My Weight Loss Journey

By M

Bismillah

Ah, the tribulations of physicality, the ever pertinent topic of a woman’s weight.

What causes our obsession over it, how do we get it, how do we lose it, and how in the world do we keep it off?

Why do we gain weight? 

Many factors influence weight gain. It is an undefinable mixture of things that leads to its gain, varying from person to person, personal experiences and periods in life. A simple fact: food plays an important role in our daily lives, related to celebratory events, sad moments, unmanageable loads, or just as a past time.

We could each pick one or our own special concoction of reasons for eating at varying parts of our lives.

• Enjoyment of it and times of celebration 
• Unhappiness and the periods that lead us to comfort eat 
• Lack of self-discipline when we may indulge or when the opportunity poses itself 
• Age 
• Metabolism 
• Sickness 
• Laziness 
• Overindulging 
• A sedentary lifestyle 
• Sitting at a desk the entire day 
• Stress 

So how to get it off and keep it off? 

It really is both an easy and challenging endeavour  And doing it little by little but consistently is the key, really. Rather than making a huge effort with very little motivation to repeat, start somewhere.

Physical 

Low impact exercise. Yes, It is a great way to start. This could mean walking, light brisk walks, or gentle cycling through the neighbourhood  For instance, if walking is your exercise of choice, slow 30 minute walks about 3 to 4 times a week could be a solution. Gradual and eventual weight loss is healthier than dramatic dieting or over-exerting exercises. Personally, I found walking out in the open after sunrise, before the streets choke with the traffic of those rushing to work, provides a rewarding, calming and seriously enjoyable experience. The sound of birds and rustling leaves, babbling streams, and the fresh smell of the open air intertwined with floral scents- despite the occasional bad odour from litter- really is an experience to be enjoyed. Even admiring the beautiful architecture of homes en route tends to add to the charm. What becomes fun too is the appreciation and anticipation of it.

Eating right 

And just as important as consistent exercise, is the attempt to have a balanced diet. This does not mean one cannot indulge. If done correctly, one could manage to sneak in a little treat ever so often, but it is important to cut down ones regular dose of unhealthy, deep fried, sugar -laden options. For instance, instead of an ice-cream, try frozen yogurt. And indulge by adding a touch of a sweet topping. Dark chocolate is a perfect treat - healthy, without harmful sugars, and full of antioxidants. Try smoothies instead of milkshakes or tea, water and juices instead of soft drinks. A little substitution goes a long way.

Main meals should follow suite, again, cutting down on deep fried foods and substituting it with grills. Curries are fantastically and surprisingly healthy. They contain a large amount of cooked tomatoes, which are high in vitamins. And in its cooked state, it activates lycopene, an anti-carcinogenic. In addition, onions, good-for-you vegetables, are just as important. Grilled chicken, homemade burger patties and tomato sauces, a healthy dose of salad and sautéed greens still retaining their crunchiness are amongst the many foods one should include in a healthy diet.

And the main dishes of most cuisines can be modified to remain healthy but still retain the delicious identity of those dishes. Have fun and experiment. And eat less. Drink more water; hydration is key to the body’s cells functioning.

Attitude of gratitude 

Above all, try to develop a healthy positive attitude. Understand that our bodies are not meant to look like they do in airbrushed magazines.

We are individuals with different body types, sizes, bone structure, height and physical capabilities. Love the body you have and try to treat it with respect and care. Try to appreciate it for its miraculous structure. It is yours. Love it for the beauty it is.

I'd love to hear your views on this topic. Please post in the comments section below! :)

Posted in: Eating,Health,healthy living,M,Muazza,My Journey,weight loss