The Start of the Journey
When the user was battling bipolar disorder, her weight skyrocketed to 498 pounds. Over time, she managed to get down to 390 pounds before she started her official journey. At the age of 28 and standing at 5’9, she had always been overweight. She decided to make a change and aimed for a goal weight of 220 pounds, losing 120lbs.
Taking Time
Rather than trying to hit her goal weight as fast as possible, the user took time with her weight loss journey. It took over 2.5 years to lose the weight, but this helped ensure sustainability and made it easier to manage bipolar. Sustainability, as she learned, was key. She knew that depriving herself would only lead to binge eating, so she allowed for cheat meals and found healthier versions of her favourite foods.
Weightlifting and Mental Health
The user found that weightlifting not only helped her physique, but it also improved her mental health. She discovered that exercise as self-care worked, and this kept her on track. Additionally, she was less focused on the number on the scale because weightlifting toning was taking place.
The Importance of Ignoring the Scale
At some point in the journey, the user found herself hitting a plateau. She discovered that measurements and progress photos were much more valuable than the scale, and this became her new method of tracking progress. The user admitted a profound revelation: that the number on the scale is insignificant in comparison to how she feels, how her clothes fit, and how her body is shaping up.
Trying Things Out
The user’s story exemplifies the importance of taking things at your own pace, weightlifting for improved mental health, and focusing on progress rather than solely the scale. It’s worth mentioning that what worked for one person may not necessarily work for another, so it’s important to experiment and discover what works for you. Regardless, the journey is worthwhile, as it leads to better mental and physical health overall.
