First Up: Face Your Demons I've always had a love for health and fitness -- but it wasn't always a healthy relationship. Throughout high school, I suffered severely from a negative body image. I became an anorexic who popped laxatives like a multi-vitamin. I limited my food intake to no more than 900 calories a day and spent at least two hours in the gym -- twice a day.
At my lowest point, I contemplated drinking the chemicals under the sink in order to purge. Before I could, my mother, who'd been suspicious about my behavior, staged an intervention that very night. I owe my health and (my life) the love of my parents, who helped me develop a healthy relationship with fitness by reminding me that the body is a vessel for living, not the reason for living.
Today, after years of meditation and practicing self-love, I am in a much healthier place with my body image. Still, any girl who's been down the anorexia path knows the demons are always looking for an excuse to come out again. This was my No. 1 fear with competing. It offered plenty of triggers for self-hate, self-doubt and eating disorders, and those close to me shared the same concerns. But I wasn't about to let that stop me from challenging myself, because to me that meant my demons had won -- and forget that.
So I dove into the opportunity headfirst, ready to tackle whatever this journey might throw at me. I knew I couldn't do it alone, and would need an experienced coach who would be sensitive to my triggers.
Ready to unleash your inner beauty junkie?
Enter your email and check the boxes below to get
free samples, exclusive deals, discounts at Total Beauty Shops,
and expert beauty tips delivered straight to your inbox!