I began a weight loss journey in April 2021, prompted by not much else fitting outside of yoga pants.

Loaves of banana bread being made, wine, lots of wine, and a host of other calorie-ladened food, long days of Zoom meetings, and nights of Netflix and Chill, were to blame. I jokingly referred to my weight gain as PPP (Pandemic Pound Problems).  2020 pandemic lockdowns and the freedom to work from home resulted in a few excessive pounds making themselves feel at home within my body.

I knew this wasn’t healthy for me, but like so many others, I kept kicking the need to change these habits down the road to tomorrow, the next week, to the next month…And then it was April 2021.
By then, I had become sick and tired of being sick and tired and knew I needed to do something about the situation. Quickly.

As we get older, losing weight isn’t as easy as it may have been back in college, or before children. Sluggish metabolism, hormonal changes, and other challenges kick in for most of us during the prime of our lives.
An upcoming birthday served as motivation to begin kicking some pounds to the curb, and the weight loss journey started mid-April.  I called it 31 lbs Down By July 31st.

Much to my surprise, two weeks before my birthday, I hit my goal. I then decided to exceed it (the competitor in me I guess), losing another pound (total weight loss 32 lbs.)
My birthday weekend was fabulous -very food-focused, though, and to no surprise, I gained 3lbs back. But shortly after my birthday, I resumed my regimen, and 1.5 lbs of the gain are gone. I’m pretty sure the other 1.5 lbs will be gone in another week as well.

Why I Am More Confident During This Weight Loss Journey

Unlike previous weight loss attempts, it was effortless for me to get back on track because what I’m doing now is not a diet. I have simply adopted a healthier lifestyle, and I actually love it. I don’t eat less; I eat BETTER.
Many have asked how I did it, so I took a moment to share the top 10 things that worked for me in a short video clip.

Keep in mind that because they worked for me, does not mean it will work for you. Everyone’s body, metabolism, physical condition, etc., are different. Always seek medical advice before beginning a new health regimen.

While I understand the health benefits, I’ll NEVER be labeled a gym rat. But even I found things to do that held my interest and contributed to my weight loss.
Increased plant-based foods (no, I am not a vegan but I consume much less meat and primarily only chicken), avoiding processed, fast foods, calorie consciousness (labels are our friend) are huge components of my regimen these days. As an empty nest mom, I have reactivated my cooking skills and have become very creative in the kitchen. I even introduced some of my new dishes to my family during a recent visit. My favorite marine joined me for air-fried sweet potato fries and eggplant last night and he loved it.

I’m happy, more energetic, and proud of my focus and dedication. Mindset is everything. Oh, and I’m finally out of the yoga pants seven days a week.

I am aging gracefully, flying ageless, protecting my midlife temple at all cost.

Do you have a similar journey to share? A health-related goal to set?