True Weight Loss is Worth the Wait

Weight loss can often feel like a long and daunting journey, especially for women, whose bodies, hormones, and emotional health all play a significant role in the process. There are so many quick fixes and fad diets out there that promise instant results, but true, sustainable weight loss is a much deeper, more personal experience. I believe that weight loss should be approached holistically—understanding that the process is not just about what the scale says but about finding balance within your body, mind, and soul.

Weight Loss is a Personal Journey—Be Patient With Yourself

One of the first things to understand when embarking on any wellness journey is that it is deeply personal. Everyone’s body is different. From genetics to hormonal fluctuations, the way your body reacts to weight loss efforts will be unique to you. The struggle with weight loss is often compounded by societal pressures and unrealistic standards. But the truth is, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution.

It’s easy to get caught up in comparing your progress to others, but remember: this is your journey. The key is to focus on the long-term vision, not the instant gratification. Sustainable weight loss is a slow process because it involves creating lasting habits that nourish your body and mind, not quick fixes that lead to yo-yo dieting. So, embrace the journey and trust that the progress you’re making—no matter how small—is taking you in the right direction.

Eat Enough, and Eat the Right Stuff

If you're looking for lasting weight loss, nutrition is one of the most important pieces of the puzzle. But here’s the catch: it's not about restricting yourself or cutting out entire food groups. It’s about fueling your body with the right foods in the right amounts.

Too often, women fall into the trap of undereating in an attempt to shed weight quickly. This only leads to fatigue, nutrient deficiencies, and an overall sense of burnout. In fact, if the body doesn’t get enough of the right nutrition, it sends signals to your brain until it gets what it needs - more often than not high carb because it’s lacking energy. Your body needs energy, and it needs the right balance of nutrients to function at its best. This means focusing on whole, nutrient-dense foods that provide both macronutrients (carbs, proteins, fats) and micronutrients (vitamins, minerals).

Some key principles to keep in mind:

• Eat enough: Your body needs adequate fuel to maintain energy, repair tissues, and regulate hormones.

• Eat a variety of whole foods: Think leafy greens, lean proteins, healthy fats, and complex carbs. These foods support your metabolism, reduce inflammation, and keep you satisfied.

• Mindful eating: Slow down and savor each bite. Mindful eating helps you tune into your body’s hunger cues and prevent overeating.

When you nourish your body with the right foods, your metabolism can run more efficiently, and you’ll feel more energised, rather than drained. You’ll be less likely to reach for that chocolate bar or chips mid-afternoon or late at night. The focus should always be on progress—not perfection. It’s not about denying yourself; it’s about nourishing yourself.

Movement: Progress, Not Perfection

Just like with nutrition, movement is a fundamental aspect of a healthy, balanced life. However, movement for weight loss doesn’t have to mean hours in the gym or extreme cardio sessions. In fact, the best form of exercise for your body is the one that feels good and is sustainable for you… and ideally, a little more than you did yesterday.

Movement should feel like a celebration of what your body can do, not a punishment for eating. Many women feel resistance to exercise because it’s often tied to weight loss expectations. But if you approach movement with the mindset of progress, not perfection, it becomes about your health and enjoyment rather than just burning calories.

Consider integrating the following forms of movement into your routine:

• Yoga or Pilates: These exercises improve flexibility, build strength, and reduce stress—all of which support a healthy metabolism and emotional wellbeing.

• Walking: A simple and calming form of movement that helps with circulation and digestion. Great to do with a friend too (who doesn’t love a chat?)

• Strength training: Building lean muscle mass can increase metabolism and help burn fat, even when you're resting (There are some great at home strength training videos on the internet that require no equipment)

When it comes to movement, consistency is key. It’s not about pushing yourself to extremes; it’s about finding what works for your body and sticking with it. Regular, enjoyable movement supports not only weight loss but also overall well-being.

Overcoming Resistance and Pain Points

We’ve all faced moments of resistance when it comes to weight loss. Whether it's emotional eating, self-doubt, or simply the temptation of a shortcut, there are always going to be obstacles along the way. The key is to keep moving forward, even when progress feels slow.

Success can feel tricky because we live in a culture of instant gratification, and it’s easy to lose sight of why we started in the first place. But the most important thing to remember is that sustainable weight loss is about progress, not perfection. Every small step forward is a victory. It’s not about running away from your current state; it’s about moving toward a healthier, more balanced version of yourself.

True Weight Loss is About Moving Toward, Not Away

I believe that true weight loss is about embracing your body and treating it with love and respect. It’s not about deprivation, quick fixes, or comparing yourself to others. It’s about a journey of healing and progress—where nourishing your body with wholesome foods, moving your body with love, and honouring your mind and spirit are the pillars of success. If you start to feel good, then this will flood your body with ‘happy hormones’ like dopamine and seratonin, and you’ll feel more inclined to stay the journey.

Every small step you take—whether it's adding a nourishing meal, moving your body a little more, or taking a moment to pause and breathe—adds up over time. The key to lasting change is consistency, not perfection. Focus on making one small change each day, week, or month. Maybe it’s drinking an extra glass of water, or swapping one processed snack for something more wholesome. These small, manageable actions help you build momentum and prove to yourself that you can do it. Celebrate those wins, no matter how small they may seem.

And if you misstep, that’s not a reason to quit. Life happens, and one slip-up doesn’t erase all the progress you’ve made. The real work is in how you respond to those moments. Be kind to yourself, as you would to a friend who’s struggling. Remember, it's not about beating yourself up—it's about getting back on track with compassion and patience. No excuses, just self-compassion. Keep going, because every small step forward counts, and you are making progress.