Monday 20 August 2012

What it means to be overweight




I had originally been writing another blog about the final week before 12wbt starts but this got me thinking about what being overweight or obese really means. (I did tell you I can go off on tangents sometimes J )
I often forget about the health issues associated with obesity- I get caught up with the ‘superficial’ aspects of my weight. You know- what size clothes I fit into, how I see myself, how society views me, my lack of confidence, how could anyone want to be with someone my weight, and the list goes on and on and on. And sure these are without doubt catalysts for needing to lose weight but certainly not the most important ones- well not when it comes to my physical health. The state of my mental health is debatable- depending on whom you askJ.
In our looks-obsessed society, lots of people think that being overweight is an appearance issue but it is so much more. At the grand age of 26, I don’t think of myself as invincible but I have never taken into serious consideration the impact my weight could have on life expectancy or quality of life. I didn’t see health issues such as heart disease, stroke, diabetes, certain types of cancer and osteoarthritis as a high risk of being presence within my life. I might not currently be in the situation of wanting to bring children into my life but I can’t imagine having this choice taken away from me ; plus if I don’t give my mother grandchildren she might end my life anyhow J But this is what being obese carries into my future.
When you combine the health issue with the appearance issues of being overweight it’s not hard to see why finding negativity in so many parts or all of our lives come naturally.
Now before this blog turns into a pity party for the choices we/I have made to get to this point, I think we need to congratulate ourselves. Not because of the past but because of the future. Because of the difficult decision to be brutally honest with ourselves and make a positive impact on the future via 12WBT. Of choosing to not only look great but feel great both mentally and physically. To the bright light at the end of the tunnel that is being the best self that you can be.
As the 6 day countdown begins; wave goodbye to that old future and embrace the journey to the new one.

3 comments:

  1. So true, Casey. Love the pic as well as your thoughts. Hope your journey is filled with bright lights and that you can look back on these words and say, "I did it".
    Good luck for a fabulous 12wbt and keep that positive outlook.
    Kathryn

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  2. Casey, keep that positive mindset throughout the journey and you will be fine. When you start to feel down and we all do just remember why you are doing it.

    Great stuff.

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  3. I love your blog. Would love to follow your journey.
    Niki.

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