Having Surgery Next Week

Not exactly the day I was expecting to have today.  Had an appointment to get the results of my MRI from earlier in the week...the long and short of those results...surgery.

 

So, am now full throttle involved in the task of getting ready for the event, and the aftermath...

 

First problem...Not going to be allowed to drive, and even once I have been cleared, not sure I will be cleared to drive a stick...I have a five speed. 

 

Cooking is going to be another issue...like it or not, you just cannot slice veggies one handed...going to prepare pre-cut veggies on Monday for the first week of recovery, but after than, will have to get someone to come in and do that for me...for that matter, going to have to have someone running me to do errands, grocery shopping, follow up visits.  Surgery living alone I am quickly realizing presents a host of issues. 

 

Thinking I should place an emergency order with Isagenix for some of their meal bars...might be hard making shakes, and at least with meals bars I would have breakfast and lunch covered if I cannot get someone in to lend a hand.  Just another unplanned expense that I do do not need right now.  Someone in one of our Isagenix Facebook groups recommended I do two ounces of cleanse daily while recovering, so need to order that as well...need to check with my surgeon to make sure the cleanse would not interfere with any prescriptions I might have to have.

 

Called a few of my friends this afternoon...have a ride to and from the hospital, and people to check in on me for the first few days, so that is a good thing.  All in all, things are falling into shape, and dealing with the news fairly well.  WISH ME LUCK!

 

 

With 79 Million Baby Boomers Wanting to Age Gracefully, Now Is The Time for Isagenix Product B Antioxidants Plus Telomere Support

With 79 million of us,  we aging Baby Boomers make up around 25 percent of America's population, and we are intent on the task of aging gracefully, and fully enjoying our Golden Years.  Yoga classes, aerobics, spas and hot tubs on our back porches are just a few of the things we employ to stay younger longer, and to be in shape as we approach that time when we retire from our jobs and head off into the proverbial sunset to persue personal endeavors and enjoy life.  Now, thanks to the wonderful people at Isagenix, we can take another big step in staying healthy longer with their remarkable Product B™ Antioxidants Plus Telomere Support.

“Only one system has it all. The Total Health & Longevity System™ combines all of the Isagenix Pillars of Health and provides the ultimate experience in Whole-Body Nutritional Cleansing, Cellular Replenishing and Youthful Aging.”

Jim Coover, Isagenix CEO, President and Co-Founder

 

Sure everyone reading this, every one of the 79 million Baby Boomers have one question, "Why does everyone need Product B™ Antioxidants Plus Telomere Support?"  Being a simple man, my answer of, "Because it works" would probably be inadequate, so thought I would let the brilliant scientists who researched and created this breakthrough supplement explain it to you in their easy to understand three minute YouTube video.

 

As you watch this video, consider using Product B™ Antioxidants Plus Telomere Support, remember just how big of a break through others see this product being as is noticed by the attention it is getting from some heavy hitters...Featured in Popular Science and Elle magazines, nominated for the People’s Choice “Favorite New Products” Stevie Award (the “Oscar” of the business world).

Product B in Just 3 Minutes

Get the lowest price by purchasing it as an Isagenix® Associate and add it to your Autoship today! If you want more information, or are ready to order the product, please feel free to contact me:

Sherwood Martinelli
Isagenix Website
Email:  Isagenix Guru
Phone: (845) 693-4513

Addition Information:

What should I know about Product B Antioxidants plus Telomere Support?

Product B positively supports telomere health by combining scientific breakthroughs in telomere support and the benefits of antioxidants in youthful aging. Product B helps maintain youthful function of cells and healthy telomeres so you can live a longer, healthier life.

How can I benefit from using Product B Antioxidants plus Telomere Support?

Product B’s full spectrum of natural bioactive antioxidants helps fight the effects of free radicals and oxidative stress, which can accelerate aging and contribute to poor health.

Read more at stayoung.info.

• Helps maintain youthful function of cells and healthy telomeres
• Helps protect the body from harmful free radicals that can accelerate aging and contribute to poor health
• Targets the sources of aging, such as oxidative stress

My Isagenix Week in Review

Come Sit For A Spell

Been a hectic week here as I dealt with post accident injuries, and got back into my full Isagenix program as I work toward meeting my November goal of weighing in by December 6th (my two month Anniversary of being on the product, being a product of the product) at or under 175 pounds.  It is going to be a nail biter, but considering the Thanksgiving Holiday and all the eating that normally is a part of that celebration, very happy as I held steady, rather than adding pounds to my frame.  Was very happy at this development, as I usually pack on a few (4-9) pounds from Thanksgiving through that Sunday...it is just TOO TEMPTING to have the leftovers in the frigerator, and pumpkin and pecan pies begging you to just HAVE ANOTHER SLICE...with a glass of milk, even better.

 

Had my first appointment with the physical therapist this morning...did not feel to good about it, but it is what it is.  My right arm is hurting more after the session than before it, but guess that is normal.  Have an impinged nerve in the neck (I think that is what the therapist was saying) and a problem in the shoulder.  Today only neck work was done, and have stretching exercises I have to do three times a day until my next appointment on Monday.  The good news on all of this...normally, would go into a total decline and pig out on various and assorted comfort foods...being on Isagenix, the desire to reach out for those things, to pile on the pounds is not there...still depressed about the situation, not one that likes persistant pain in my life, but dealing with it all in a very pro-active fashion.

 

Have spent a lot of time this week working on my marketing plan as I figure out how I want to interact with, and share the magic that is Isagenix with my friends, families and other citizens of the world.  Biggest thing this week I've worked on is working on getting known/seen by a larger audience on Twitter.  I am up over 250 QUALITY followers, and have had some very nice interactions with some of the people.  Downloaded and put Tweetdeck into operation...what a SWEET way to do your tweeting!  If you are on Twitter, seriously encourage you to give this program a test drive...you'll be sold...did I mention IT IS FREE.

 

Just had my morning Isa Shake, and getting anxious to take my December measurements as you can really see some body transformations going on...my butt is smaller, and the Budda Belly, though still there is MUCH SMALLER.  If you are looking to lose weight, are wanting more energy, are wanting to age gracefully I cannot encourage you enough to give Isagenix a try. 

 

http://sherwoodmartinelli.isagenix.com/us/en/presidentspak.html

Social Media...Some Beginners Tips For My Isa Friends

First, wishing everyone a very happy, fun filled Thanksgiving full of fun, family and blessings.  Speak a blessing of gratitude for what you do have, and lift up to the heavens a prayer for all those in the world going through rough times.

 

As I sit here drinking my morning Isa Shake (already had my Ionix Supreme) wanted to write an article to share with everyone in our Isa Social Media group over on Facebook...a few tips on getting started in Social Media Marketing.  For beginners, Social Media Marketing (SMM) can be...well, it can be intimadating. 

 

Social Media Marketing is something necessary in this new age of instantaneous communication, and it takes time to learn as there is a LOT TO LEARN.  That said, don't let it intimadate you...Rome was not built in a day, and when it comes to getting yourself out there, patience truly is a virtue.  So, some basic tips for those wanting to get started. (Hey, once the turkey is in the oven, and the footballs games are turned on, or after dinner when everyone wants to take a timeout before desert, why not get your toes wet?)

 

Social Media Tips For Beginners

 

1. Listen to your audience.  Sure, we all want to speak our minds, but are we doing it in a way that makes others want to listen...your audience is going to let you know what they like, what they want to hear about.  If one of your articles in a blog, tweets on Twitter, or a time line entry on Facebook gets great response (how many comments, how many article views?) while others see almost no traffic, your audience is speaking to you, "HEY, we really like this."  You can also ask your audience what they want to hear using polls, or even putting up a post asking them, "What articles would you like me to write, or what discussions are we wanting to have."

 

2. Know your audience.  On Facebook, many of us belong to various Isagenix groups, a captive audience of folks who want to hear about, and learn about Isagenix...so, probably would not make a lot of sense if I started putting up comments about the fine points of overhauling and restoring a 1947 DeSoto.  Those in Twitter A) like short concise statements (duh...only have 140 characters) and tend to like links in case they want more information.  Blogs on the other hand give you more of a platform for longer posts and explantions. 

 

Bonus tip...Write a blog post (IE, this one) then make a short concise statement about it with a link on twitter...a great twofer!  Viral Marketing at its finest.

 

3. Start small.  Yes, you want to protect your brand, maybe you want to run out and establish yourself on say 10 Social Media sites...but, once you have made that LAND GRAB, let some of those pieces of real estate sit idle.  It is best to put all your efforts into one or two projects, build them up, grow a following, then look toward expanding.

 

4. See what’s working.  Think of it as research...do Google searches, find out what others in your industry (Isagenix) are doing to attract and build their own audience...if you are using Facebook, go find out who is being successful marketing a similiar/identical product, and start modeling your plan based on this newly gained information...they say imitation is the highest form of flattery, and it is.  After all, why would any of us want to duplicate a marketing plan that DOES NOT WORK?

 

What it all comes down to...GET STARTED.  Find your audience, strike up conversations about what you are passionate about (Isagenix), engage, engage, ENGAGE...why do you think they call it SOCIAL MEDIA?

Starting Another Deep Cleanse Here

Have just started another two day deep cleanse here...got in my stationary bike ride covering 7.23 miles, and burning a total of 170 calories, so that is always a great way to jump into it.  In looking back on my last cleanse, realized I was a bit lack in my water intake, so this time around, making sure that the all important water component of the program is where it is supposed to be...for those wondering, to maximize weight loss you should take your total body weight and divide by two, and that is the number of ounces you should be drinking in water each and every day.  So, for myself rounding up to 180 pounds, I should be consuming 90 ounces of water a day.  To put that in perspective, that is just under six one pint bottles.

 

Another issue I am staying up on this time around...taking advantage of my Isasnacks, and I also have my Isa Delights, which is new.  (Have to contact my coach to see how many of those Isa Delights I can have during a cleanse day...I know that the snacks are pretty well unlimited.)

 

Have deliberately set my weight loss goal easy this month...Thanksgiving is next week, and as much as we want to behave, I know I am going to indulge a bit more than I should.  So, my goal during this 30 Day Cleanse period as I work on my Isagenix Body Challenge make over is to be under 175 pounds by the end of it on December 6th, 2012 which will put me within striking distance of 170 by the end of the 90 days...MY SUPER GOAL...165 pounds.  That would be SO SWEET.

 

Took a walk down to the local coffee shop in hopes of speaking to a prospective associate today, but she was not around.  Will call her later in the day and set up an appointment with her to get her signed up and started on her first 30 Day Cleanse...am thinking it might be wise to time it so that she can start the Monday after Thanksgiving.  This time of the year is such a tough time of the year to jump into this program as there are so many pitfalls in your path.  Holiday meals, parties, visiting friends and finding a plate of cookies put out on the coffee table...did I mention Eggnog...I love, love love EGGNOG.

 

Another bottle of water is in order, and maybe an Isa Snack, so going to end this here...in short, the Cleanse is GOING WELL.

Is Your Scale NOT MOVING?

I have been having trouble moving the scale downward, and was pondering the issue when I found a link to a great article on the Isagenix Health Blog on Facebook.  After reading it, have decided to share it with my readers, and put a link to the article in my sidebar...YES, it is that good!   Thank you Isagenix for creating such great information for those of us wanting to get healthy, wanting to lose weight.  Don't know about Isagenix?  Email the Isaguru, or call me at (845) 693-4513

 

Can’t Make the Scale Budge? 11 Questions to Ask Yourself

March 20, 2012

by Ina Nozek, DC, MS, CCN

Losing stubborn weight is easier with these 11 tips.

Amazing transformational changes to our health and our body composition are seen with the Isagenix nutritional cleansing and fat burning systems, but every now and then we get “stuck.” Sometimes the weight seems to be coming off too slowly, or compared to other people’s results it doesn’t feel “up to par.”
What I’d like to do is give some tips on how to optimize weight/fat loss results so that you can reach both your health and your weight loss goals. Before you get discouraged, here are a few questions you can ask yourself:

1. Are you drinking enough water? The products do an amazing job at helping your body cleanse away toxins, but it’s your job to flush those impurities out with adequate hydration from pure, plain water. It is extremely important to consume at least eight to 10 full glasses of water each day, as is standard advice. On hot days or if performing physical activity, drink a few ounces more along with the sports drink Want More Energy?® that replenishes lost glycogen, vitamins and electrolytes.
2. Are you moving your bowels well each and every day? Constipation could hinder weight loss results. Rather than carrying around pounds that build up in the colon, regular and complete bowel movements are important in managing your ‘true’ body weight. If necessary, increasing the amount of IsaFlush! (containing magnesium) and fiber that you are taking each day will support regularity. FiberPro and FiberSnacks! can be used to get your required amount of daily fiber, which will certainly support gastrointestinal health.
3. Are you taking in enough or perhaps too many calories? Take a look at the meals and snacks that you consume on your Shake Days. Make sure to follow the program with 400- to 600-calorie meals consisting of whole, natural foods.
4. Are you letting too much time go by between your shakes and your meal and/or snacks? Timing is everything! Your shake or meal should hold your appetite for three to four hours. If there is more time than that between meals, you need to choose a healthy, balanced snack to curb hunger. This will keep your blood sugar stable and prevent your body from slowing your metabolism to conserve energy.
5. What are your food choices? Many of us may be absent-mindedly hindering results by reach for excess sugars and/or starches. Snacking on high-glycemic, low-fiber foods, or having a handful of this or that throughout the day can be enough to slow things down. Be aware of what you are choosing to eat.
6. Are you sleep deprived and/or stressed out? Either of these issues can cause your stress hormones to be out of balance and lead to increased fat storage—especially around the belly. If you are under a lot of stress and/or not sleeping restfully at night, I suggest you double up on your Ionix Supreme. Meditation and light physical activity may also be helpful in restoring your natural rhythms.
7. How often are you cleansing? For some of you, you may be cleansing too often and for others, you may not be cleansing enough. Keep your body guessing! Two consecutive Cleanse Days is the deepest advisable cleanse and the most effective way to burn fat. However, some people may do this too often. In which case, I recommend that you switch things up. Perhaps do double Cleanse Days every other week. Or, you can try one Cleanse Day one week and then a two Cleanse Days the next week. Maybe switch to drinking 1 or2 ounces daily (“daily cleansing”) for a while instead. Two to four ounces of Cleanse for Life before bed on an empty stomach may be helpful for many people, too. Remember to hydrate well throughout the day whether you are “deep” or “daily cleansing.” The key to all of this is to keep your body guessing by making sure to switch things up!
8. Are your foods settling? Food allergies and sensitivities may be playing a role in slowing weight loss results. Be aware of what foods you are eating and whether or not they are “jiving” with your body. Avoid any obvious foods sensitivities or intolerances.
9. Are you maximizing your meals? If not, consider Vanilla IsaPro! Adding 1 scoop of IsaPro to 1 or 1 ½ scoops of IsaLean shake can be helpful for optimizing your metabolism. The boost to protein can make a huge difference to anyone with a sluggish metabolism. Extra protein also keeps your appetite satisfied longer and promotes maintenance of muscle, a key element for plateau busting!
10. How many steps do you take every day? Get out there and move! Exercise is so important for our general health and it makes a huge difference in transforming our body composition. Daily exercise increases metabolism naturally as we build muscle. Incorporate strength and resistance training as well as cardio exercise for optimal fat burning results.
11. Are you following the plan? Are you committed to getting the best results? Are your food choices optimal? Are you adding too many extra calories to your shakes and to your snacking? Be honest with yourself. If we are honest with ourselves, sometimes we realize that we could be more committed and disciplined. For some of us, it’s this discipline that makes all of the difference in achieving our goals. Then maintenance becomes a lot easier. Stay strong in order to truly transform your body so that you can look and feel your absolute best!

Isagenix Body Challenge...My New Goals

Me at over 200 POUNDS!

For those that don't know, at the encouragement of my personal coach (Andrea Hameed), entered the Isagenix Body Challenge when I got my first box of product (the 30 Day Cleanse).  My first 30 days have been a roller coaster in a very good way.  The progress so far has been wonderful, and all of the original goals I set for myself in that first 30 days have in various degrees been met.  I am learning more and more about Isagenix, and becoming comfortable with talking about the product...homework, homework, homework.  My weight loss is exciting...for the first time in at least 10 years, I am under 180 pounds, have lost some 24 total body inches, and my budda belly is rapidly becoming a baby budda belly...this last one is making me feel SO MUCH BETTER about myself, really building my self esteem.

 

So, as I get ready for the first Deep Cleanse of my next 30 days, thinking it is time to establish a few new goals that I want to accomplish.

 

1.  As I get closer to the weight I should be, know that the weight loss is going to slow down a bit.  So, looking at that, want to find myself by December 6th (end of my second 30 Day Cleanse) to have my weight down under 175 pounds...this would allow me to set a goal for January 6th (end of my first 90 days) of being under 170 pounds.

This Weekend At 178 POUNDS!

2.  Want to see another ten inches of total body inches gone.

3.  Begin making my exercising more regimented and routine...though overall I have been very good at doing a lot more exercise, it is still NOT ROUTINE, so want to work on this, which in turn will help me build more muscle mass to replace the fat weight I am slowly shedding.

4.  Working on quitting smoking by cutting down, and have switched to rolling my own with organic tobacco.  Want to continue on this track through December with the goal being a quit date in early January.

5.  In my first 30 days, signed up one new associate...want to try to double that in my second month...would love more, but if I double my associates in month two from month one, that is forward progress of a positive kind.

6.  Do more work to build my blog traffic...in the first five weeks of the blog, reached 1000 visitors.

 

If you want to join my team on this exciting journey of getting in shape, losing weight, please email me, the IsagenixGuru or give me a call at (845) 345-6523

 

 

Using Your Facebook To Maximize Your Isagenix Exposure

I've been on Isagenix now for about five, going on six weeks.  The changes that I have been experiencing are nothing short of miraculous.  I feel healthier, have lost so far about 15 pounds, and shed some 24 body inches.   Those are results I want to share, the products to me a magic I want to share with friends and family, as well as the much larger audience on the world wide web...in short, now that I am a product of the product, I want to develop a business/a residue income stream created by making others healthier, sharing with them what I have found in using Isagenix.  Being a blogger, having over years created web presense for various interests that have seen hundreds of thousands of visitors, am a firm believer that using Social Media (including Facebook) is a great way to interact with a much larger audience...especially since we all have only so many family and friends that we can share our testimony with.

 

Today, want to write/share about a powerful Facebook tool we as users wanting to market ourselves tend to overlook that is available to all of us who are on, and use Facebook in sharing our stories in our efforts to introduce to others the magic that is Isagenix.

 

See yourself writing a GREAT Facebook update in your timeline, something you want to keep there for a few days, even a week right up at the top of your timeline...

I've lost 14.5 pounds and 24 body inches in my first 30 Day Isagenix Cleanse.  If you are wanting to lose weight and feel healthier, are wanting more energy, please friend me here on Facebook, private message me, or visit me at www.22s.com/isaguru or http://sherwoodmartinelli.isagenix.com.  In a hurry to get started with your own journey then call me directly at (845) 346-6523 so I can get you enrolled today.

 

I post this, and want to keep it at the top of my timeline for a week...Facebook lets you PIN an item to the top of your time line for a period of seven days!  Here is how you do it.

 

Using the Pinning Feature

Pinning needs done manually. When using this feature, your pinned status update will not move from where you “pin” it no matter how many status updates you add to your Facebook page for a period of seven days.

One at a Time:

You can only pin one at a time during a seven day period, so choose carefully what you want to pin.

Where Your Pinned Post Will Appear:

Pinned posts always appear at top of your Facebook Timeline (on the left).

The Length of Time that Pinning Lasts:

Once you pin a post on your page, it will remain pinned for seven days unless you unpin.

How to Pin a Post:

To pin a post, click on pencil icon that appears in upper right  corner of your status update. Once you have selected the pencil icon, select “Pin to Top.”

How to Unpin a Post:

Click on the pencil icon in the top right corner of  pinned/choose the “unpin” option.

Come back often to see more tips and suggestions to help you master using Social Media to build your Isagenix downline.

 

 

 

 

 

Are You A Homemaker Looking For A Part Job? Perhaps Networking Marketing Is Right For You

My Isagenix Stash

Was in one of my Facebook groups the other night reading posts when I came across something that I did not know...seems that women make up the lions share of people involved in network marketing, and they ARE VERY GOOD AT IT.  

It was not something I had given much thought to, but once I read this fact, wondered first why it was that women make up a larger percentage of the people in this industry, and what makes them so good at.  A bit of research indicates the following explanations on why women are great networking marketers.

1. Women are good listeners, and better at relationship building than men are.  These skills allow them to really understand their customers and their needs.

2. Women's intuition...seriously, without having all the facts women have an innate ability to determine what a customer is thinking, and whether or not someone is a great prospect to be an associate.

3.  Women are more willing to learn...a man will drive around for hours rather than stop and ask for directions, while a woman is much more willing to ask for help, which makes them better at learning the in's and out's of network marketing.

4.  Women as a general rule make most of the buying decisions in a home...they seek out information about the products they are considering bringing into the home, and want personal recommendations from friends who have experience or knowledge about a product.

5.  Women really like the flexibility of schedule that being a network marketer affords them.

6.  Women are really good at finding consensus, which (IMO) make them much better at building a team (downline) than are men.

Sure there are other reasons that make women great at network marketing, but these really struck a cord in my own mind.  So, if you are a woman, and you have been looking into network marketing, if you have been wondering if it is the right opportunity for you, would love to explain the Isagenix business model to you, and introduce you to their wonderful line of products.

Drop me an email at Isagenix Guru, or call me at (845)346-6523

A Beautiful Sunday...Hard to Believe A Hurricane Was Here

After The Storm

Spring forward, fall back...daylight savings time has arrived signalling a too soon winter all but knocking on our doors as those states hit so hard by Hurricane Sandy worry about a Nor'easter that could hit us this upcoming Wedneday.  Looking out my window on this crisp fall day, the sun shining ever so bright, the remaining leaves bright and inviting it is hard to believe just a few days ago our area was SLAMMED with a major hurricane dubed by some as Frankenstorm.

 

It is during these times that man's humanity to man comes shining through, examples of our generosity evident in abundance from neighbors helping neighbors, to marathoners in New York deciding to stay over the weekend to lend helping hands after the New York City Marathon was cancelled for this year.   If only we could find a way to have such generosity of heart the norm in society, rather than the exception that comes out in times of disaster.

 

Hurricane Sandy has once again like so many disaster before it reminds us all that we are mere humans and no match for Mother Nature and her immense power when she decides to bring the brute force to bear against our communities...it also reminds us to be thankful for what we have, reminds us to be thoughtful and concerned about all those who directly and indirectly are involved in our lives...think the six degrees of separation. 

 

In my own small hamlet (we are a small group of people in downtown Mountaindale) we all pitched in, dealt with the crisis at hand by pulling together, pooling our resources and supplies so that we all got through the storm with as little impact as possible.  Kelsey and Mark's kitchen became the hub of what one can only call a village.  Cooking and a few Coleman lanterns for light kept the cold nights at bay, their small apartment warm, welcoming and cozy.  Judd who lives upstairs from our only local bar went out during the power outage in search of ice, returning home with eight bags full when he got lucky and saw an ice truck pulling into a convenience store miles from home.  Others took their chain saws and went out in search of wood, clearing roads and bringing home some much needed firewood for the fire ring out in the backyard, the evening campfires lifting peoples spirits.

 

The storm was harsh, but through community, everyone made it through, and now with the electric back on and life returning to normal we all have recieved a special gift...we all know and appreciate each other a bit more now than before the storm.

 

Time to grab my camera and go for a nice long walk on this beautiful day after the storm.

Smoking...The Ugly White Elephant In The Room

As a small child, though born in Saint Louis, spent my early years in the small town of Jeffersonville, Indiana along the banks of the Ohio River across from Louisville, Kentucky.  Remember with fondness the Belle of Louisville and Delta Queen steam wheelers going up and down the river, picking golden rod to take home to my mom who never told me until I was much older that she was allergic to them.  Sunday evenings after dinner were spent in front of the black and white television watching Ed Sullivan, Bonanza and of course Disney World.  

About half way through Disney World (think back then it was called the Wonderful World of Disney) they would have a Marlboro commercial...I and my older brother would watch in both awe and envy a cowboy ride his horse up to the top of the bluff, dismount, reach into his saddlebag and light up a Marlboro (red pack) as he watched the sun go down...he had everything a kid growing up in the country could want.  A horse, chaps, cowboy boots, a saddle and bags, and FREEDOM...in short, myself and many others like me wanted to grow up an be the Marlboro man.   Sure that commercial played a big part in my brother and I's thievery of my father's non-filter Pall Mall cigarettes from atop of the refrigerator all those years ago when I was just six years old.  We would sneak out behind the barn, light up and pretend we were that cowboy on his gallant steed...that was fifty, almost 51 years ago.

Sitting here today on what is my twelfth day in Isagenix thinking again the same thoughts I have thought about so many times before...you know, you really should quit smoking, it would be good for your health.  

Fact is, it would be good for my health, the issue of quitting is that proverbial White Elephant in the room, perhaps the biggest obstacle in my path as I try to embrace this new Isagenix lifestyle, as I work toward letting a new me emerge from the ashes. (pun not intended)  I've tried quitting before,  once making it almost ten months before life issues and (perhaps) a lack of personal will power saw me succumb; thinking I would just have one or two...much like most of my life, as I sit here writing after having gone outside to have a smoke, realize that my habit has been pretty consistent at a pack and a half too two packs a day for probably four decades...became what one could call a habitual smoke around the age of 16.

Not sure why, but over the past few days have been having a nagging thought, that little voice in the back of my head whispering to me..."Your success in this (Isagenix) depends on you giving up that nasty habit".  That other little voice saying, "Don't listen to that...you've been a smoker your whole life, and you enjoy smoking don't you?"  Ignoring the second voice mostly because I don't want to answer that question.

So, as I sit here pondering this, so methodological questions about the when and how pop up.

1.  Is it too much on my plate to try stopping in the middle of my first 30 day cleanse?

2.  If it is too much, then when is a good day to stop, and should I go cold turkey?

3.  What can I do differently this time to MAKE IT?

Any one have any thoughts, opinions, suggestions...

Sunday Thoughts, and Isagenix Challenge Update

Sitting here mid-afternoon on Sunday looking over the past week amazed at everything that is going on, proud of what I have accomplished, but also wanting to keep my eye on the ball and set new goals for the week and months ahead.  There is no denying that my first ten plus days on Isagenix have changed me in ways I cannot yet measure, though some changes are noticeable.

1.  Highly elevated levels of energy.

2.  Twelve pounds of lost weight.

3.  I look (and feel) healthier.

4.  Seem to be more focused and on some level more goal oriented...IE, worked out in some fashion 7 out of my first ten days on the program...if I get my stationary bike ride in today, 8 out of 11.

At times, caution is the word of the day.  When I look at my gut and realize I still need to lose at least 20-25 more pounds, it is easy to see doubt wanting to creep in and I pull myself back to the here and now with the old adages of "Rome wasn't built in a day" and "Take it one day at a time".  Today I am on program, today I got some exercise, today I drank the required amount of water to both hydrate and cleanse my body.  Each of these are small daily victories that I need to celebrate on what is a journey of not days, but months, even perhaps years as I embrace and move into a new life and lifestyle, one of being a healthy and happy human being.

On the subject of celebrating (and looking ahead) should celebrate my victories over this past week, some of which are identical to things listed above.

1.  Began using Isagenix...actually started the week before when the product arrived.

2.  Took my body measurements, and entered (at urging of my coach) the Isagenix Body Challenge...more on that shortly.

3.  Lost both inches and pounds this week.

4.  Completed a two day Deep Cleanse.

5.  Walked a total of ten miles this week, and rode my stationary bike another 35...this last one really excites me.

My Contest Before Picture

The Body Challenge was a tough decision, and requires a lot of long term commitment...first example, is entering the challenge locks me in, commits me to dedicating myself over to Isagenix, listening to my coach and getting myself in better shape for a period of not just a few weeks, but for a period of 90 days, three months...longer when you read the fine print in the contest rules and see you are required to maintain what you have gained if you finish your duties before the contest ends which I believe is in June of 2013. (If you are going to enter anything, it helps to read the rules...I read them last night, then copied and pasted them into an email to myself so I can refer back to them as I move forward.)

Being on Isagenix for three months is the easy part...I am committed to that.

The rules make it clear that the challenge involves not just losing weight, but actually getting in shape, becoming a healthier person, and this means exercising, working out, training even.  They suggest getting a personal trainer...that is not within my reach right now, so need to look to plan B...TRAIN MYSELF.  Tough one, as to do that, I need a CLUE.  Yes, I know getting on the stationary bike or going out for a five mile walk/hike is a good start, but that is not really training.  Did stop in my travels this weekend to purchase two eight pound weights...people getting in shape, training, always seem to do weight training, so it seems like a good idea on my part.  In the movie Rocky, he was always running up and downstairs...I've not ran in years, let alone ran up stairs!

Can you tell by now I am far from a personal fitness trainer?  So, consider this a call for help...if any of you are personal trainers, or have worked with a personal trainer, would LOVE SOME SUGGESTIONS in the comments section down below.  In the meantime, later today and into tomorrow going to start letting my mouse do the walking as I start trying to come up with some kind of a training program to go along with what Isagenix is doing for me.

There are other things in the rules...IE, a 200-500 word essay on how Isagenix is positively changing your life.  I got time to fuss, fret and worry about that one later.  We can supplement our essay with a video...my first thought...OMG, I need a video camera, and a film crew (can one volunteer friend constitute as a film crew?).  AS my mind reels in a thousand different directions, I remember...FOCUS on today, set your goals and move forward ONE DAY AT A TIME.

So, that being said, as far as the contest is concerned going to commit to the written word a few simple goals for this coming week.

1.  Stay on Isagenix, and complete my second two day Deep Cleanse.

2.  Walk or ride my stationary bike at least 5 out of the next seven days.

3.  Do some research into personal fitness, and begin laying out a fitness plan for myself that respects where I am right now, while also pushing me to attain specific goals in the weeks to come.

Hope everyone is having a great Isagenix Sunday.

A Day Ten Report...My Program Becoming Routine

Do You Have Isagenix Shakes On Tap?

Today for various reasons has been a hard day...metally, physically and emotionally.  It is the kind of a day when I would have normally have craved comfort food, the kind of a day where at lunch time I would have gone to the nearest fast food place and gotten a couple burgers, a order of fries and a large soda.  The odd thing was, wanted NONE OF THAT, just wanted my shake and some water.  So, on a very stressful day, proud to realize I stuck to my routine, having my two shakes, drinking my water, and of course taking my accelerator, and most pleasing...did not really think about it as it was and is my routine, what I not only need to do, but what I want to do to get healthy, to be that person who for too long was screaming to get out.

Have not yet signed anyone up on Isagenix, but find myself sharing what it is doing for me, and have two or three people that I think might decide it is something they want to try in their life...that is exciting.  Find myself thinking about things like business cards, informational packets and handouts, all the things needed to more adequately share just what Isagenix is...in the meantime, I keep doing more reading, watching videos and spending time in the Facebook Isagenix groups. 

In my first week, I fulfilled the goals that I set out for myself, in some cases exceeded them...think on Monday it is time to set myself down and lay out a new set of goals to move myself forward on this new and exciting journey.  One of those goals...find out what I need to do to take those people who show interest, and get them to the point of saying, "Yes, I want that magic, sign me up."

It has probably been used already, but like the slogan, "Isagenix is changing lives one shake at a time."

The Sludge Report

Picture Taken on 5 Mile End Of Cleanse Walk

It is late here, and really should be asleep, but sometimes sleep does not come easy...even more so when you find yourself reflecting on dramatic changes taking place in your life and body in the course of just nine days...the time that I have been on Isagenix.  Just over one week, one Deep Cleanse, and though I still have a long way to go, feel like a new man in so many ways.

 

The title of this article, "The Sludge Report" really says everything about my own experience with my personal Deep Cleanse.  My sponsor told me how a cleanse works on a cellular level, told me that the Isagenix two day cleanse would be removing environmental and food product toxins from my body...OK, I'm game, lets give it a try.  It's hard to talk about poop...lets just say, that the materials that the cleanse ridded  me of in those two days (Tuesday and Wednesday) earlier this week literally reminded me of the sludge you see at a Sewage Treatment Plant...there was no doubt that something was happening, and that what was happening was a good thing...my body was being detoxicated!

 

Proper nuitritution thanks to what many have labeled a SUPER FOOD, my energy levels soaring as I went in the course of a week from feeling lethargic and tired to feeling energized, alive and mentally sharp.  Nine days, and this is what I have witnessed first hand so far:

 

1.  Mental Clarity...improved

2.  Weight...down...have lost 11.4 pounds (and not starved myself doing it)

3.  Total body inches...down...for instance, my thighs have lost almost two inches each.

4.  Energy levels WAY UP.

 

I am excited because I am SEEING RESULTS, results that I would not believe possible if I had not taken that leap of faith, and given myself the opportunity to be a product of the product.  I am looking forward to my second deep cleanse this upcoming Tuesday and Wednesday, am anticipating what reaching the next level in my own personal Isagenix journey is going to reveal.  Special thanks to my coach (Andrea Hameed), and all the wonderful folks on the Facebook Isagenix groups who are being the best cheerleaders and advice givers a person could ask for.

 

Isagenix is so much more than a group of products...it is a lifestyle choice, one I am happy to have made.

First Day of Deep Cleanse and Tenth Blog Post

It is 7:39 on this brisk fall Tuesday evening, and I am most of the way through what Isagenix calls a Deep Cleanse...the first of two I will do in my 30 day program to getting healthy.  How do I feel one might be tempted to ask, and I would say, "No different than I felt like yesterday, or the day before.

 

That's not quite true...

 

Surprisingly, a tiny bit hungry, but not HUNGRY, and sure when I have my fourth and final glass of the Isagenix Cleanse for Life of the day that my hunger will disipate again.  From a physical body perspective, this first day of my cleanse has not been as hard as I had imagined it to be...well, other than the drinking water part, as I have never been a big consumer of H2O...that said, have to say I am proud of the (so far) six pint glasses of water I have consumed today.  (That is 96 ounces for those wondering.)  I've not had an apple slice yet today, though have had two of the Isagenix chocolate treats so far. 

 

Managed my bike ride, something I have done five out of the six days since I started on Isagenix.  I've burned at least 160 calories a day in each of those rides, and covered at least 7 miles.  Today's ride was harder, had to push myself to get on the stationary bike and set the machine to its level 4 30 minute weight loss ride, but I did it, and ended up riding 7.1 miles and burning 165 calories.  Difference today from the other days so far...I felt and feel it, the ride sapping me a bit, leaving me feeling more than a bit running on empty.

 

Mentally and emotionally, it has been a HARD DAY...one has to be committed to the process, and one has to believe in that process, and for those of us early on in our journeys, believing in both the process and the product is one that has to be taken on faith.  On some level, think when we do this DEEP CLEANSE, based on some of the stories we have heard, that we expect it A) to be something very difficult to do, B) that during the process itself we are suddenly going to feel, and perhaps even look different, and as a result of A&B think C) that we perhaps hype ourselves up a bit too much and then when there is not that great burning bush to stare at, that great ah hah moment where we can say, "OMG, I feel so much better" or "OMG, can feel the toxins being stripped away at a cellular level and then that C is not there as a part of the day, it is hard not to feel a bit of a let down, not to see that faith falter a step or two.

 

Which is when perhaps I had my ah hah moment of the day.  Everyone knows it takes dicipline to accomplish our goals, but where does that dicipline come from?  What I came up with is, "the three D's of discipline theory...well, maybe calling it a theory is a bit presumptious, but when the thought popped into my head I liked it.  Here is the thought...

 

"Dicipline is the byproduct of our dreams, desires and dedication to a goal."

 

Too long for a bumper sticker, so thinking maybe express it as a mathematical equation D=d+d+d or the other way around, d+d+d=D.  Not a great bumper sticker, but best I can come up with 3/4 of the way into my first day of DEEP CLEANSE.  Think I will just stick to the Three d's of Disipline and call it a day.

 

Just quaffed my four and final glass of Isagenix Cleanse for Life and starting on a glass of water...think I can call my first day a success.

Twas The Night Before Deep Cleanse

Got My Fresh Picked Apples Ready

Just had a very nice Greek salad for dinner, coupled with one large iced tea (no sugar) and two tall glasses of water.  Sitting here now at home and contemplating my first Isagenic DEEP CLEANSE that will start tomorrow and go through until I awaken on Thursday morning."  Why am I thinking, "Lions and tigers and bears OH MY!...shades of Dorothy and the "Wizard of Oz"

 

So have my Cleanse for Life ready to go, have put my coach's number on SPEED DIAL and have my Isagenix Facebook groups now safely and easily accesible in my favorites list.  Water...need lots of water.  All in all, think I am ready for the first all important day...day two...not even going to think about that one until I wake up on Wednesday.

 

Thinking it might be a good idea to take my measurements before and after the fast only because I have heard some pretty incredible stories about what to expect during this cellular level cleansing.  Who would have thought just eight days ago that I would be writing about cellular level cleansing in a new blog dedicated over to my personal journey with Isagenic.

 

So, if you stop by, wish me luck, and leave any suggestions you have in the comments section at the end of this post.

 

Monday Monday...Day Five on My Isagenix 30 Day Makeover

Just finished my morning shot and a shake, and need to drink a glass or two of water...cannot believe how much water I am now drinking.  The overcast skies of yesterday are gone, the sun sparking on the last of the dew clinging to the leaves.  Took my camera out on a walk about and snapped a few photographs, sipping my coffee along the path. 

 

Trying to adjust to the changing feelings inside and outside my body, as well as the paridigm shift in my emotional/mental state of mind that goes along with suddenly having a sudden well spring of energy that seems to be coming from a newly tapped in reservoir, as if at almost 57 I have found the illusive "Fountain of Youth" that so many tales have been written about, heroes unknown always coming close but never quite finding that magic elixar. 

 

It is all a bit scary (in a good way)...At the beginning of day five of my 30 day quest, so incredible (almost impossible to believe) changes are taking place.

 

1.  My waist line is down 3 inches from 45-42.

2.  I got on the scale this morning, and my weight is down to 187.6 from 193 pounds.

3.  My appetite is changing...my morning routine for decades has been, wake up drink coffee (lots of coffee) and smoke cigarettes...LOTS OF CIGARETTES.  This morning I woke up, and was hungry for my shot and a shake, followed about half an hour later with my Isagenix Natural Accelerator.

4.  Find myself wanting to be active...active meaning I am looking forward today to going for a long walk with my camera, or doing my half hour ride on my stationary bike.

 

It is odd in a very positive way to be sitting here writing this post thinking to myself, who is this suddenly active man that has taken up residence in my body,

 

Everyone have a great Isagenix day, and if you find yourself wanting to turn over a new leaf, wanting to lose weight, wanting to rediscover that energy of youth we find ourselves missing, give me a call at (845) 693-4513 and let me share with you my testimony and introduce you to the life benefits of using the Super Food and the Super products of Isagenix that are reshaping the who of me.  Isagenix is not just a company, not just a group of products, but a way of life.

 

Sunday Morning Musings

Pre Isagenix Buddha Belly

 Wish I had some great epiphany to share with my readers, some great truth passed down from some Buddha I found sitting on mountain high...alas, no such enlightenment this morning.  Was busy working an auction yesterday, which saw me returning late in the evening.  My Isagenix 30 day cleanse is making good progress with a few important milestones to be noted.

1.  I have formally entered the Isagenix Body Challenge!...starting weight is/was 193.

2. Saw myself work out on my stationary bike for the third day in a row with yesterday my best ride yet with 193 calories burned, and a distance of over 7.5 miles.

3.  At the start of my fourth day on Isagenix product.

4.  Got on scale this morning, and starting (hopefully) a downward trend...more on this as I move forward in my journey.

My thought of the morning...beginning to realize that success can be noticed in little ways if you happen to become aware of your own small actions.  Example...Measured my waist yesterday morning and it shrunk just a titch, and I felt good about it.  A couple hours later I showered, dressed,  drank my shake then afterward went in to brush my teeth and noticed a small dot of chocolate had spilled on my bright yellow shirt.  I grabbed a washcloth and dabbed it off...suddenly realized that I cared about how I looked as I got ready to head out the door.  

What a concept...caring again about one's appearance, feeling good enough about yourself to care.  That to me is success.

If you would like to join me on my journey to better health, call me at (845) 693-4513
If you are wanting to lose weight, are looking for success in that endeavor, give me a call at  (845) 693-4513
If you are looking for a residual income selling great product give me a call at (845) 693-4513

Have questions about me, my blog or Isagenix please email me at isagenixguru@gmail.com

Starting The Journey...Moving Forward Means Looking Back

Buried Touring Bike

Slept way late today...a cold that was softly creeping finally caught me in my sleep so found myself this morning feeling more than a bit under the weather...still, wanted to start on my 30 day journey, did not want to see myself pushing it off, procrastinating until I lost my momentum to effect a change in my own personal appearance.  

On one level, this all seems pretty straight forward  Get your product, use your product and 30 days later be a product of the product.  Poured myself a shot of Ionix Supreme a bit ago, waited about 15 minutes and had a chocolate shake...not bad, reminded me of my youth when I would have chocolate malted milk for breakfast.   In the past half an hour have drank two glasses of water.   Can almost hear a drill sergeant calling out cadence...left, right  left right left.

Making a decision to pursue something like this makes you (deliberately or not) look backward on some of the things that got you too where you find yourself right now.  193 pounds (at least 30 pounds over weight) with a gut measuring some 45 inches around.  As a part of my journey have decided I need to do some exercise, which in turn saw me look into my storage room where both my bike and biking machine have sat ignored and lonely for far too long which then saw me asking myself, "Why"?

If you look over on the right side of the picture you'll notice the handlebar of a beautiful LeMond bike that I purchased several springs ago.  All these years later, and that bike has seen maybe all of 30 miles put on it...Why?

I hate crying...can almost hear my father saying, "big boys don't cry so stop your crying or I am going to really give you something to cry about.

Shortly after I bought that bike I was attacked.  I was kicked down onto steps, my right arm landing on the edge of a step just above my head.  A second kick struck that arm snapping the bone.  Was in a cast for six weeks, and then because the bone did not heal right so the bone was re-broken in surgery, a four inch titanium rod holding everything together, a second cast and another eight weeks of being a one left handed man.  Once the cast was taken off I was fitted with a wrist support and started into physical therapy.

Sitting here today after looking at the bike it is hard to realize that I have not been on that bike and gone out for a bike ride since the day of that attack, hard to realize that said attack and its aftermath is when I started putting on weight, and in many ways started hiding myself from the world, feeling safer locked behind closed doors.  That attack changed me...

New goal...as soon as I am done with this cold, need to put air in the tires of that bike and go for a ride.

Some Measurements:

Neck         16.5 inches

Forearms   12 inches (L) 12 inches (R)
Chest         40 inches
Diaphragm 40.5 inches
Waist         45 inches ...no wonder those size 38 feel so tight.
Buttock      39 inches

Thigh         23 inches (L)  23 inches (R)
Calf           16 inches (L)  16.5 inches (R)
Knee          15.5 inches (L) 15.5 inches (R)

Total Inches 356.5

4:00 PM  First Day Update

Made myself get on my bike machine and do a half hour workout.  Burned off 168 calories in what was clocked as a 7.18 mile stationary ride.

My Coach In Isagenix, Her Friends...A Testimony About The Heart Of Isagenix

Sometimes the cosmos has this wonderful habit of stepping in and changing lives...over the past few days since I was introduced to Isagenix have spent time doing a lot of reading on the site, and in several groups over on Facebook.  What drew me to investigate the company, and the opportunity it seemed to present was one woman, her story, her testimony.  There in front of me was a changed person, someone who had taken a journey of self discovery and change...there was no argument that her involvement with Isagenix had changed her in the most beautiful of ways.  As she explained it to me, she was successful with Isagenix for a very simple reason.  She was a product of the product, a woman who had reached the depth of despair, and climbed her way out to bask in the sunlight some 130 pounds lighter.

Isagenix is not just products, but about sharing, caring and changing hearts and souls...that point was made in a poignant way tonight when I read a post on Andrea's (my coach and sponsor) blog.  Her article about her friends in Isagenix speaks about change, but it speaks about the heart connections that the product made possible as three women all on the same journey met and became life long friends.  Below I have copied a brief snippet of her article...I encourage you to go visit and read the rest.

The Incredible Women of the 100 lb. Club

I met Linda Williams on the telephone - she living in Utah - and myself living in New York.  I had started my first facebook group and she was one of the first people that joined.