Lifestyle

When Measuring Up Leaves Me Falling Behind

I have recently finished reading (for the second time) a book called Why Her? 6 Truths We Need to Hear When Measuring Up Leaves Us Falling Behind by Nicki Koziarz.  This book has really opened my eyes and made me think about comparison in a different light. From the lives of two sisters/wives from the Bible, Rachel and Leah, Nicki brings up a lot of great points about the pitfalls of comparison .

Why Her? 6 Truths We Need to Hear When Measuring Up Leaves Us Falling Behind by Nicki Koziarz | lookingjoligood.blog

Here is a little overview of the contents of the book:

“If success is defined in the eye of the beholder,
who are you letting behold your success?

Nicki Koziarz is confronting the comparison question: Why her? 

Through two striving sisters in the Bible, Nicki uncovered six truths’ we need to hear when trying to measure up leaves you falling behind.

These six truths will help you:

·      Stop staring at her success and find satisfaction in yours.

·      Find contentment with your life without being complacent in who you are becoming.

·      Gain godly wisdom to answer the Why Her silent question of your soul.

Someone will always be ahead. But that doesn’t mean you’re behind. Because Truth, like always, will set us free. And free women don’t have to measure up to anybody. Not even her.”

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Here is an exerpt from Truth three: You Don’t Always Have to be Okay:

Yes, it’s okay not to always be okay. But it’s not okay to NEVER be okay. That’s not what God wants for us. He needs us to know he’s a good God who has good things for our lives. In fact, He wants us to be more than just okay. His word is filled with so much power and authority, with so many examples and clear statements of His goodness. It is good to say, “God is good”, but it is better to know God’s goodness.

When we’re in a position of not feeling okay, there’s a time to climb out from under the bed covers. I know it’s where we feel like staying sometimes, but if we want the breakdown to lead to the Breakthrough, we need to get up and actually go through it.”
~Nicki Koziarz

Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering; (for he is faithful that promised;)
Hebrews 10:23

Hebrews 10:23 | lookingjoligood.blog

 

If you are like me, and for that fact most women, you have probably found yourself at one time or another stuck in the trap that comparison sets.  I highly recommend you read this book by Nicki Koziarz.

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Lifestyle

The Very Best Snapshots of Life

Why is it that we compare our very worst to the very best of the snapshots of life that others post? 🤔 I don’t know about you, but I’ve been guilty of doing it! 

Lord, help me today to be grateful for all that I have and not let comparison steal my joy!

Stop Comparing Yourself! | lookingjoligood.blog

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Lifestyle

Feeling Overwhelmed?

I wanted to share something with you that I read in my devotions the other morning….

“When you feel overwhelmed, ask yourself, “Am I sacrificing my sanity or family to make this happen?”

Pray about how God wants you to spend your time. What is best for you? Your marriage? Your family? Creating healthy boundaries removes control’s talons and anchors them in freeing permission. Along with God’s prompting, only you are in charge of your calendar. Fill yourself with Him first before pouring yourself out.”

Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.

Matthew 11:28‭-‬30

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No Gym No Problem

No Gym? No Problem! #28 Popsugar 300 Calories in 30 Minutes Workout With Weights

Take 30 minutes and improve your day! Your health and wellness are worth it!  Remember to keep proper form and warm up before, and stretch after you exercise!

 

Are you enjoying these “No Gym? No Problem!” posts?  If so, you can check out the rest by clicking HERE!

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Jillian Michaels Body Revolution

Review of Body Revolution by Jillian Michaels Cardio 1 and 2

**See below for an update 06/03/23.

The Body Revolution program consists of 3 phases that claim to lead to “total body transformation.” It is a 90-day program with 6 workouts a week and one day to rest.  Each phase consists of 4 metabolic training workouts and one cardio workout.  Each workout is “only” 30 minutes long.  Even numbered workouts work the front of the body, oddly numbered workouts concentrate on working the back of the body.  Every workout works the abdominals.

What is included with the purchase of Jillian Michael’s Body Revolution:

15 DVDs
resistance cable
fitness guide
90-day journal
“customizable” 90-day fat-burning meal plan,
FREE 30-day web club access
bonus 7 day Kick Start Your Metabolism diet plan that will help to “detox your body and curb your food cravings or addictions.”

jillian-michaels-body-revolution | lookingjoligood.wordpress.com

The first phase is 4 weeks and includes workouts 1-4 and the cardio level 1 workout. The second phase is 4 weeks and includes workouts 5-8 and the cardio level 2 workout.

Phase 1 Cardio 1 for Weeks 1 through 4

What will you need?  Good supportive athletic shoes, that’s it.

While this phase is meant to be low impact you will still be sore when you first start out.

No warm up for this workout, it starts right up with the circuit.  Each of the eight parts is done for one minute and repeated through twice for a total of three times.

Jillian Michaels Body Revolution Cardio 1 Review | lookingjoligood.wordpress.com

Workout:
1. March in place
2. Hot/fast feet
3. Punch it out in a half squat position
4. Jog in place
5. Running Man (I HATE this one)
6. Speed bags (doing this for 1 minute is a lot harder than you might think it would be.)
7. Kick outs with arm circles (Jillian also calls them mummy kicks)
8. Suicides

Repeat twice.

Cool Down/Stretches

After finishing the weeks of phase one and two and now moving on to cardio workout 3,   I was super sore from the workouts the first two days, but after that not much at all.

Here is one of my very favorite Jillian Micheals quotes:

“This is where it matters the most. This is where lives are made, in these moments when you can choose whether or not to say ‘I cant’ or ‘I can.’ It is a choice that will either make or break you for life.”

Phase 2 Cardio 2 for Weeks 5 through 8

What will you need?  Good supportive athletic shoes, that’s it.

No warm-up for this workout, it starts right up with the circuit.  Each of the fourteen parts is done for 30 seconds and repeated through twice for a total of three times.

Workout:
1. Jump rope
2. Butt Kicks
3. High Knees
4.Alternating Knee Strikes
5. Jumping Jacks
6. Fast Feet
7. Skiers
8. Skaters
9. Plié Hops
10. Cross Jacks
11.Upper Cuts
12. Towel Runs Right then Left
13. Hooks Right then Left
14. Burpees (I HATE burpees, but then again, who doesn’t.)

Repeat twice.

Cool Down/Stretches

I love this workout.  I think that because each of the moves only lasts for 30 seconds it is much more tolerable and enjoyable!

I hope this was helpful if you are trying to decide if Jillian Michaels Body Revolution is right for you!

Here is another of my very favorite Jillian Micheals quotes:

“Many are so preoccupied with what others think it defines their existence. When we fixate externally, it keeps us from truly knowing ourselves and our destiny. Most [people] fear looking inward for worry they won’t find greatness, but when you stop allowing others to define your worth, you’ll see—greatness exists in us all, waiting to be
 expressed”

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**Update 06/03/2023:

The following statement reflects my personal experience and should not be construed as a universal condemnation or endorsement of any specific approach to exercise and dieting, including that of Jillian Michaels. It is crucial to acknowledge that individual experiences may vary, and what works positively for one person may have different outcomes for another. This update aims to highlight a specific personal situation and the impact it had on my mental health while recognizing the potential benefits of certain approaches.

I would like to share that I had previously found success in improving my physical state through the approach advocated by Jillian Michaels. It helped me achieve notable physical results, which I am grateful for. However, it is essential to recognize that along with other life circumstances, this approach also had detrimental effects on my mental health.

While the approach focused on aspects like intense workouts and strict dietary restrictions, I found myself constantly striving for unrealistic standards and pushing my body beyond its limits. The intense pressure I placed on myself, coupled with the strict regimen, had a negative impact on my overall well-being. I experienced feelings of guilt, anxiety, and a distorted perception of my body image, which significantly affected my mental health.

It is important to understand that personal circumstances, including mental health, can greatly influence the outcomes and experiences related to any exercise or dieting approach. What might work positively for one individual may lead to adverse effects for another. Our mental and emotional well-being should never be sacrificed for the sole pursuit of physical transformation.

It is crucial to prioritize our holistic health, which encompasses physical, mental, and emotional aspects. This may involve adopting an approach that encourages self-compassion, self-acceptance, and a balanced lifestyle. Consulting with healthcare professionals or seeking guidance from qualified experts who specialize in mental health, nutrition, and fitness can be beneficial in developing a personalized and sustainable approach.

In conclusion, this update serves as a personal reflection on the impact of a specific approach to exercise and dieting on my mental health. It is essential to recognize the potential benefits and limitations of any approach, understanding that individual experiences and circumstances can greatly influence the outcomes. It is crucial to prioritize mental well-being alongside physical health and to seek professional advice when making changes to your exercise or dieting routine to ensure a balanced and sustainable approach.

No Gym No Problem

No Gym? No Problem! #26 Six Minute Standing Ab Workout

This ab workout it literally 6 minutes long!  Six minutes!!!  You definitely have time for this one!  You won’t even have to get down onto the ground.  Keep your abs engaged and remember to breathe.

6 Minute Standing Ab Workout: A Great Ab Workout without the Floor

Do you have 6 minutes to improve your health and wellness? Yes, You Do! No Excuses, Just do it! Remember to keep good proper form, warm up before, and stretch after you exercise!

Are you enjoying these “No Gym? No Problem!” posts?  If so, you can check out the rest by clicking HERE!

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Lifestyle

The Blessing of the Storm

The other day was a hot humid summer day. As I was out in my yard in the evening, I noticed the flowers in my garden were all wilting from the heat.

That night as it started to rain, I listened to the thunder and watched the lightning, it made me think… Sometimes the storm turns out to really be a blessing. It cooled off the air and brought the rain my flower beds needed.

Sometimes in life, it takes storms to bring special blessings too. When everything goes the way we’d like, we often forget how much we need Jesus. But when we go through difficult times, we learn more about Him and about how much He loves and cares for us. No matter how fierce the storm seems, He loves and cares for us more than you can even imagine.

I don’t like the “storms” in my life. I don’t like to be unhappy or uncomfortable or disappointed. During those times, I need to learn to stop questioning why God sends storms into my life, and just trust Him to be with me and see me through them. (Proverbs 3:5-7)

Having faith in Jesus and trusting Him will give us the strength to brave any storm that comes our way. Then just like my flower beds, after the storm has passed, we’ll be refreshed.

Heavenly Father, help me to search for you in the storm.  Guide me with your strength. May I search for the blessings among the pain.

james 1:2-3 | lookingjoligood.blog

James 1:2-3

My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations; Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience. But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing. If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him. But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. For he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea driven with the wind and tossed.

Psalms 46:1‭-‬3 | lookingjoligood.blog

Psalms 46:1‭-‬3

God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore will not we fear, though the earth be removed, and though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea; Though the waters thereof roar and be troubled, though the mountains shake with the swelling thereof. Selah.

Proverbs 3:5‭-‬7 | lookingjoligood.blog

Proverbs 3:5‭-‬7

Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. Be not wise in thine own eyes: fear the Lord , and depart from evil.

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Health/ Fitness · Jillian Michaels Body Revolution

Review of Body Revolution by Jillian Michaels Phase 1 Workouts 3 and 4

**Please see update below.

Did you think that I totally forgot about these?  Nope, I didn’t!  My sore muscles haven’t forgotten either! 😉

The Body Revolution program consists of 3 phases that claim to lead to “total body transformation.” It is a 90-day program with 6 workouts a week and one day to rest.  Each phase consists of 4 metabolic training workouts and one cardio workout.  Each workout is “only” 30 minutes long.  Even numbered workouts work the front of the body, odd numbered workouts concentrate on working the back of the body.  Every workout works the abdominals.

What is included with the purchase of Jillian Michael’s Body Revolution:

15 DVDs
resistance cable
fitness guide
90-day journal
“customizable” 90-day fat-burning meal plan,
FREE 30-day web club access
bonus 7 day Kick Start Your Metabolism diet plan that will help to “detox your body and curb your food cravings or addictions.”

The first phase is 4 weeks and includes workouts 1-4 and the cardio level 1 workout.

Here is a review of  Phase 1 Workouts 3 and 4:

Phase 1 Workout 3 for Weeks 3 and 4

What will you need?  exercise mat and free weights (3, 5 or 8 lbs depending on your strength level) 
Get ready to squat!
  Regular squats, sumo squats, chair squats, and step out step in squats.

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Just like workout 1, workout 3 is focused on the front of the body.  It incorporates some yoga moves as well as strength training.  Right away you will notice that the workout is more intense than 1+2, but you will also notice how much stronger you already are.
Where can you expect to be sore the next day?  

  • Chest
  • Shoulders,
  • Abs,
  • Triceps
  • Quads

The workout is broken down into 4 circuits; each of which are repeated once with  one minute of cardio  in between the circuit repetition.  Some of these things are harder to name/explain.

Here is a breakdown of phase one workout one

Warm-up

  • Jumping Jacks
  • Cat Cow Stretch
  • High Kicks
  • Lateral Leg Swings R/L
  • Jumping Jacks

Circuit 1:

  •  Push-ups
  • Down Dog with ankle grab R/L
  • Alternating Backwards Lunges-advanced modification-add weights
  • Plank walks outs

Cardio -1 minute Jumprope

Circuit 2:

  • Sumo Squats with tricep extension-advanced modification- add heavier weights
  •  Camel yoga pose with ankle stretch (looks a lot easier than it is.)
  • Squat press -advanced modification-add heavier weights
  • Cable press with static lunge

Cardio -1 minute Punches with half squat-repeat circuit 2

Circuit 3:

  • Plank to Crescent pose back to plank
  • Crab position with dip
  • Side Crunches R/L

Cardio -1 minute- Plie Hops-repeat circuit 3

Circuit 4:

  • Tree pose with Lateral raises-use lighter weights – right
  • Plank ups (these are so hard, but I love them)
  • Tree pose with Lateral raises-use liter weights – left
  • Inchworm crunches

Cardio -1 minute-Skiers-repeat circuit 4

Cool Down/Stretches

 

“You have no idea the strength you have within you!”

Phase 1 Workout 4 for Weeks 3 and 4

Like workout 2, workout 4 is focused on the back of the body but has more compound movements than the earlier 2 workouts.

jillian-michaels-body-revolution | lookingjoligood.wordpress.com

What will you need?  exercise mat and free weights (3, 5 or 8 lbs depending on your strength level)

While this phase is still meant to be low impact you will still be sore when you first start out.
Where can you expect to be sore the next day?  

  • Back
  • Biceps
  • Glutes
  • Hamstrings
  • Abs

The workout is broken down into 4 circuits; each of which are repeated once with  one minute of cardio  in between the circuit repetition.

comfortable with being uncomfortable | lookingjoligood.wordpress.com

Here is a breakdown of phase one workout four:

Warm-up

  • Butt Kicks
  • Single Leg Hip/Glute Stretch
  • Backwards Arm Circles
  • Repeat

Circuit 1:

  •  Alternating forward Lunges
  • Static Squat with a Medium Row
  • Single Leg Deadlift with Upright Row
  • Opposite Leg Deadlift

Cardio -1 minute Plyo Skaters -repeat circuit 1

Circuit 2:

  • Side Lunge Bicep Curl
  •  Bent Over Wide Row High and Wide
  • With arms holding weights strait up, step back with front knee down onto the ground into kneeling position back up to standing with weights lifted over the head the entire time (does that even make any sense?  Trust me, it is super hard and not fun at all!)

Cardio -1 minute-Alternate step up/hops with weights-repeat circuit 2

Circuit 3:

  • Side laying single leg lift with heavy weight
  • Plank with alternating leg raise
  • Side laying single leg lift with heavy weight opposite side
  • Hollowman

Cardio -1 minute- Fast Feet-repeat circuit 3

Circuit 4:

  • Terry Pulls right side (looks easy, but if done correctly it is a lot harder that it seems)
  • Good Mornings with 2 heavy weights
  • Terry Pulls left side (not an ab move, think about the terry muscles that you are using.)
  • Swarms (crunch up and rotate touching your ankles.)

Cardio -1 minute-Jab Cross Hook Upper Cut Combo- repeat circuit 4

Cool Down/Stretches

Since I haven’t written about Body revolution in a while, I finished phase one and now moved on to the second half of phase 1-workouts 3 and 4.   I was super sore from the workouts the first two days, but after that not much at all.
I will write a detailed review of Workout 2 and Cardio 1 soon.

If you are interested in my review of Workouts 1+2 and Cardio 1 click HERE.

I hope this was helpful if you are trying to decide if Jillian Michaels Body Revolution is right for you!

One of Jillian Micheals’ strong points is her motivational quotes:

This is where it matters the most. This is where lives are made, in these moments when you can choose whether or not to say ‘I cant’ or ‘I can.’ It is a choice that will either make or break you for life.

lookingjoligood.wordpress.com

I would love for you to follow me on TwitterPinterest, and Facebook. You can find me as Looking Joli Good on all three.

**Update:

Initially, I found Jillian Michaels’ approach to exercise and dieting highly motivational. Her intense workouts and strict dietary guidelines pushed me to achieve remarkable physical results, which fueled my motivation and determination. I embraced her no-nonsense attitude and believed that pushing my body to its limits was the only way to achieve success. However, as time went on, I began to realize that this approach was taking a toll on my mental health. The relentless pursuit of physical perfection and the constant pressure I placed on myself led to feelings of anxiety, guilt, and a distorted body image. It was then that I decided to change my perspective and adopt a more balanced and loving approach to my body. By prioritizing self-compassion, listening to my body’s needs, and embracing acceptance, I discovered a newfound sense of mental well-being. This shift in thinking allowed me to find joy in movement, cultivate a positive relationship with my body, and ultimately, achieve a healthier and more sustainable approach to overall well-being.

Lifestyle

“What About The Things You Can’t Change?” A Devotional by Anna Light

I really enjoyed this devotional by Anna Light entitled “What about the things you can’t change?” It spoke to my heart and I wanted to share it with all of you!

Psalms 37:4 Delight thyself also in the Lord; and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart.

Psalms 37:4 | lookingjoligood.blog
“We can’t change another person’s heart. We can’t change the past. We might not be able to change or control our circumstances. But do you believe, in His divine understanding, that God has placed you in this life with your issues, relationships, and station, for a specific reason? Could He be using those things that are out of our control, to teach us absolute trust in His perfect plan for our lives? God doesn’t waste anything. He doesn’t waste a hardened heart, tough circumstances, or things outside our control. What might He be showing you through the things in your life that you don’t like, but cannot change?”
Isaiah 55:8-9 For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the Lord.

9For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts.

“Another question to ask ourselves: are we enduring the things we can’t change or embracing them?
There’s a big difference between enduring and embracing and the difference is in our attitude. Enduring means we do just enough to get by while embracing elevates us from survival to thriving, even in the midst of our hardship.
When we choose to embrace instead of enduring, nothing might change in our circumstances, but the change will be in our heart. He can use those unmoving circumstances to soften our heart, which might not have changed otherwise.
Psalm 37:4 can help us understand this idea a little better. “Delight yourself in the Lord and He will give you the desires of your heart.” Growing up I always thought that meant if I did all the right things I would get what I wanted… only later did I learn the true meaning of the word “delight.” The Hebrew word translated “delight” literally means to be delicate. It carries the idea of being pliable and soft. So when God says to delight ourselves in Him, He’s saying, “Let Me mold and shape your desires. As you delight in Me, your desires will become My desires. What I want will be what you want.”
Is He asking you to dive into what He’s given you so that through the things that cannot be changed become the things that change you?
Mark 11:24 | lookingjoligood.blog

Mark 11:23-24 For verily I say unto you, That whosoever shall say unto this mountain, Be thou removed, and be thou cast into the sea; and shall not doubt in his heart, but shall believe that those things which he saith shall come to pass; he shall have whatsoever he saith.

24 Therefore I say unto you, What things soever ye desire, when ye pray, believe that ye receive them, and ye shall have them.

Lord, there are some things in my life that I do not like, but I have no power to change. Show me what it is I can do to change my attitude and mindset. I want a heart of flesh, molded and shaped by your loving hands. Help me trust You even when I don’t understand what I’m going through. I place this difficult, unchanging situation in Your hands and ask that Your will be done.”
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Flab to FAB · Health/ Fitness · Jillian Michaels Body Revolution

I May Be Crazy… The Return of Flab To Fab and Body Revolution

If you have been a long time reader of Looking Joli Good, you may remember the Flab to Fab series from 2016. While I still think of myself as fab 😉 I have let myself get a little flab over the last few winter months. That is all about to change!

About two years ago, I wrote a post entitled Where is the Body Revolution? At the point that I wrote that post, I had completed 10 of the 12 Jillian Michaels’ Body Revolution workouts. My whole body was in pain and constantly so sore that I chose to give up on completing the rest of the system. I have regretted not finishing ever since.

Jillian Michaels Body Revolution Phase 2 Workout 5 | lookingjoligood.wordpress.com

Recently, I found myself lacking the motivation to exercise. I was half-heartedly doing my daily workouts and dreading them. I knew exactly what I needed, a good kick in the pants from my best friend. I love Jillian! Her workouts are by far my favorites! Something about her method is so motivating. I always feel amazing and accomplished after I complete one of her workouts.

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A few weeks ago I started Body Revolution over again. I started right at the beginning back at week one of the system. Since I exercise on a regular basis it starts off “easy”, it almost seems to be too simple for a Jillian workout. Do not be fooled by the first few workouts, it gets a lot harder! I am beginning week 6, so I have completed workouts 1-4 as well as cardio 1 and 2. Last week I did workouts 5 and 6 and will repeat them again this week. (So far workout 6 has been my favorite.)

I am sore in places I forgot existed.

jillian-michaels-body-revolution | lookingjoligood.wordpress.com

The last time I did this workout program, I wrote detailed reviews with all the information that I was looking for when I was researching this workout program. If you would like to read those reviews you can click HERE. In the next few weeks, as I complete the workouts, I will be writing reviews of workouts 7-12 and cardio 3.

Yes, I may be crazy, but I am so motivated again. Forget the flab, I’ll be fab again in no time! As for right now, I need to go stretch out my sore muscles. 😉

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