If you’re a mother, you can probably relate: it’s easy to put your priorities on the backburner when it comes to taking care of your family. But giving yourself permission to practice some self-love can go a long way, especially when it comes to your health. Amanda F., a mother of two and real Jenny Craig member, realized she needed to make herself a priority and committed to losing weight for her health and happiness. After losing 40 lbs.* with Jenny Craig, she continues to practice her newfound healthy habits despite a hectic schedule. We sat down with Amanda to learn how she balances work, kids and a routine — all while maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
*Members following our program, on average, lose 1-2 lbs. per week. Amanda received promotional consideration.
Quote“I chose Jenny Craig to help me regain my health, self-confidence, wardrobe and most of all my self-love.”
Do you have any advice for mothers who are trying to lose weight?
Keep it simple! Either meal prep with Jenny Craig (eating a Jenny Craig lunch and snacks throughout the workday) or meal prep at the beginning of every week. It is so important for me to keep things simple and convenient — especially when it comes to food. I like to have choices and keep lots of healthy snacks and water in my car. Also, remembering to eat six times a day keeps me from getting too hungry. Eating an afternoon snack helps me to not overeat at dinnertime.
What’s your favorite way to practice self-care?
Making the time to work out! I coordinate time with my husband every week to watch the kids while I take a fitness class. I take a barre class, Pilates class and a kettlebell class three times a week. I used to work out at home, but getting out of the house and working out with other moms has been huge for me. I really look forward to my classes and have even made a few new friends at the studio.
Another self-care tip is to take a bath. I do this at least once a week after the kiddos go to bed. It is a good time to reflect on the day and relax. An added bonus: it doesn’t cost anything!
Do you have any mindfulness practices that have helped you throughout your journey?
Something that has helped me be more mindful throughout my weight loss journey is my daily meditation book. I start my day by reading a short daily reflection that helps me feel both encouraged and grateful for how far I’ve come. It also helps motivate me to continue on this healthy path.
With your kids in school, are there any tips or tricks you have for making sure you eat healthy as a family? Is there anything special you do when things get extremely busy?
We make it a point to try to eat dinner together every night. It’s also fun to have the kids help prepare food and set the table. Another thing I focus on is keeping healthy snacks in the car that are easily accessible for me and the kiddos. Oftentimes after school, the kids are starving, and I get hungry between lunch and dinner as well. It’s nice to have an apple or a Jenny Craig snack and not feel guilty about it! We also schedule one-on-one time with each of the kids once a week — this is usually something very simple like taking a walk with my daughter or riding bikes with my son. It’s a great way to connect with the kids and get a little exercise.
Any advice for someone just starting Jenny Craig?
My advice to anyone starting the Jenny Craig program is to just do it! Follow the meal plan, utilize your consultant and use your weekly consultations as precious “me time.” Also, set a small achievable goal and readjust as needed. I have met and exceeded my goals while on the Jenny Craig program and continue to maintain my loss with the help of my consultant.* It’s been very valuable to me to have my consultant to cheer me on and encourage me along the way. I would’ve given up several times without the help and guidance from both Connie and Veronica.
*Members following our program lose, on average, 1-2 lbs. per week. Amanda received promotional consideration.
Feeling inspired by Amanda’s story? Start your own by scheduling some “me time” and get a free consultation with a Jenny Craig consultant.
Edited by Stephanie E - Jenny Craig
Recommended Comments
Join the conversation
You are posting as a guest. If you have an account, sign in now to post with your account.
Note: Your post will require moderator approval before it will be visible.