It's not healthy!

Today when I was speaking to a friend, I mentioned that I needed new pants because mine have gotten too big since losing weight.  I showed him in the typical weight loss way; I pulled the pants out to show how big they are around my waist.  He surprised me by saying, “You have lost too much weight; it’s not healthy.”  I confidently replied that there are healthy ways and unhealthy ways to lose weight.  I have most certainly chosen the healthy way. 

In fact, it’s the healthiest way that I’ve ever lost weight.  I eat when I am hungry, but instead of reaching for junk food from the vending machine, I satisfy my hunger with fruits and vegetables.  I drink a lot of water throughout the day, along with some black coffee.  My typical exercise routine consists of a 30-minute run, four or five times a week.  In addition to my scheduled runs, I incorporate as much walking into my daily schedule as possible.  I get off of the bus one to two stops early, I take a walk on my lunch break, and rather than taking two buses home, I walk to the second bus stop. 

As I have mentioned before, I continue to eat cereal, bread, pasta and potatoes, although I take the extra step to measure my portion; I still go to restaurants, though not as often as I used to.  I look very forward to my work outs, but I no longer feel like I have to go running every day.  If I miss a day or two, it has zero effect on my ability to keep moving forward.  For instance, tonight, I am not going for a run, because my wife is meeting a friend for dinner.  No problem!  Instead of worrying about missing my run, I’ll make good use of my time and get some things done around the house.  

I owe it all to Running Without a Watch, as it has inspired me develop a healthier relationship with food and exercise.  Instead of counting calories, I measure portions and eat a lot of natural and home cooked foods; instead of obsessing about speed and distance during a run, I unwind from a long day and focus on the fresh air and breathtaking views.  Tell me, what could be healthier than that?