Mind over Matter - or something to that effect

[Sky King]

So after my Dad died in December I gave myself "permission" to "just be" for a bit. I have still been doing my work outs but became a fair weather biker and if beer was offered I have cheerfully accepted. Today I finally braved the scale - yup, as my clothes can attest I have gained weight. What is so strange - in my perspective - is I have mentioned this to friends and they say "you look great" which is such a cop out - IMO The little angel and devil that sit on my shoulders are in quite a battle. "I am such a loser, now I have to lose that weight all over again" Angel - "no I'm not, it isn't any big deal, it's only five pounds, focus and it will be gone by the end of May"

On top of that, part of the clothes not fitting right is muscle gain, which I know I am supposed to celebrate but the old body image issues creep into my brain. Again - "the angel says - pants are tighter because your behind is firmer and has taken on a new shape" Devil says "nice try, fat ***"; Angel "Shirts are tighter because of those new pecs and shoulders" Devil - "is that back fat bulging out from the bra"

Okay hope this has given some of you a chuckle. I am officially back to tracking what goes into my mouth, upping my riding - of course it is pouring rain today and steering clear of brew pubs - Oh did I really just say that!

Update in a few weeks - wish me luck

[IBrakeforPastry]

Wishing you luck, and yes, you did give me a little chuckle

P.S. Listen to the angel.

[ny biker]

I imagine your friends are just trying to be supportive. Sometimes we just don't know what is the right thing to say.

Good luck with the renewed focus, and with the little devil.

[shootingstar]

I wish you luck and just cycle every day. Don't dwell on the little devil.

(Same here, it's about 4-5 lbs. gain too.)

[OakLeaf]

Don't forget that in the northern hemisphere, especially as far north as you are, natural sunlight has a big effect on fat gain and loss over the annual cycle. Listen to the angel - the one who tells you that you're beautiful as you are right now AND tells you how much better you feel when you eat right and get outdoors - and I bet you'll be just as sleek as you want to be by the time the solstice rolls around.

[GLC1968]

Don't forget that in the northern hemisphere, especially as far north as you are, natural sunlight has a big effect on fat gain and loss over the annual cycle.

Is that true? I'd never heard that but I know that you aren't the type to just spew un-researched facts! That might make me feel a bit better about the lack of true fat loss progress I've experienced since October (even though I've been diligent). I've personally recommitted myself to working on the last 8 lbs this spring...so maybe the lengthening days will help!

Sky King - you've got this! Tell the 'devil' to shut it.

[ridebikeme]

Thanks for sharing Skyking; it certainly did make me chuckle. However, that chuckle is based on the fact that I am in the same situation as you; an injury that has lasted far too long kept me off the bike quite a bit over the winter.

So, I'll use your email to motivate myself, and here's to hoping that we both get what we want.

[Sky King]

Thanks all, We can do this! Seems my approach this week hasn't been drastic changes but more awareness of what my food and drink choices have been. Had a big birthday celebration for friends on Friday but other than that I have done relatively well on the food. Our 40 mile ride yesterday got cut to 20 due to a nasty rain/hail storm but at least I got some riding in. Off to Monday morning workout!