Why Conventional Weight Loss Approaches aren't Working Long Term

Ah, the dreaded mantra of 'Calories in vs Calories out'—cue the eye rolls and collective sighs. We've all been there, right?

That sinking feeling when you've been diligent all week, only to step on the scale and find... nada. Zilch. Zero progress.

It's the ultimate frustration, isn't it?

The kind that makes you want to throw your hands up and dive headfirst into a tub of ice cream. Trust me, I've been there too.

That inner voice whispering, 'Why bother? Might as well indulge, have my cake and literally eat it too"

After two decades immersed in the world of calorie counting and 10 years teaching the traditional 'calories in vs. calories out' method, I've come to a revelation: while this approach holds some truth, it's akin to trying to solve a complex puzzle with missing pieces.

Let's explore some reasons why this seemingly straightforward method often falls short.

1 Relying solely on calorie restriction:

Sure, cutting calories can lead to weight loss, but it overlooks the deeper emotional connections we have with food. Addressing these underlying motivations is key to fostering lasting change.

Moreover, slashing calories too drastically can actually backfire, slowing down our metabolism and halting progress toward our weight loss goals.

It's time to shift our perspective. By understanding our food behaviors and beliefs, we can unlock a world where whole, natural foods aren't just seen as numbers on a scale, but as sources of nourishment and vitality. It's about embracing food as more than just calories—it's about feeding our bodies and souls with the nutrients they truly crave.

Our Mindful Eating Program addresses all of these needs. Check out our Free Training HERE

2: Rigid Diet Rules (that are someone else's)

It's time to break the mental shackles of "one-size-fits-all" eating plans that dictate how we SHOULD nourish ourselves.

There's NO one "right" way to eat—it's about finding what works best for you, embracing your unique needs and preferences. Most diets don't teach us how to connect to our inner wisdom - NOPE

Instead of conforming to someone else's idea of the perfect diet,  embarking on a journey of self-discovery can actually lead to long term results Explore what truly fuels your body and soul, and develop a profound appreciation for the nourishment your food provides.

This journey isn't just about what's on our plates—it's about cultivating a deeper connection with ourselves. Through self-reflection, mindful eating practices, and personal growth, we can foster a sense of harmony between our food choices and our bodies.

Let's keep it simple. Avoid getting caught up in overly restrictive eating patterns that can lead to unhealthy relationships with food and quite often binging.

It's time to Embrace balance, flexibility, and joy in your culinary adventures. After all, nourishing your body and honoring your well-being should never feel like a chore.

3: Shakes Bars and Fads

Let's get real: food is meant to nourish us, sustain us, and connect us to the world around us. Yet, in our quest for quick fixes and convenience, we've turned to shakes, bars, and fad diets that promise the world but often leave us feeling empty—both physically and emotionally. They can be a convenient stop gap, but for long term sustainable health - HMMMMM!

These processed products may offer a fleeting sense of satisfaction, but they lack the essential nutrients and vitality that whole foods provide. Worse still, they can disrupt our inner ecosystem—the delicate balance of microorganisms that inhabit our gut, known as the microbiome.

It's time to reclaim our relationship with food. Let's tap into our innate desire for whole, natural foods—the kind that nourishes not only our bodies but also our souls. By embracing the bounty of nature and the connections we share with those around us, we can rediscover the true essence of nourishment and vitality.

4: Punishing our Bodies

I've been working in gyms for 20 years and I'll tell you gone are the days of "no pain, no gain." Exercise shouldn't be a punishment inflicted upon our bodies—it should be a celebration of what our bodies can do. Yet - Some people didn't get that memo.

Forget the notion of "going hard or going home." Instead, let's explore the joy of movement in its purest form. Find activities that invigorate you, that make you feel alive and vibrant, rather than drained and depleted.

It's not about pushing yourself to the brink of exhaustion—it's about embracing movement as a form of self-care, a way to honor and nourish your body.

Whether it's a leisurely stroll in nature, a dance class that ignites your spirit, or simply incorporating more movement into your daily routine, discover what makes you feel truly alive.

Because movement should never feel like a chore—it should feel like freedom. This is how we find long term exercise or movement adherence my friends.

These Mindful Changes Transformed My Life

Losing over 20 kilograms (44 pounds) wasn't just about shedding weight—it was about rewiring my mindset and embracing sustainable, enjoyable habits. Instead of fixating on the number on the scale, I shifted my focus to behavior change, recognizing that true transformation starts from within.

I had to let go of the restrictive, deprivation-filled mindset that had governed my relationship with food for so long. Instead, I embarked on a journey of self-discovery, learning to collaborate with my mind, body, and the natural rhythms of life.

One of the most significant shifts was breaking free from using food as a coping mechanism. I found healthier ways to navigate stress and life's challenges, restoring balance and harmony to my daily existence.

Now, I'm passionate about sharing my journey and helping others rewrite their stories. As a guide and mentor, I empower individuals to break free from the shackles of diet culture and embrace a lifestyle centered around self-love, mindfulness, and sustainable change.

Join me on this journey of transformation. Together, we can uncover the joy of living in alignment with our true selves.

Larissa

Check out my Free Training What is Mindful Eating and How can it help me HERE