In the book today is yet another rest day! However, I rested yesterday, and I also had an amazing night’s sleep! I don’t always sleep well, but after spending so much time in the fresh air and sunshine over the weekend; I slept like a baby! Chris has included some sleep hacks on this page, only one of which has worked for me – breathing exercises!
I do not want to dwell on the health issues I am facing, but briefly I was diagnosed with Long Covid in January 2022 after spending Christmas in the hospital. I also have diabetes, controlled with insulin, and have battled with my weight for many years. Whilst I have never been sporty, I have always walked, and love swimming. Since my diagnosis I have challenged myself to walk more and recently joined a gym to try to rebuild some muscle. But one of the symptoms of LC is something called Post-Exertional Malaise (PEM). This means that over-exerting myself, physically, mentally or emotionally, can bring on a worsening of all the other symptoms and can put me in bed for a couple of days. It is mainly a physical thing for me thankfully. But it does mean I need to pace myself.
My Heroes challenge last year was 3 long walks around lakes in the Lake District and definitely had an effect. So this challenge will be paced and measured, based on building up my stamina and strength for CarFest. But I also know that losing some weight will help me with this.
So, this week I am going back to basics. Starting with nutrition. Something Chris includes in his book, of course.
This weekend gone, we had visitors and on Friday night we bought fish and chips from our favourite chippy. Has to be done – we live at the seaside after all! It was absolutely delicious, but boy, did I pay for it on Saturday morning. The level of inflammation in my body was so high. We rarely eat fried food, but it served as a reminder for me to get back to eating properly.
Confession time. I often skip meals, and my favourite snacks are buttered toast and cheese!
But here is my breakfast today. Lovely Greek yoghurt (Lidls is the best!), blueberries, and a small banana with a teaspoon of honey and a sprinkle of cinnamon. Requires very little insulin, is good for me and tastes delicious! Lunch will be tuna and butter bean salad. Supper will be my husband Nigel’s brunch as I have a university tutorial this evening!
Baby steps. Building blocks. Onwards and upwards!
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