Following my frustration at not having lost any ‘inches’ despite losing weight, I began to feel despondency kicking in. I know myself well enough to know that I have to have tangible results or I quickly fall into a state of malaise which leads me back into old habits. Bearing this in mind I decided that I needed something to chivvy me along as I have a lot of weight to lose and I could do with support over the journey.
At first I was really stuck as to what to do and I considered online forums for support but I know that never having to meet anyone would mean I could quite easily not log on if I fell into the chocolate trap. Rather that stopping me from quitting anything online would just allow me to sneak away after my first ‘fall’. Next I looked at various slimming groups; I know this is a lifestyle change for me but group support would be really helpful. Having read information on a variety of slimming schemes I decided that the one that is most similar to what I am trying to achieve is Slimming World. Slimming World enables you to eat anything, in the right amounts, so it would enable me to progress with my plan of avoiding additives whilst using loads of fresh produce to cook.
With this in mind, I set out last night to my first meeting. I have to admit there was a moment, just outside the door, when I felt like coming home again as I was worried about being weighed and if I would be the biggest or oldest person there. I took a moment to breath and remember what the wake up call that prompted the decision to lose weight and how making this work is essential for my health. If I’m not healthy how can I be there for my kids?
When I arrived I was met by an incredibly friendly group of people; men and women, of all ages. I didn’t know that Slimming World have a plan that can be used by children from 11 – 15, who have free membership when they attend with their parent and there were children there. Some people were just there for weigh in and others were buying goodies from the shop. I was introduced to the leader, Mel, and she explained how Slimming World works to myself and another new member. We both stayed for the group session and I even won a prize of lots of fresh fruit, in the weekly raffle. At the end of the meeting I was weighed and I agreed my target weight with Mel. I haven’t chosen a target at the bottom of the range for my height but went for one that sits comfortably in the middle of the range for the BMI I should be.
So will I go back?
The meeting was positive, with lots of encouragement and support. The plan looks viable, as long as I remember to measure food and plan. It will enable me to keep aiming towards a healthy lifestyle whilst receiving support and incentives. There is no negativity attached to ‘falling off the wagon’ and support to change helps people move forward on their weight loss journey. I was really impressed and I will be back with for weigh in next Wednesday. Lets hope its a good loss!
ohanameans 