From an early age, my life has been intertwined with sports, a passion that led me to engage in a diverse array of athletic endeavours during my formative years. My vitality was undeniable until I became part of a traditional Hindu household upon marrying into a conservative family. In this new setting, health took a backseat, ushering in a phase of weight gain that marked a significant departure from my previous active lifestyle.
The arrival of my second child brought its own set of challenges during the postpartum period. Coping with the emotional upheaval, I resorted to excessive eating, embracing various "nutritional" beverages and protein-laden snacks in search of solace.
My Wake Up Call
My reflection in the mirror revealed a startling 115kg, a stark contrast to my previous self., I found myself far beyond a healthy threshold. This phase was further marred by the discovery of multiple health issues—Diabetes, Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOD), and Tuberculosis—which had gone unnoticed as I prioritised caring for my baby over my well-being.
Awakening to the gravity of my situation, I was resolute in my determination to overcome these adversities and forge a path toward a happier, healthier life. Imposing a strict regimen of diet and exercise, I embarked on a transformative journey that eventually saw me shed an impressive 60kg over two and a half years. Throughout this metamorphosis, I was struck by the realisation that my struggles were mirrored by countless others in their pursuit of weight loss.
Eager to make a meaningful impact, I took it upon myself to delve into the intricacies of nutrition, immersing myself in the study of dietetics and nutrition science. Empowered with knowledge, I sought to guide and support others on their weight loss journeys. Yet, of all the components that comprised my transformation, the aspect I cherished most was the art of the workout.
A workout, an orchestrated symphony of exertion, became a sanctuary for me, a realm where stress and tension melted away. In the context of weight loss, physical activity assumed a pivotal role in the journey, acting as a steadfast companion on the road to change. The path was far from smooth; I weathered the disdainful whispers about my pre-gathering meals and confronted societal pressures. In solidarity with my clients facing similar challenges, I always advocate for self-appreciation and the elevation of personal health to a place of reverence.
The trifecta of restful slumber, nourishing sustenance, and consistent exercise formed the bedrock of my weight loss endeavour. The glue that held it all together was unwavering consistency. Eschewing the allure of fad diets, I harnessed the power of a calorie-deficit regimen intertwined with intermittent fasting. This synergistic approach, underpinned by a consistent workout routine, proved to be the elixir for effective weight reduction.
Yet, even in my pursuit of transformation, I confronted a formidable plateau that lasted four to five months. The customary response, reverting to old habits, was categorically dismissed as I remained committed to forging ahead. The perseverance cultivated in my workouts became emblematic of my resilience, endowing me with the resilience to surmount any obstacles that life cast my way.
Central to my weight loss journey was the adoption of a sustainable diet anchored in home-cooked meals. While I occasionally indulged in cheat days, I ensured they were offset by subsequent intense workouts. For my clients, I emphasise the importance of balanced diets tailored to individual culinary preferences. Guiding them toward judicious sugar consumption, I aim to facilitate their journey toward well-defined goals.
The crux of my odyssey has crystallised into two guiding principles: consistency and sustainability. The imperative of crafting a routine that harmonizes with daily life and persists indefinitely has emerged as paramount. Transient ambitions are shunned in favour of endeavours that promise enduring metamorphosis.
Authored by Shikha Agarwal - Founder of Nurture, Health & Wellness Consultant
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