Super Sized? Here’s The Skinny On Being Overweight In Montana

Finally, my own day!

I can't even begin to tell you how much I'm going to celebrate today, why you ask? Well, today is National Plus Size Appreciation Day.  Although I will be honest, I'm not real sure what we should do to celebrate such a day.  I mean, the obvious choice would be to eat something, but that's probably expected.

In all seriousness, here is the truth, being plus size is a pain.  Now, before you comment "lose weight", "join a gym", "go on a diet" or some other insensitive comment, realize that those of us that are overweight understand all of that. I've never met anyone that is overweight that wanted to be overweight.

It's a actual, physical prison. One that for many, increases depression and isolation.

First off, let's talk about finding and buying clothes.  It's difficult.  There are several options online, but you risk buying something that doesn't fit then you have to send it back, blah blah blah.  As far as local options, there aren't a whole lot to choose from in Bozeman.

There are options for both men and women in Billings and Missoula, but that's a bit of a drive depending on where you live.

Second, if you are overweight, you're certainly not alone. Obesity is a real thing in our country and more and more people are finding themselves becoming obese.  As someone who was born fat and has remained that way my entire life,  I can tell you this, there is no magic pill, there is no instant surgery, there is no one size fits all.

Some people are overweight because of a health issue, some are overweight because they are addicted to food.  For those that have a food addiction, I know a little bit about that. I've been on almost every diet, I've had weight loss surgery, and I've spent lots of money on therapy.  What I can tell you is this, it's a new day every day.  Everyday is a chance to be better than you were yesterday.

The chances of you waking up tomorrow and saying "I will never eat anything again that isn't healthy for me" is pretty slim.  However, the chances of you waking up tomorrow and saying, "today I'm going to do something that is healthy and will help me", well, that's pretty doable.

Living in Montana, I think those of us that are overweight are lucky in the sense that there are so many options to get exercise outdoors.

It can be intimidating going to a gym and trying to work out in front of people that look like they were sculpted from marble.  However, going for a walk on one of the many trails across the state, is a perfect way to get some steps in and do some good for our bodies.

Finally, there are several help groups out there, even some on social media.  So, if you aren't comfortable being vulnerable in a public setting, you can still get support online. Or, you can reach out to me.  I'm certainly not a professional, and have zero training, but I have been fat my entire life, and I know what that feels like.  Whatever you choose to do, know that there are a whole lot of people out there cheering for you, and I'm one of them.