Total Workout with Health Improvements* Runner Up Winner

Amy M.

*Health Improvement: fatigue, thyroid issues, neck pain

The 60-Day Challenge this year is the continuation of a journey for me. I participated in the challenge last year, and my focus was consistency. I really felt like I got a good jump start on things with the challenge and then I was able to attend the retreat last year, and it was wonderful!!! I really received so much valuable information, as well as just enjoying the whole retreat “experience.” After the retreat, I stayed consistent with my workouts throughout the year…usually 3-4 times a week, but sometimes only twice a week if it was a busy time. Unfortunately, due to thyroid issues, I still struggled to lose.

A couple of years ago, I was diagnosed with Hashimotos, an autoimmune disorder that affects the thyroid and causes hypothyroidism. I had been taking Armour thyroid for about 2 years and things were pretty much under control, but around March of this year I ran out of my prescription for my thyroid medicine. The doctor I had seen previously is in Houston, and I now live in the Cincinnati area, so I began searching for a doctor here, but had a really hard time finding one that would prescribe Armour for me. Finally last month, I found out about a doctor here in this area who is an MD but who utilizes a more natural approach, and he prefers the Armour thyroid. I have an appointment with him next month, so look forward to that. However, during the last several months, my thyroid issues have really come to the fore. During this challenge I had my ups and downs. Some of the symptoms of Hashimotos are extreme fatigue, swelling of the joints, and severe joint pain, as it mimics the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis. I’ve been battling all these things, and I’ve found that the combination of Basic Workout Plus and Step Away the Inches really helps when I’m feeling especially tired and in pain. I know that I must also carry a lot of toxins in my body, because when I do the total workout I sometimes feel really sick to my stomach, but then I start to feel better afterward. Another issue that I have is neck pain, and it has gotten much better. One move that I love to use to help my neck when it is hurting is the head rocks. I can just feel the tension releasing when I do them. Something else that has helped immensely with my neck pain is a tip from last year’s retreat. The trick of rolling your shoulders back and down to tighten the lats and lift the ribs has really helped me! Before, when I would try to tighten my lats, I’d end up tightening my neck instead, so I was just adding to the problem. Utilizing the correct form has allowed me to really help my neck pain diminish, plus activate the correct muscles.

I would absolutely love to be a winner this year, as Mary Shomon is going to be one of the key speakers. She is so knowledgeable about the thyroid, and she writes in such a way that it makes sense. I would love to have the opportunity to hear her speak in person and maybe meet her. I would also love the opportunity to experience the retreat again this year. It was such a blessing last year, and I felt like I gained so much – friends, knowledge, relaxation – I could go on and on! It was definitely the highlight of my year!

In conclusion, I feel like the challenge this year provided me with the motivation to press on in spite of how I may have felt any particular day. I’m pleased with my overall results, so I’m very glad that I participated. Of course I would also love to be the winner and have the opportunity to attend the retreat again this year!