A Lifestyle Change was in Order

M. Celeste invited me to walk/jog with S.T.A.R.S. this past summer. I came 3 Saturdays and became a member. Everyone has been very supportive.One Saturday, Mit asked if l could ride to Chicago with her. She suggested that l participate but l was apprehensive, however, l walked/jogged anyway. I've been addicted every since.

I work with Alzheimer's/Dementia and Hospice clients which can be emotional. Fitness alleviates my stress, anxiety and frustrations and replenishes my vessel. I've lost, gained and maintained for several months only to gain it all back. It had caused depression and l began to shy away to things of importance.

My Doctor wanted to start a script for high cholesterol, diabetes and increase BP med. A lifestyle change was in order....stat. I began with exercising and drinking smoothies. Shortly, then after l started with a personal trainer which lead to boot camp and running. I've lost 40 lbs., cholesterol has decreased by 18 points and my A1C is in a normal range.

Exercising whether it's running, swimming or strength training; it enhances my mood. Physical activity is a necessity while striving to be fit for life.

Thank you,
Dawn A. Davis
S.T.A.R.S. MEMBER 
2016

GRABB'S 4TH ANNUAL FINALIST RECIPIENT...

Grand Rapids Area Black Business (GRABB) announced its The Black Bottom Community Builder Finalists November 2016. This award recognizes individuals, groups or organizations that works tirelessly, passionately and collectively to help make our community a better place. On November 18th the award will be announced at the GRABB 4th Annual Black Market Awards Banquet. The finalists are Linc Up, S.T.A.R.S., and Life Quest Ministries. 

CONGRATULATIONS S.T.A.R.S. - SISTERS TAKING ACTION REVERSING STATISTICS on this remarkable recognition!

The STROKE didn't STOP ME!

There were times when I could walk/run  during scheduled times.  With work and you all being on the other side of town makes it hard.  But I don’t stop meeting the S.T.A.R.S goal and what we stand for.  Between Zumba and walking at work (stairs are killing me J) I’m still doing what I can to represent S.T.A.R.S. 

Who else but God would have made it possible for a person like me to be at death's door with a stroke , paralyzed, battling Ulcerative Colitis,

I Am Not Perfect!

I am not perfect, but I try daily to start over and get it right. There are days where I give my all and days where I don’t give enough, but the key is that I don’t give up. No many how many times I fall short, I get back up and keep trying to get it right. This life of health is necessary and serious because I want to live a long, healthy, and prosperous life. This can only be if I take care of me in the midst of taking care of everyone else (meaning my husband and two boys). They’re a handful, but I am learning that I must take care of me in order to take care of them. We are all moms, spouses, sisters, aunties, godmothers, and daughters to someone but it is necessary for us to be selfish at some point in the day and give to ourselves. For me, that is setting the clock to get up and do some form of physical exercise while everyone is sleeping. If I don’t do it then, it won’t get done. Most days I don’t want to roll out of bed (like today), but I get up and get it done.

Involve the Kids in your Fitness

For the moms out there with cable, did you know that there is a fitness channel for On Demand Subscribers? Well maybe you did. Do you use it? You are already paying for it. Also, I have recently discovered that there is a YOGA Jr. channel with free 8-11 minute work outs for you and your little one. My kids have fallen in love with Yoga and I love it! Try it. What a great, calming and relaxing way to put a little one down for a nap. Who does not enjoy good sleep!?!?

Also, what a better use of the remote control right? (that was for my couch potatoes) Get up and Get moving, incorporate the kids. This helps them value the benefits of exercise and healthy habits. If the mom is well and healthy, then all is right with the world right? :)