She's Gotta Have It - Nia and Nika strike a Pose

Anyone else enamored with this mural in Fort Greene, Brooklyn? I immediately stopped and posed for a photo when I saw it a few Sundays ago. This past Sunday, Nia Long shared a photo of her posing in front of the mural, letting us know that she has to have it "all day everyday!"

Nia Long 

Me striking a pose!

#ProudAuntie: Solange Knowles Shares Adorable Photos of Blue Ivy

Today, Solange Knowles shared a #proudauntie moment by posting photos of her beautiful and uber stylish niece, Blue Ivy. Per Solange, Blue Ivy does her own photo efits, go Blue!

Look how mcuh, Blue Blue has grown. She's a beautiful and stylish little lady. 

Former Miss Jamaica Universe, Kaci Fennell, Marries Long-time Beau, Zachary Shirley

Congratulations to the beautiful couple!

Three Years of Fitness, Where I am Today + Body Confidence

Three Years of Fitness

Three years ago, I started my fitness journey and it has been one of the best decisions I made for my overall health. Not only did going to the gym and working out transform my body and help me meet my goals, I discovered the therapeutic benefits of fitness. On a tough day I look forward to exercise, which helps me to reduce stress and increase much needed endorphins (the body's natural happy chemical). 

A few years ago, I shared by struggles with body image and body confidence in my skinny black girl post.  Body acceptance eventually came, but it was a process, and one that started with me deciding to accept my body as it is naturally. With this newfound acceptance, I started my fitness journey, tailoring my goals to my natural build. In the process, I became stronger, healthier and more disciplined. I paid more attention to my diet and became more intentional about making better food choices. The journey hasn't been perfect, but no journey needs to be. I wasn't always consistent with working out and eating healthy, but each time I faltered, I forgave myself and got back up. You can read more about my fitness journey and routine here and here.

Body Confidence

I have reached my first few goals and feel more confident about my body than I've felt in years. When I look in the mirror, I see the reflection of a decision I made, of hours spent in the gym, of hard work and discipline and of me challenging myself. It feels great, and the confidence that comes with feeling good about your body motivates you to continue to make fitness a lifestyle choice.

Where I am Today

Today I continue to work out at least three times a week, and I have made new goals that I want to achieve. I no longer feel like a beginner in the gym and so I've tailored my routine to reflect my growth and new goals. Fitness for me now, is a lifestyle decision!

Are you on a fitness journey? How long? What are some things you've learned and/or achieved since you started your journey?

Cheers,

Nika