Something I’ve Been Struggling With

“Ever since I had my second child, I just can’t get back to my old weight or shape…” I tried doing sit-ups, bought a workout DVD by the popular trainer AYA, and even got on an exercise bike. I gave all sorts of things a go, but nothing ever stuck. I kept wondering, “I’m not eating all that much, and breastfeeding is supposed to help you lose weight—so why am I not slimming down?” Then yesterday, I finally figured it out.

Why I Haven’t Been Losing Weight

Yesterday was my first time taking the train to work in a while, now that the Obon holiday was over. It was pouring rain in the morning, and the packed train was so humid that sweat streamed down my back. When I got to Umeda, I walked through the underground passageways, but the air conditioning didn’t seem to be doing much—maybe because it was still early. As I walked, sweat poured from my forehead, my back, and pretty much everywhere.

“I haven’t sweat this much in ages,” I thought. I made sure to drink plenty of fluids (I probably drank about three liters of water yesterday), had a proper Japanese set lunch, and got home in the evening. After dinner, I snacked on some treats I’d bought in Umeda. Then I stepped on the scale this morning and…

I—I’ve lost weight…!

So I thought back over my recent routine. That’s right: I usually go everywhere by car, barely walk, and hardly ever break a sweat. If I took the train every day, or walked and took the bus to drop my daughter off at kindergarten, I’d get in plenty of steps and work up a sweat—and I’d probably lose weight.

So maybe I should stop driving the Panamera everywhere and get out for a walk once in a while.