Introduction:
Weight loss is more than just a physical transformation; it’s a mental decision. As Toni Sorenson wisely puts it, “Weight loss doesn’t begin in the gym with a dumbbell; it starts in your head with a decision.” In this blog, I share my personal journey of rediscovery and transformation at the age of 57, navigating through the challenges of menopause, retirement, and empty-nest syndrome.
Body:
At 57, my body felt like a foreign entity. Menopause, retirement, and the emotional rollercoaster of an empty nest had taken their toll. The clothes I once comfortably wore no longer fit, prompting me to face the reality of my changing shape. In an attempt to escape negative emotions, I turned to food as a distraction, which only exacerbated my physical and emotional well-being.
My bones had started to ache. Just getting up off the couch became a chore. A stroll in the park that usually took 30 minutes started to take a bit longer. Negative thoughts tried to stand in the way of me becoming the healthiest version of myself.
Facing the Mirror:
Then that fateful evening – I was getting dressed to attend a charity gala with my husband and had planned to wear a dress I had worn to a wedding the previous year. I was horrified when it would not zip! That moment of shock propelled me to make a crucial decision – to choose myself.
“Do I try to get accustomed to this new shape that doesn’t enjoy life as much?” I thought.
“Absolutely not!”
I embarked on a journey to reclaim my health and happiness, rejecting the idea of settling into a life of discomfort and dissatisfaction.
The Intentional Process:
After trying a few “quick fix” diets, I realized that there’s no “one-size-fits-all” solution or magic bullet for instant results. Taking care of oneself is a deliberate and intentional process. I adopted a systematic approach, focusing on counting macros in Cronometer, daily exercise, and journaling to hold myself accountable.
Carnivore Diet Success:
My chosen path was the Carnivore diet, involving a careful balance of 160g of protein, 65g of fat, and 15g of carbohydrates daily. This isn’t just a temporary fix; it’s a lifestyle change. I discovered that a successful “diet” isn’t about losing weight temporarily but learning to eat right for oneself and maintaining it as a lifelong commitment.
Meal Planning for Success:
To make the journey smoother, I emphasized the importance of weekly meal planning and preparation. Making food predictable and routine allows you to eliminate the drama around eating, leaving room for a more exciting and fulfilling life.
“Make your food boring and your life exciting!”
Moving Towards Fitness:
In addition to dietary changes, incorporating physical activity became a cornerstone of my transformation. Starting with small steps, like short walks, I gradually increased my activity levels. Investing in a trainer taught me the proper techniques for weight lifting, which not only transformed my physical state but also boosted my mood and sense of purpose.
Resetting Metabolism:
To further enhance my transformation, I made the conscious decision to eliminate sugar and processed foods from my life. This not only aided in weight loss but positively impacted my overall well-being by resetting my metabolism.
Conclusion:
Choosing oneself is a powerful decision that can lead to transformative change. My journey proves that weight loss and a healthier, happier life start with a conscious decision. By adopting a personalized approach to nutrition, exercise, and self-care, anyone can embark on a journey towards a better version of themselves. Remember, the power to transform is within you—choose you!
Key words: Empower, Healthy journey, Transformation, carnivore diet, meal planning, fitness, reset metabolism