Summary
I have intended to compose this article for several months now (albeit with a slightly different title), but considering it is nearly six months to the day since our visit to Ibiza, where I engaged in a week of indulging in exquisite Spanish cuisine, followed by a week of fitness and an unexpected amount of enjoyment at The Body Camp in Ibiza, I deemed it crucial to provide you with an update on my subsequent journey of weight maintenance after experiencing considerable weight loss within a mere week.
I do not endorse quick-fix remedies. While I favor prompt resolutions, I regard them as effective only if they are enduring. Whenever possible, I prefer to rectify an issue and eliminate ongoing concerns. This sentiment serves as both an excuse and rationale for my avoidance of extreme diets, rigorous workout routines, or any form of weight-loss strategy that is unsustainable.
As you are aware, Lloyd and I experienced notable weight loss during our time in Ibiza (alongside a reduction in body fat), but more significantly, I sought to discover a method to maintain my weight loss, remain attuned to the lessons I had acquired, and simultaneously enjoy a varied diet! In essence, my aim was to indulge in my desires without compromise.
Day One…
Upon arrival, my first stop was Burger King! While I could assert that the limited options at Ibiza’s airport were to blame (a true statement, given the off-peak season we visited), the reality is that I bypassed at least two establishments offering healthier alternatives and opted for a meal that likely rivaled my daily caloric intake for the entire week at The Body Camp.
I cannot deny that it felt satisfying! I experienced absolutely no regret. It was precisely what I desired, marking a welcomed return to normalcy outside the comforting atmosphere of The Body Camp (which featured a professional chef in a luxurious Ibiza residence—certainly a life of luxury!).
Week One…
Nevertheless, a transformation occurred once I returned home and carried out my weekly grocery shopping. I became increasingly conscious of my selections, consciously avoiding the candy and snacks aisle. I recognized that these are items I would consume only if present at home, yet I would not miss them if absent from my pantry. Rarely do I find myself saying, “I urgently desire popcorn right now…” but if I possessed a family-sized bag of popcorn (those large bags), I would likely consume at least two in one sitting. (I previously would evaluate the calorie count and reason, “Well, it’s merely 500 calories per bag, so two bags total just 1,000 calories…”).
Making smaller, healthier decisions like this yielded significant results, as I did not drastically alter my diet; instead, I eliminated superfluous items that were unnecessary. (I still indulged in wine and beer, naturally).
By the end of week one, I had managed to maintain my weight, despite enjoying my wine and adhering to a relatively similar dietary plan.
Month 1…
Fast forward to the conclusion of the month. The assurance gained from not gaining weight during the first week encouraged me to continue with my routine, allowing for an occasional glass of wine and carbohydrates. Nevertheless, I maintained healthier choices—incorporating more greens and vegetables at home. I replaced sweets with fruits and, crucially, avoided eating when not hungry! (In earlier times, I typically served myself excessive portions and spent considerable time struggling to finish the food on my plate—I often prepared 6-inch high servings of spaghetti bolognese solely for myself).
Additionally, I persisted with physical activity. Admittedly, not to a significant extent. I managed at least two 20-minute sessions of running… and by ‘running,’ I refer to brief spurts of two minutes followed by three minutes of walking. None of it could be classified as athletic, yet the inspiration to engage in physical activity stemmed from the sunny weather. Regardless, I did it, so it counts, right? (Especially considering I had invested in new running attire and shoes, so I figured they should be utilized).
At the month’s conclusion, I had lost another 3 pounds! I am uncertain how this transpired, as I truly did not feel as if I had exerted considerable effort, yet the scale revealed the reality—evidence that minimal changes can generate substantial results.
If you recall from my previous entry, I had encountered difficulties in weight management over the years (though, admittedly, my efforts were inconsistent). My weight had consistently risen without decline (I can remember times not too long ago when my waist size was a mere 28, well beyond my teenage years). Losing 3 pounds in one month, alongside the weight I had already shed, resulted in a total loss of 11 pounds thus far.
6 Months Later…
Fast forward to the present, I acknowledge that I have become considerably more indulgent compared to my initial month. Frequent travel limits my dietary control, and as someone who infrequently exercises (I believe I have since run once more from that time until now), I feared I might have started accumulating what I fondly refer to as my ‘winter weight’. 🙂 (*Interestingly, I typically gain winter weight in the summer or fall, not winter… 🙂 ).
Upon stepping on the scale a few days ago, I discovered that in addition to the previously lost 11 pounds, I had shed another 3 pounds! This brings my total weight loss to 14 pounds—equivalent to one stone!
I acknowledge that a 3-pound weight loss over five months is neither remarkable nor extraordinary; however, my current weight is the lowest I have maintained for some time. (Georgia and I have tracked our weights for over five years using identical scales, creating a historical record of our weight fluctuations).
Reflecting back, the primary change has been my heightened awareness of my choices. Simple adjustments are vital. Do not overindulge at breakfast for fear of excessive hunger during lunch; address hunger when it arises. Satisfying cravings for family-sized popcorn is permissible, but avoid making it a daily habit! Furthermore, never allow yourself to reach too hungry a state, as this often leads to poor food decisions. (Admittedly, I may not have reduced my wine consumption as much I claim…).
A photo posted by GoTravelDaily (@handluggageonly) on Oct 6, 2016 at 5:50pm PDT
Moreover, another significant benefit I noted earlier was how the experiences in Ibiza (such as the challenging 12k uphill hike) profoundly transformed my mindset regarding physical challenges. This shift was crucial in my ability to undertake strenuous activities, such as hiking at high altitudes with scarce oxygen, to the Rainbow Mountains in Peru. This was a challenge I would never have considered in the past, and this transformational mindset has enabled me to embrace and experience so many more adventures while traveling.
A video posted by GoTravelDaily (@handluggageonly) on Oct 14, 2016 at 5:07am PDT
To conclude, the purpose of sharing this post was primarily to illustrate how minor adjustments can lead to substantial outcomes and underscore the importance of initiating changes toward your desired goals today, no matter how small! 🙂
