Transformation of the Day: Michelle lost 25 pounds. After facing the loss of her sister, mother, and father in just a few months, she experienced significant weight gain. Despite battling grief and depression, she found the strength to prioritize her health. Over the past year, she has found success with sustainable and healthy lifestyle changes.
Social Media:
Instagram: @cruisingtowellnessv
Tiktok: @cruisingtowellness
What was your motivation? What inspired you to keep going, even when you wanted to give up?
Losing 25 pounds has been a significant journey for me, and my motivation has come from a few key sources. Initially, I wanted to improve my overall health and energy levels. I realized that making lifestyle changes could lead to a better quality of life.
What kept me going, even during challenging times, was the vision of my goals and the small victories along the way. I found inspiration in tracking my progress and celebrating milestones, no matter how small. Additionally, support from friends and family played a crucial role; sharing my journey with them helped me stay accountable and motivated.
Whenever I felt tempted to give up, I would remind myself of the reasons I started and visualize the benefits of my efforts. It was about creating a sustainable lifestyle rather than just a quick fix, which helped me stay focused and committed to the process.
How did you change your eating habits?
Changing my eating habits was a crucial part of my journey. I started by focusing on whole, nutrient-dense foods and made a conscious effort to reduce processed foods. I cut back on sugary snacks and beverages, opting for fruits and healthier alternatives.
One significant change I made was reducing my salt and sugar cravings. To help with this, I incorporated a 1-day fast every Monday using a 3-Day JUICE + H2O Cleanse. This not only helped reset my palate, but it also made me more aware of how certain foods affected my cravings and overall energy levels.
Through this process, I discovered that I could enjoy a variety of flavors without relying on added sugars or excessive salt. It was all about finding balance and making choices that aligned with my health goals. Overall, it’s been about creating sustainable habits rather than following a strict diet.
What is your workout routine? How often did you work out?
I established a workout routine that includes a mix of activities. I aimed to walk at least 20 minutes three times a week, which has been a manageable and enjoyable way to stay active. While there were times when I missed that goal, I made an effort to get back on track as soon as possible.
In addition to walking, I incorporated some weight training to help build muscle and increase my overall strength. This combination of cardio and strength training has supported my weight loss and improved my fitness level. Finding a routine that works for me has been about consistency rather than perfection.
What was your starting weight?
243 pounds
What is your current weight?
218 pounds
What is your height?
I’m 5’8″.
When did you start your journey? How long did your transformation take?
I started my journey to lose weight in mid-2023 after experiencing a very challenging period in my life. In 2022, I faced the loss of my sister, mom, and dad, all within just a few months of each other. This profound grief led me to fall into depression, and as a result, I gained over 50 pounds by the beginning of 2023.
It wasn’t until mid-2023 that I felt motivated to make meaningful changes. The total transformation has taken over a year, and I’m proud to have lost 25 pounds so far. I still have 18-25 more pounds to go to be back in my desired weight range, and I’m focused on continuing my progress.
Is weight loss surgery part of your journey?
No, weight loss surgery is not part of my journey. I’ve been focusing on making lifestyle changes, including adjustments to my diet and exercise routine, to achieve my weight loss goals. It’s been a process of dedication and consistency for me.
What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned so far?
The biggest lesson I’ve learned so far is the importance of consistency. It’s clear to me now that making small, sustainable changes can yield significant results over time. Rather than aiming for drastic transformations all at once, focusing on gradual adjustments has made a lasting difference. This approach has not only helped me lose 25 pounds but also instilled healthier habits that I can maintain in the long run. Consistency truly is key to achieving and sustaining my goals.
What advice do you have for women who want to lose weight?
My advice for women who want to lose weight is to practice patience and persistence. It’s essential to focus on the changes you’re making rather than solely on the timeline. Celebrate every win, as each step forward is a significant achievement in your journey. Remember that progress takes time, and staying committed to your goals will ultimately lead to lasting results. Embracing the process can make a meaningful difference in your weight loss journey.
