A quick guide to become a Fit Mommy!

A quick guide to take that first step towards being fit!

Now don't we all want to lose weight and stay fit. And if you can achieve that without breaking a sweat won't it be the icing on the cake. But that is not going to happen.

Losing weight and keeping the weight off is definitely a challenge especially if you're a busy mom,  but its not impossible. With the right balance of diet and exercise you can always achieve your ideal weight.

1. Lets take a look on how one can lose weight through a simple excersise schedule:

-Choose the right time to workout either it's early morning or before hitting the sack, which ever suits you but stick to it.  

-The best way to lose weight is to burn more calories then what you consume ie to create a calorie deficit.  Eat in moderate and burn more by increasing your physical activities. 

-Few of the best ways to lose weight and get toned is a High intensity interval training, brisk walking and swimming.

2. A quick schedule to lose weight effectively:

-Start your morning with a 30 min brisk walk. 

-In the evening take a 45 min HIIT class or an aerobic class.

-If you have the energy go for a 15 min walk or a 30min swim before dinner. 

3.The secret of losing weight is to maintain a balance of diet and exercise:

-Plan your meals ahead so that you don't end up binging on forbidden foods.

-Eat more vegetables and add more fat burning greens like broccoli in your daily diet.  

-Consume more Fibre and nuts. 

-Fruits like blueberries and cranberries have antioxidants that help your body clean all the toxins and melt fat as well.

-Drink a lot of water and green tea.

4. Adopt a positive outlook:

- Apart from eating right and exercising you need to also keep yourself stress free.  - 

- Mediate each day for few mins.  Keep calm, take your required snoozes daily. 

- Join a yoga class to help you learn how to eliminate stress and develop a positive outlook.

Losing weight is a challenge which can be  achieved by thoughtful eating and a effective workout 5 days a week.  Also it's important to keep our mind healthy and think positively.

All the best to a healthy happy lifestyle!

Supermommy's Battle of the Bulge!!!

My ongoing battle of the bulge!!

Bulge would be the understatement of the year! My weight as always been in the vicinity of 58-60 kgs and it stayed that way with a good workout and some conscious healthy eating.

Everything was going fine until Boom! I peed on a stick and it turned out to be positive.....of course it wasn't an unplanned one, hubby and I had been planning to get pregnant and it was one of the most happiest moments in my life and to think I would feel that way standing in my loo of all places.

And so I was pregnant and ignorant to the fact that my life was gonna take a 360 degree spin....I mean I thought then its just a baby, I mean how bad can it possibly get right?.....( well now I'm typing this very sentence with a screaming attention seeking toddler who's making a mess of the entire living room). Hahaha was I in for a reality check.

Well I m gonna save that story for some other time....right now I just wanted to share my story about my weight gain and weight loss ( yes in the end I did lose some)!

So on my very first examination I remember clearly weighing 60kgs and I felt the ideal weight gain is 12 kgs and I think if I'm 72 I'm sure I can lose it at my pace post pregnancy and hey what is the big deal....I'm pregnant there's a living being growing inside me that should vouch for some extra brownies ( quite literally.... ain't those yummy).

Hence after my 3 months of severe morning sickness....I was back to actually being able to look at food and even started craving for it with vengeance. So an extra plate of chicken wings here and an extra plate of creamy pasta and pizza there.....I had bought myself a golden ticket to Fattynation.

On the day of my delivery I weighed 84kgs making it a total weight gain of 24 kgs in 9 months.  Well my baby girl was born and  weighed 3.43 kgs and every other issue or problem  just vanished and all my mommy duties started immediately. I lost weight initially but  eventually I saw myself  at 82 kgs once again. 

Life was all about breast feeding, diapers, calming a colicky baby at 3.00 am with no sleep in the last 24 hours was excruciatingly challenging and mentally  draining. Losing weight was not on the agenda at all.

I don't actually remember when I got serious about losing weight but I do remember the reason, it was for my baby girl....I felt the best gift I can give her is a healthy fit mother who can take care of her every need and not give an excuse to not be able to run outside with her or take her swimming or cycling and that's when it happened.

I took part in my first marathon the "Bengaluru Midnight marathon" after only one month of walking ( ya i could not run because of my weight my ankles would ache) practice. I ran my 1st 5 k within 50 mins and that was huge a achievement for me. And I never looked back since then. I have been running marathons ever since and completed another 2 more and also did a crazy Skyscraper dash where I ran up 830 stairs up the World Trade Center in Brigade Gateway which I did  in 11 mins. I started working out 3 times a day at this amazing place in Jayanagar, its a HIIT class and you got to believe me it works. The first few days was a huge challenge...I would curse myself for doing this but I'm glad I did.

It's  been 10 months since the day I ran my first marathon and started my workout journey....I have found a new me, a new drive, a new motivation....to be healthy to claim my body back, its not just about the numbers on the scale but I care about my endurance, a strong core and a having a good stamina and of course a healthy body weight.

And it's just the start.....

(PS: just in case you did wanna know the number.....I lost 10-11 kgs in this duration and I'm all set to push the next 10 kgs ).

If you find yourself in the same situation.....just remember you can do it....don't give up and fight for it, no one can help you but yourself.

Excuses never got anyone anywhere!!  All the best....

Do subscribe to my blog to keep you abreast in my journey towards my next 10kgs weight loss!


And how can this story be complete without a before and after collage right :) !!!!! And a pic of the certificates of my marathons till date!! 

Chocolate Pancakes shaped as a butterfly!

Hi,

Sharing a link to a recipe I wrote for babypregancycare.com, it's an awesome recipe to try out for your kid.

Have fun cooking! And let me know how it comes out and what the lil food critic says about it.

http://www.babypregnancycare.com/chocolate-pancakes-kidstoddlers-recipe/

Re-invent yourself mommy!!

'A loose fitting pant or leggings teamed up with an even horrendous top that seen worse days of motherhood and hair tied up in a dead ponytail or a lifeless bun' ...does this ring any bells fellow mommy.

It did for me, up until recently I decided to get my ass of this style rut and get this mommy into the land of the living fashionistas ( read celebrity mommies).

Time is the elusive one for any mommy...if given more time a supermommy can accomplish so much and more, but we are unfortunately gifted only 24 hours in a day...so apart from the regular chores running after rambunctious toddlers and trying to maintain some amount of sanity its a herculean task to even think of spending time on oneself to look good.

Through my experience I learnt that it is possible ( hell yeah it is- when you can find a way to get a screaming sleepy  toddler strapped into a car seat anything is) if one puts their mind to it and keep in mind these essentials. 

1. Pack up those maternity clothes-

I know they are super comfy and you would sleep in them if no one objected but you ain't fooling anyone with those ill fitted clothes, give them away or just pack them away till you are crazy enough to have another kid

2. Flab to fit

With the mommy clothes out, its now time to deal with the real issues. Many mommies go thru a lot of weight issues and with that extra flab its tough to fit into anything, well enough said try to get some amount of actual exercise or workout into your day at least 3 days a week, this will definitely help in keeping extra piles finding its way onto your hips and also help you burn the existing ones.

3. Fake it till you make it-

Obviously you are not gonna lose kilos overnight but you can still get your body to look slimmer by faking it.  The greatest gift to womanhood (ie after Robert Downey Jr, Bradley Cooper , Ryan Gosling.... list is endless) is Shape wear. Investing in good lingerie and shape wear can give your dwindling self esteem a huge boost, a push up bra and a high waist panty can add tons to you confidence.

4. Shop intelligently-

Pick essential items that suit your body type also keeping in mind functionality remember you have that toddler at tow all the time...so I would stay away from the low rise jeans or deep necks. Give importance to the fit, If organised ahead in time then chances of you getting out of the door like a battle worn solider will be less. You can
always make a list of ensembles for different occasions and stick that up inside your
cupboard that will help you during crunch time.

5. Accessories Accessories Accessories-

Nothing like a simple statement necklace or nice sandals to compliment your look. You don't need to go all out but buy them in colours that will go with most of your outfits...ex nude colors. Ditch that diaper bag for a much stylish tote or even a bag pack that's made its come back

6. Less is the new more-

For a mommy pressed with time applying makeup doesn't make it on the to do list, but with some clever thinking one can look like a million bucks. Nothing does it better than a foundation & loose powder to get that even tone a generous amount of kajal some lil gloss or lip balm and voila your good to go.

7. Relaxed mommy= Happy Mommy -

Not everyone is lucky to hit the spa but if you can then please do, from body massage to facials and head massages can take away loads from a stressed out body physically and mentally.

8.  Snooze time-

Sleep like time would top any mother's wish list but it being fulfilled is like scoring a 100 on a literature paper. But try to get your daily dose of    cat naps which helps the brain and body to relax and reenergised.

9. Cut the negativity-

End of the day you're a healthy mother of a healthy baby, be happy and think positive. Being a mother is highly stressful give a pat on you're back for getting through it everyday!! 

A mommy's take on Maybelline's new glitter mania nail lacquer!!!!!

Hi,

Let me be honest I love make-up, So what if your a mommy...you still have a life!! Even if you aren't going anywhere outside these boring 4 walls and your toddler is trying to get the worse outta you.....relax deep breaths distract your kiddo with anything that will get you a couple of minutes "ME" time (my strategy was a nursery rhyme DVD...the minute that cd went into place...the screaming stopped and the singing began :) )

And that's how I got myself to try this out and here goes my take on Maybelline color show glitter mania nail polish in starry nights.

Now who isn't crazy about glitter nail polishes, there is something in it that just lightens up any outfit.

Since I am always busy and find it hard to get out of home to so my shopping with my restless kiddo, I kinda do most of my makeup shopping online, at least those items I regularly use. Last week Nykaa.com had an awesome sale and this Maybelline nail polish was a part of my makeup haul. I am crazy about black and obviously picked up the Maybelline Color Show Glitter Mania Nail Lacquer 603
Let’s get down to the details -

Product description

It is your usual round stout Maybelline nail polish bottle only the labelling is a bit different There is nothing much on the bottle except for the label Maybelline color show glitter mania and the ingredients details.
But on their website this is what you'll find -
'Color Show Glitter Mania range is every nail-art lover's dream! When applied, these sparkling nail colors deliver a 3D shimmering effect, adding oodles of style to your tips. They also have a unique sand-textured effect that looks and feels great on your nails. With 8 glittering nail color shades to choose from, you're sure to find the perfect shade for every mood'.

They also claim it to be-
Easy to apply
Flat brush
Glossy finish
Chip resistant
Runway inspired colors
Maybelline Color Show Nail Lacquer would be a great addition to your make up kit. The bold, glittery colors and the creamy texture would make it an instant hit.

Price
For a 6ml bottle it is competitively priced at Rs 125 ( but I got it for lesser remember the discount on Nykaa.com)

My experience with Maybelline Color Show Glitter Mania Nail Lacquer 603

    Maybelline Glitter nail polish applied over plain black nail polish

                                          
As soon as you take a look at the glitter polish inside it will make you go weak in your knees. Maybelline never ceases to impress me, the first coat looked a bit dull but then second coat down voila! It looked really good. The consistency is slightly thick but it glides well on to the nails.
The glitter as they quoted does give a 3D effect and has a sand texture to it. On my other hand I experiment it over Maybelline color show blackout 220, this look absolutely gorgeous. It really works well as a top glitter coat also.
I'm sure fellow mommies know what goes on our daily routine, from cooking to endless tasks centered around your lil one its obvious that with these Herculean tasks to do, our nail polishes won't last for long. But that wasn't the case here; if you apply a top coat then the glitter polish stays on for days and is indeed chip resistant.

Pros of  Maybelline Color Show Glitter Mania Nail Lacquer 603

True to their claim it does have an amazing 3D look of the glitter once applied
Pricing is fair
8 to die for shades
Chip resistant and stays on almost a week when worn over a plain colour and a top coat.

Cons of Maybelline Color Show Glitter Mania Nail Lacquer 603

If you don't like you polish rough than the sand texture may not go well with your taste.
Not that glossy as they say it to be
It loses its sparkle after a few hours and tends to look a bit dull especially if worn without a top coat.
Be ready to use up a lot of nail polish remover to get off your nails, also it doesn't wipe off that easily, you will need a strong nail polish remover. 

Would recommend or buy again?

Yes, I will definitely buy it and the other 7 shades as well. It's a must have.

Mommy's Rating

4/5

Articles by mommy on Momjunction

Hey all,

Below is the link to my articles on momjunction.com, I am quite happy to write on topics I find interesting!!!

So do check it out!!!

http://www.momjunction.com/articles/author/nandini-aravind/

Lesson of life I learnt after becoming a mother!!

Before you I had all the time in the world, now there isn't even time to take a break or look at the clock.

Before you  hours weren't enough to get ready or pamper myself, now a quick ten minute shower minus the blow dry is a luxury.

Before you travel to exotic locales was the highlight of my life, now a trip alone to the departmental store is my sanctuary.

Before you I was a shopaholic, latest trends were my haunt, now if I can wear my clothes on the right side I consider myself lucky.

Before you  I was adventures and free spirited, now I calculate the pros and cons of all the decisions I make even topics like if I should go to the loo leaving you on your own.

Before you life was simpler yet somehow empty & vain , now life is complex yet breathtaking & purposeful.

Before you I was a just a woman seeking an unknown  aspiration, now I'm a Mother who's aspiration is to only see you be the happy and content.

I gave birth to you but you  gave birth to the MOTHER in me!

This article as been sent for the contest at Momjunction.com
http://www.momjunction.com/contest-for-moms/

Essential tips on preparing for a first 5k

1. Be realistic- If you’re an example of ‘couch potato to 5k’ then take it easy give yourself at least few months to train before your actual run.

2. Eat right - Its important to eat a balanced meal and to give you body what it needs to sustain such an physically taxing activity, drink lots of water during and after a run to avoid dehydration.

3. Gear up- No flat heeled shoes or any old sneakers laying around your doorstep, invest in a good running shoes, it's essential to have the right clothes as well as running tights or shorts, sweat absorbent tees and good fitting sports bra ( a regular bra is a huge no-no).

 4. Take it easy..ish- plan a simple routine with a distance goal in mind and work from there increasing the distance, forget about timings you are probably not going to be first but it's not about winning its the fact your committed to doing something new.

5. Don't get nervous- Try not to panic on the day when you feel you can't run no more ask yourself why are you doing this in the first place and push yourself .

6. It's ok to walk/jog- You don't need to run it you can always walk briskly or jog.. No one Is going to judge you...it's about completing it.

7. Go to the loo- make a dash to the toilet before the big run, the pre- race toilet ritual is a sight to see, well you'll never see three thousand odd people standing in queue for the porta pottys now will you!! 

8.Enjoy Yourself- the experience on the whole is amazing, so many people running together for a common goal. Strangers cheering on the sides, take it all in. And the best part of it all is when you see that yellow finish line just forget everything and give it all you got.

9. Stretch it out- Don't stop moving even after you crossed the line, stretch you calves, hips and quads, it will be sore for the next few days...what did you expect you just did a 5k. 

10. Make it a habit- if you liked the experience then make it a part of your life, if you dint well you can always walk/jog/ run at your leisure. 

A mommy’s first 5k-Why I did it & How???

Life as we know it for a new mother is all about  issues from  breast feeding probs, diapers & diaper rashes,  to no sleep ever and to top that up thanks to the hormonal havoc there is the constant emotional roller-coaster that a new mommy goes through, from image insecurities to “Am I being a good mother” to what not. 

Motherhood not only gave me the cutest baby but also the piles of fat that just doubled to my dismay thanks to the ‘no workout’ put across by my Ortho since I had developed severe calcium deficiency and it was bad for my knees. So here I was a new mommy learning how to live a new norm struggling to find anything that could fit me in my wardrobe and then one day there was the epiphany ...the biggest gift I could ever give my daughter is a healthy fit happy mother and It had to happen now. 

I have always dreaded the gym..never been a loner when it comes to workouts...I'm a group kinda gurl...Aerobics, Zumba and Dancing as always been my  mantra, I love the energy and enthusiasm in a group exercise. It's still not clear to me why I decide not to do what I always loved but to challenge myself to something out of the box...maybe I wanted to come out of my comfort zone and my mundane life ....and voila there it was, in my mind I could see those big fat letters MARATHON ???

Knowing that I would back out from it eventually because at that moment it sounded drastic for person who hasn't done any "actual workout"  unless you consider lifting my baby, cooking cleaning and other household chores a workout ( which I do like so many other mommies) I quickly moved that butt and Googled the next marathon and bought my ticket, that's how the Bengaluru Midnight Marathon 2013 became my next focus apart from the dealing with a toddler with temper tantrums. 

The Preparation :

The  Midnight Marathon in my city Bangalore was in December and I had a good ole two months to prepare . It had been months (whom am I kidding) actually years since I had a decent workout, due to my weight and knee problem I couldn't even walk a km without getting out of breath or having  pain in my knees and heels. So first things first I realized that I would have to take my calcium & vitamins regularly if I was going to succeed in this. There had to be a change in food habits as well…you can’t put a cheesy chicken burger or pizza inside you and expect your body to run a 5k. It's all about eating right as well. 

So supplements- check, balanced and healthy food- check, I was now good to  go.

Geared with my Nike running shoes, I decided to take it slow. First I did only brisk walks covering only small distances,  I just kept the pace up and as the weeks progressed the small walks became longer stretches covering at least 1.5 to 2 km. I started feeling quite confident in a months’ time I was doing 3kms without feeling tired. I remember never actually running a 5 km during my preparation it was always a brisk walk or a jog, I did what I felt my body was comfortable doing and went by my instincts. I prefer the jog/ run technique versus just running entirely.

Preparing for the 5k was like my ‘Me time’ away from my mommy duties listening to my favorite songs and walking with purpose I felt in peace,  I felt…healthy.

Judgment Day:

On 14th Dec 2013 I finished my first 5k in 50 mins…it was exhilarating the fact I did it and actually finished it within an hour I was proud of myself . It was tiring especially after the 3km mark, my legs started to feel heavier but it was mind over matter and the training that rescued me. 

 I went into this thinking it was a one-time challenge but on 23rd Feb 2014 I did my second 5k in 40 min at Pinkathon Bengaluru. For me running a marathon became more than losing weight but to push myself from the ordinary!!! 

Well this mommy is now hooked on to it…my eyes are already set on my next one....many ask me why do you run….I simply reply why don’t you run???