Friday, December 14, 2012

A weight loss journey with Cinchspiration

6 months ago I began a journey along with 49 other bloggers. I have to admit I was nervous and excited all at the same time. Could it be that after 12 years I was finally going to make a u-turn to a healthier lifestyle? 


I couldn't help but think that finally I would fit into my trophy jeans and turn back time, have more energy to keep up with my very active kids and one day feel happy, confident and comfortable in my own body. After all I was 231 pounds and my body was aching for a change.


As my 34th birthday approached my family grew concerned for my weight, being active and changing my lifestyle. Specially since I want to be able to enjoy my life, I love living. I love being a wife and a mom, but how would I be able to enjoy all this at the weight and sedentary lifestyle I was leading?



As days went by I remember thinking if I would to stay on the program and not lose focus of what my body needs, specially in the summer time when we were scheduled to travel for a week and visit friends and family. To my surprise the first items to go in our luggage were my workout clothes, sneakers and cinch products! I felt proud of that and to have kept on track with cinch even after being close to all the comfort foods I loved. 

Each day a new opportunity to continue my path to a healthier me,  each second at a cross-path where I could choose to go healthy or to go unhealthy and continue hurting myself. The weather was perfect and the fact that my kids were out of school meant we could walk to school, go for a swim in the pool and at the same time have fun. 


My kids were getting benefited by me losing weight, after all they were enjoying a more energetic mother that now all she wanted to do is be outdoors and being on the move. 10 pounds lighter and feeling more and more motivated to continue. The difference between me on month two and me at the beginning of this journey is like day and night. I was the same person but so different in many ways. I was truly a work in progress learning new ways to achieve my goal. I learned that journaling would help me document my weight loss and also what I ate. Staying hydrated was my goal!



Never in my life did I think of myself desiring to be on a treadmill and sweat, burning off calories and even after a rough start as I gasped for air I was doing it less often. I was beginning to get my health back and getting up early to get a workout in before my husband left for work. Enjoying physical activity and sharing my enjoyment with my family with bike rides to the park, walks around our neighborhood one of my motivations to get out and move was taking pictures of nature or whatever I saw that would contribute to my interest. 

At twelve weeks on Cinch I was still losing inches and weight, but then as I began month four I lost my focus on what I was working on. I strongly believe that in everything we do in life we have to work on keeping it challenging and interesting because then we realize how much we truly want something and how hard we are willing to work for it. After all losing weight is not easy, I've heard many times that it is easy to lose weight but hard to keep it off. I have to disagree, for me it is equally challenging to lose the weight as it is to keep it off. Losing weight takes effort, focus, determination and a lot of patience. You can't lose weight magically. You have to earn the weight loss by making healthier choices.

I learned that when I'm tired I will tend to overeat, when I am reaching out for something to eat I first drink a glass of water and see if I truly was hungry to begin with or was simply thirsty. When bored food should not be the one to comfort me, taking a walk outside or putting some music to play and dance with my kids will keep me busy and comfort me and even help make new memories with my family. Keeping myself in check with activities to do will also help relieve stress. 

As days went by we were already close to the end of our fourth month when searching for some pictures for a friend I stumbled on a picture taken a year ago in November, back when I was making unhealthy choices, over eating, not moving much and a little depressed. I was not happy at all, inside I was hoping to find it in me to change but I didn't. Thankfully that day as I saw this picture I realized how much I've changed, I've not only changed my size and was now happy I also changed my lifestyle and my health odds.


I may look half the size I was from a year ago, but I'm only closer to where I want to be. Where I should be!

When losing weight we tend to look at the numbers and we realize we are only a couple of pounds closer to a healthier us. We begin to question where all our hard work is going to. We tend to look at how much we still have to go before we are there. Are we there yet? pops into my mind, constantly reminding me that I may be closer but I still have a long way to go. Why do we forget that we need to embrace change and look at how far we've come? We will always have set backs, speed bumps and detours in our weight loss but it is entirely up to us to continue on our mission, the one we are choosing.  

Making little changes in our mindset we allow ourselves to enjoy life to the fullest and live in the moment. Everyday thinking of what I've done to get to where I am, not taking changes for granted and giving myself credit was a continuation of my lifestyle changes.


Today I feel happy to look for ways to stay active and move, choosing to take the stairs instead of an elevator. Riding my bike and working out at least 3 times per week and on any given day getting up and doing squats or my new found love for ab crunches and jumping jacks. Which I couldn't do 6 months but now I can do with ease.



I had never owned work out videos and now I have 4 different ones, I pay close attention to my portions and drink more water than I ever had. My new found confidence has also inspired me to dress up in the morning and put on something "cute", last week as I attended an event I decided to wear heels after 8 years of always wearing flats.


All these changes motivate me to keep going and my family has also changed. My kids now love to "race" me as we are walking towards home or at the park, they giggle and laugh when we play kick ball at the park and ask for bike rides. For my toddler to be asking for broccoli today at the super market and my daughter to be asking if her meal is balanced is a blessing. My husband has been a great support system as well as my family and friends. I am truly grateful for this opportunity and the start of my weight loss journey.

I've learned so much these past 6 months, not only what I've mentioned above but I've also learned that I enjoy caring for my body and health. I enjoy these changes and I've embraced them. Every second of the day is a new opportunity to chose healthy, to be better and that no matter how tired I am exercising will re-energize me. I've learned that if I take a fall today, tomorrow I have a new opportunity to keep going and make it right. The best way to control my portions is to journal what I eat. Most importantly I've learned to believe in myself, because I CAN and I AM proof that losing weight is not impossible it is just a matter of finding your motivation and your will to get it done.



My weight loss goal 6 months ago was to lose weight, half way through the program I decided to set a goal weight and it was to be under 200 pounds. Today I'm closer, but have not reached my goal yet. At one point I admit I was a bit sad, but then again I remembered all I've learned on this journey and I'm happy with what I've accomplished and I plan to continue with my lifestyle changes, because like I said everyday, every second is an opportunity to make it right!

My start weight was 231 pounds, as of today I am 208.2 pounds... That is a total of 22.8 pound loss in 6 months using Cinch. 


I've gained self confidence, happiness and health.


A total of 25.5 inches lost!

I personally recommend Shaklee's Cinch Weight Loss program, because it works! It helps you start your weight and measurement loss and it also helps keep you motivated and inspired. One of the best features of this program is you begin to notice a difference in your size immediately and feel more energized and satisfied.

Through their cinch wellness page you setup your own account with your current weight, inches and activity level after entering all information it automatically tells you what amount of calories you should consume per day and what your portions of fat, carbs, protein, dairy you are allowed for those calories. The website also allows you to keep track of what you eat and how many calories you have left in your day, I loved that it will pair you up with a "buddy" so you have a great support system to cheer each other on.


Not only was the Cinch Wellness site very helpful for journaling, it has a couple of great recipes to try out that your family will love. The progress reports are always encouraging as you see the graph go down. Again remember that Cinch is a tool to help with weight loss, you have to work with it to achieve your goals.


I would like to take this opportunity to thank Shaklee Corporation for choosing me 6 months ago to be part of team Cinchspiration, it was a blessing for me and my family. Today I sit here writing this post with tears of joy of all I've accomplished for me and my family. My family for always supporting me and encouraging me in ways that kept me going. I also want to thank my team mates for always being there for me cheering me on and holding my hand when I felt I wasn't making progress, you are all amazing women! A special thank you to Sommer Poquette for being so inspiring.



What a difference a year makes! 



To read more about my weight loss journey with Cinchspiration visit my Weight Loss tab which also includes my video journals. 

This is a sponsored post as part of the Shaklee Corporation’s Team #Cinchspiration Campaign. I have received free products, online support and incentives for participating. All opinions and photos are my own. Results and experiences are unique for each person, so results may vary. People following the weight loss portion of Shaklee 180 can expect to lose 1-2 pounds a week.

52 comments:

  1. Maribel! Look at you! You look amazing!

    I'm so proud of you!! *hugs*

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    1. Thank you Krista, I'm feeling it :D

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    2. *hugs* to you too, thank you for always encouraging me on this journey together!

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  2. Wow lady, you look fantastic! Congrats and big hugs to you on your phenomenal success!!!!!!

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    1. Thank you Jenn! big hugs to you to and thank you for always holding my hand in this journey together. :D

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  3. YOU LOOK AMAZING MY FRIEND! You kicked ass and I'm glad you feel much better, here's to more continued success in all you do!

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    1. Thank you Xenia, I feel amazing and ready to kick some more! ;) I'm still not done, have to get to where I want to be under 200 and beyond!

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  4. You Rock!! Way to go Maribel!! I am proud of you!!

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    1. Aw Heidi, my friend and cinch sister. I'm so thankful for always encouraging me and supporting me, you've always been there when I thought I couldn't keep going... Thank you!

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  5. You look great!! :-) What an inspirational story!

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    1. Thank you Camille! That's why I'm sharing my story so that other people know they too can be healthy and live a healthy life.

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  6. Oh my gosh girl this is incredible!! You look fantastic! What an amazing job you've done, keep up the good work! What an inspiration you are!!

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    1. Thank you Natalia, I am still working on it. This may be more challenging with cold weather but it's all about making the right choices and thinking of being at a point where you are comfortable and your healthy shows it.

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  7. Your year difference photo is amazing! I am so proud of you and can't wait to CELEBRATE when you get under 200. Even though the program is over, I'm still going to be here cheering you on!

    Stacey

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    1. Thank you Stacey, I can't wait to be under 200. The day that number starts with a "1" I will be beyond happy! :D Yes we will still be in touch! :D definitely.

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  8. How wonderful! Congratulations!

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  9. Maribel, you look fantastic and I can see (and read) that you are learning about yourself and your own hunger (or emotional eating) cues.

    I wish you continued success on your journey. As a dietitian, it's great to see someone inspired, learning and succeeding. If your motivation ever waivers, let me know and I'll do what I can to help spark it back up.

    Go girl!

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    1. Thank you so much for taking the time to read my story and leave me not only a comment but offering support when I need it. I am still learning every day and hope to have continued success. :D

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  10. Oh you made me cry!!! You look great and I am so happy to hear of these life style changes for you and your family! It has been a roller coaster, I know but worth every second. Hugs!!

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    1. Aw Sommer! You are a great inspiration and you have always been refueling my inspiration and motivating me! It has been worth every second! :D Hugs to you too. :D

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  11. Wow!!!!! Seriously, WOW! That last photo shows a HUGE difference! You ROCK Maribel and you are doing an awesome job! So glad to have been able to meet you and go along this weight loss journey with you and the other Cinch gals. :)

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    1. Thank you! When I got dressed yesterday I remembered that a year ago I was at an event wearing that same top and a different size of jeans, that's when I thought I would add the image :D

      I too am glad to have met you and share this journey with you. You are all awesome and I truly hope we can continue in touch.

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  12. it has been such a fun journey to watch. You have grown so much as a person by going through this, and for the first time, in a long time, you've realized how much being healthy can change you as a person.

    There couldn't have been a better person for this journey, and it's been so fun to be apart of it with you. You looked absolutely stunning in Vegas.

    And if this is a goal of yours, I know you have the power in yourself, to not stop until you get there. It's great seeing how this journey has not only affected you, but started conversations with your family, and has taught the importance of a healthy lifestyle for your entire family.

    I'm long winded, but well, just had to share xoxo. Proud of you hun!

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    1. Thank you Jamie, and thank you for the Vegas compliment. I'm so thankful that from day one you have been supporting me and cheering me :D Thank you so much for that on going support. I truly do want to continue on this journey, I have learned that I can do it so I will :D hugs Jamie, you are a great friend and I'm happy we had the opportunity to meet. :D

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  13. Congratulations! You are an amazing blogger, woman, mom and CINCHALETE! So proud to have joined you on this journey! Can't wait to see where you go next!

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    1. Aw thank you Melanie, those were amazing compliments! and yes I am a Cinchalete and I'm happy and proud to be on this journey with you too. :D You are a great friend and were an excellent team mate :D

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  14. felicidades en realidad es de admirarse tus logros reflejan el amor a ti misma huhuhuhu te admiro

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    1. Gracias Cuñada, muchas gracias. Significa mucho para mi tu comentario :D Gracias por siempre darme tu apoyo y tu amor incondicional! Yo te admiro a ti, pues tu eres parte de mi ejemplo a seguir! :D

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  15. MARIBEL con mayuscula me encanta tu persistencia tu proposito de lo que necesitas tu templanza dentro de tu corazon esta tu poder y tu luz que es Dios te amo FELICIDADES!!!






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    1. Cuñada, muchas gracias! Tu siempre tan amorosa y siempre echandome porras! te amo! :D

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  16. Hermosaaa!!! que ejemplo de perseverancia....me da mucho gusto ver lo mucho que has logrado....esa constancia que muchos perdemos en el camino....eres un buen ejemplo..te vez genial!!! sigue asi....yo retomare mi camino...me das animo!!!! besooos!!! Dios te bendiga!!!

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    1. Cuñada de eso se trata, de darnos animos todos y apoyarnos. En equipo todo es mucho mas facil y asi al tropezarnos el otro nos tiende la mano y nos dice "arriba y adelante!" sacudete de tu caida y retoma el camino... Pues solo asi seremos sanos y el ejemplo para nuestros hijos pero sobre todo el amor a nosotros mismos! ;) te amo.

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  17. Well well well looking great . Love you it was the right time for you so happy for you , a new life and a long lasting one.. God bless you and keep you well.

    Love Mom

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    2. Thanks mom, I couldn't have done it without you my family. Your love and support! :D Love you mom!

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  18. You have had a very successful 6 months with Cinch. Regardless of how far you think you still need to go you have done a fabulous job to get where you are now. You are a great inspiration and motivator and I am glad that I got to know you through our Cinch journey together. I wish you much more success as you continue on to a healthier you.

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    1. Thank you Shanaka, I'm also glad I to got to know you :D You too are great inspiration. Cheers to more success!

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  19. Congrats in your success so far

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  20. What a thorough post! Congratulations Maribel! You look amazing and it shows! Your face is glowing and even the words in your post scream ahhhmazing!! You have been a great support to ME and I want to thank you for all your encouragement. Stay motivated! Good luck!

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    1. Aw! thank you! we all look ahhhmazing! and we are going to continue staying in touch and supporting each other :D

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  21. You have worked so hard for this. I am so proud of you. 2013 is going to be such an exciting year... I can't wait to follow you through it all.

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    1. My dear friend, you will always be there with me. In all the adventures I take :D sending you hugs Carolyn.

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  22. Maribel, you have been such a big part of Team Cinchspiration's success. Your sunshiney attitude and awesome progress has pushed me!

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    1. Thank you! I can't wait to see how you are doing ;) I loved our team! I still do.. :D

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  23. Congrats Maribel, super proud of you & what an inspiration you are!

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    1. Thank you Misty :D I found my inspiration and I won't let it go again!

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