matter how she is feeling has always been there for me and my siblings as well as my children. No matter what is going on if we needed her she is there. She is one of the strongest woman I know and even though she has battled with depression and eating disorders and her own self image she has always done all she can to make her children feel that they are priceless. That they are strong. That they can accomplish anything that they set their minds to. She has always made sure her children know that we can depend on her, however always struggling inside with the feeling that she is worthless, not good enough, and not strong enough. This woman is my Mother. I want to share her story with you today because we've all at times in our lives felt this way. Whether it's something we've struggled with for a short time, or something we've struggled with our whole lives, I want you too to know that you can change this. You can take a step to feel better about yourself, about your body, about your life and you don't have to do it alone. There is a way that your life can change if you just trust in yourself to take that first step and know that you are worth it. That you deserve to shine! Here is my Mom's story. 

"I just want to let you know how good I feel and to thank you for introducing me to Shakeology! This product has made me feel so amazing and the effects are immediate! I have been on antidepressants off and on for years and no pill has given me the boost in my overall feeling that this product has. I started thinking that it would help me loose weight and didn't anticipate what has happened. I have had body issues and eating disorder issues all my life to the point where I got to 100 lbs and still felt I wasn't thin enough and more depressed than when I started by starvation journey. Buying the store and eating all the bakery products led me to gaining over 50 lbs. I was at my 9 month pregnancy weight and felt terrible! I gradually lost about 20 of it but still felt terrible. The thought of getting into clothes other than baggy T-shirts and sweatshirts was scarry. If i had to go somewhere and wear something nice I felt terrible until I could get home to change. The thought of shopping for an outfit was filled with anxiety....I could feel the fat on my body and hated it! I start seriously the beginning of April to begin yet another weight loss quest. It was tough but I began recording everything I put into my body. Still wanted to eat more and and still craved the junk food. Then I was introduced to this program and figured why not. I am so glad I did! I have been drinking the shakes for a week now and have done the workout video a couple of times and am running again. My running has improved alone with my mood...Ok maybe it's the shakes???? I've lost a pound and inches since starting the shakes..ok no big deal...but this morning I have a class to go to and need to dress properly...a little anxiety growing ....but to my astonishment as I got dressed I felt great to be out of the baggy tops! I feel great! Its not the one pound because my body hasn't changed yet really its the overall well being that I feel. Not only do I feel that I will begin to finally for the first time love my self and my body, but actually conquer this cloud of depression I have had all my life. Even the customers at the store can't get me down!!!!Thanks Chrissy for helping me!!! I Love you" -Posted on My Facebook Fitness Page Chrissy Locke-Fitness and Health

Know that you can make a change in your life. You don't always have to feel the way that you do. If you feel depressed, run down, stressed, dealing with anxiety, there are ways to change it. There are things you can do and people that can help you feel better about yourself and smile again. YOU ARE WORTH it! Take back your power, re-claim your life, and SHINE!! 

~Much Love 
Chrissy

Being Vulnerable

Happy Sunday Fit Friends! Today I want to open up a little to everyone, which is NOT easy, but that is why I'm here. I want to let you in a little to know me better. As I mentioned in my first blog post, I came to Beachbody because I had hit a point where I was done with being at a standstill in my health and fitness.I'm training to run my second half marathon this Fall and I was frustrated and getting very discouraged because I wasn't seeing progress. I had also been dealing with digestive issues and intense stomach pains that my doctors weren't sure where it was coming from. Once I started doing T25 every morning and drinking my Shakeology it's like my life changed in only a few weeks. I almost don't believe it. But what I want to tell you is because of that I want to share this journey with others. I want to open up to you and bring you my story in hopes that it will help you. We've all been there at one point or another when we feel that all the work we put in is getting us no where. That we keep giving and giving and giving and nothing is being given back in return. Now I'm not saying miracles happen in weeks, but you will FEEL the change. The results we see come later. However, I think feeling different is the key here right? Feeling more energized, feeling happier, smiling more, feeling ALIVE again. We all hate dragging ourselves out of bed in the morning and pushing through a day, because all that creates is frustration, anger, and in the end being depressed. Beachbody has allowed me to feel alive again. To be happier and less stressed. So I've created my "like" page on Facebook as well as this blog to share my feelings with you as well as the journeys of my family, friends, and others that have joined me and shared their stories with me to also bring to you. PLEASE comment here on my blog as well as my "like" page to share with everyone your story. It's those stories that touch lives, that make a change for someone. I'm feeling very vulnerable through this and a little afraid at opening up to you all, but if it can help others like you that is what I'm trying to do. I'm hoping that by opening up to you that you will trust in me that I can help you reach your goals for a healthier, happier life. 

Much Love, 

Chrissy 

How Beachbody became a part of me

I want to start my first blog by introducing myself and letting you all know who I am and what brought me to starting the journey I'm on and bringing this blog to you. I've always been someone that enjoys being fit and healthy. Growing up as a gymnast and running track in High School, fitness and healthy eating is something I truly enjoy and have a passion for. I love helping people that want to do the same in their life. I'm sure you've all seen the infomercials on TV about Beachbody and their workout DVD's. I saw the infomercials for P90X with Tony Horton and had borrowed the workout DVD's from my sister-in-law. I had them for about a month when she asked for them back. They had worked for me, but not as well as I wanted because I didn't have all the right equipment and as a Mom of two boys the 45 minute workouts were very long. At the time I had just started my Master's Program online and was very busy with late nights of homework, working full time, and taking care of two busy little boys (as well as my husband). I had then decided to try Shaun T's "Rockin Body" workouts. I bought them because they were on sale and I thought they'd be a fun way to get in exercise. So I would do workouts in the morning when my boys were sleeping and could manage to drag myself out of bed. Even though I was very determined to get back in shape, I was finding it very difficult because I just DID NOT have the energy. I'd fall asleep at night trying to do homework, drag myself out of bed in the morning, and be frustrated often with my children do to stress. I knew working out would help with the stress but I was finding it difficult to fit it into my busy schedule as well as have the energy. I just had to find something to change this!

Now fast forward to about a month ago. I had been going to the gym on my lunch breaks at work because I was determined to get myself in shape to run my second half marathon this Fall. I had been going a few times a week and was getting discouraged because I wasn't seeing any changes. One afternoon I was on Facebook and an old college friend posted that she had samples of Shakeology that she was giving out. I instantly messaged her and said tell me about these! I want to try! So she mailed out two samples to me, chocolate and strawberry, and I made my shake the very next day. I was excited because it tasted so yummy! I wrote back to her and let her know, so we started talking and I ordered the T25 DVD's as well as the shakes. I started them as soon as I got them and couldn't imagine the differences I was noticing right away! I had more energy, my digestive issues were gone, and I was feeling happier! Could this really all be from these shakes I'm having for breakfast? The T25 workouts were just what I needed. I was sweating and huffing and puffing in just 25 minutes and in only 5 weeks noticed my abs coming back and that I was slimming down. The soreness in the first week was insane, but IT WAS WORKING! I had gone to the gym for months and didn't see these changes I noticed in 5 WEEKS! This really works! 

I had been telling friends and family about it and they wanted to try it right away, so I was sending friends to my coach, but she said "Chrissy you've just got to be a coach. You are getting them interested from your experience, why don't you help them, you are such a motivator!" So that's what brought me to Beachbody and becoming a coach. 

I can't express the life changes that this company has brought me to in such a short time. I am happier and healthier and helping people feel better about themselves. I'm helping people make positive changes in their lives and it feels great! The fact that in only 3 days my mother has noticed ailments go away that has been bothering her for years is truly a miracle. I couldn't ask for a better gift! 

So now here I am, I want to share this journey with all of you! I want to try to help and inspire others to make these positive changes in their lives by sharing my own journey as well as the journey's of my family and friends that have joined me. The people I've met are truly inspiring, supportive, and motivational. I can't express how Beachbody can truly change your life. Please read my blog, ask questions, comment, and share your story with me! 

~Chrissy