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lynn09 · Sep 25, 2010, 11:39 AM

(((((starlite))))) Don't forget that you were terribly ill with that systemic staph infection and on massive doses of antibiotics for over a month - running major fevers and no consistent appetite or restful sleep - PLUS weathering major, major changes in your life. When you are that ill and inactive, your muscles are going to atrophy to some extent - even your heart muscles; so, you can count on it taking 2-3 times the length of your illness for your body to fully recover from it - lots of damage that your body must repair - growing new cells to replace the damaged ones.

PLUS, during that prolonged illness, you were under considerable emotional stress due to changes you have made in yourself and a number of your real-life personal relationships, some of which are making you feel uncomfortable and unsafe - vulnerable. That stress had a negative impact on your immune system which not only served to prolong your illness, but to prolong your recovery, as well, since you are still in the process of adjusting to those changes. Give yourself some credit, Girl - all things considered, you've weathered things very well.

Try to think of the extra weight you are now carrying as extra reserves that your body needs to heal itself. Approach your exercise slowly - spread it out over the day - do fewer repetitions every few hours rather than trying to do everything in one set; instead of trying to do 100 abs at once, do 20 several times during the day - instead of 30 minutes on the Gazelle, do 5-10 minutes several times during the day. Gradually, your body will burn the fat as more lean muscle is developed - lean muscle burns more calories than fat, and your metabolism and stamina will gradually increase. When you first started exercising, you didn't start out doing 100 abs and 30 minutes on the Gazelle - it took time for you to build up to that level - you did it before, and you will do it again.

I know that it is hard to be patient with yourself especially battling body-image issues, but your body is just a biological machine - it is not YOU - and cells cannot just be replaced - they must grow, so create the best biological environment possible to facilitate that healing process. Eat a nutritious, balanced diet, and try to get consistent sleep. Pushing yourself too hard emotionally or physically at this point will only serve to slow your progress - so, be gentle with your body and be nice to you. Your Friend lynn09