Sacramento California.
I turned 40. I know not a big deal – however for me it was a moment of pause and reflection. I am so grateful for so many things in this life especially the friends and relationships that I am a part of. I am thankful for the people in my life and the amazing moments we have shared more than anything. I feel lucky to be in a profession where I get to witness so much joy in others lives as well.
The toughest part of turning forty though has been realizing I am no longer look thirty. I seemed to have collected a few extra pounds with age and some eating habits as well that didn’t make me feel my best. My crinkly facial skin and spare tire around the middle aren’t getting better by themselves. At forty do I live with it? Do I throw in the towel and enjoy the extra 35 – 40 pounds that weren’t there before marriage, kids, and career? If I do lose weight what will I do about all the loose skin – especially around the face and eyes? As a plastic surgeon, I am fortunate enough to witness amazing transformations daily and am always inspired by the inner strength I witness from patients whom decide to make positive changes in their lives and relationships and themselves. This always resonates with me and our staff at Chrysalis Cosmetics. In reflection this is what I wanted for the next chapter of life!
I decided I’d better start practicing what I preach and get into better shape. After reading the China Study and In Defense of Food, we as a family were inspired to eat more whole foods and less animal protein. We have started gardening and become members in a CSA. Eating this way feels good rationally as well as physically. It is amazing to eat something you witnessed grow over a course of several months from a seed. We started raising bees to better pollinate the yard and are enjoying learning about being better stewards of the land. We have started collecting water and eating raw foods as well. It has been a real awakening for our whole family.
What I noticed though as even though I was eating better I still hadn’t lost much weight however I was feeling so much better I had the energy to do something more. I was also tired of being called a Clydesdale while competing in sprint triathlons. I started training for Olympic and half ironman triathlons as well. Now having lost over 35 pounds I feel better than ever. I have gone from a 38 inch waist to a 31 and xl to a medium. I am excited to get new clothes!
In sharing these experiences with others I am always amazed at how many people have figured all this out years ago. It is fun to develop new insights as we age! Perhaps this is the golden lining of age – wisdom. Anyway I have noticed some skin changes as well with my new age. I have had to step up and adjust the skin maintenance plan as well and have started using Botox, Juvederm, and Restylane and lasers to enhance some areas that were starting to sag and bag. The realities of weight-loss, however is that it is so much fun feeling confident and hopefully providing some inspiration for others in doing so. Happiness and contentment are truly contagious. So here is to another great year.
Crossing the finish line feels so good
Plastic Surgeon Dr Perry
