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Episode Transcript

Hey there, it’s Ryann from the Food Freedom Lab. Today, let’s tackle a topic that’s been on many minds—weight loss. I’ve been getting a lot of questions about it, and it’s no surprise. The struggle with food often begins when we’re unhappy with our bodies, leading us to embark on diets. But here’s the thing: Is the desire to lose weight really helping us feel good in our bodies? Is it bringing the energy we crave? Let’s dive into this.

The Weight Loss Dilemma

Many of us have tried controlling our food because we’re unhappy with our bodies. But let’s question this: Does the pursuit of weight loss truly lead to comfort and energy, or does it drive us into a cycle of craziness around food?

Reflecting on Desires

Before diving in, ask yourself: How is the overwhelming desire to change my body actually contributing to my struggles with food? Could it be that the focus on weight is holding me back from my true dreams?

Going Deeper

Weight loss is often a surface-level goal. It’s not about the weight itself but what we believe weight loss will bring us—more love, approval, comfort, or less rejection. So, what do you really want? Is it something social or physical, or perhaps a bit of both? Get clear on your deeper desires beyond just losing weight.

Unpacking Social Desires

If your goal is more social, such as acceptance or approval, it’s about emotional healing. Dive into why you feel you can’t have those things in your current body. Challenge these beliefs and explore how you can start experiencing them now.

Physical Aspirations

For physical goals like feeling comfortable or energized, question the relevance of the number on the scale. Focus on building strength, nourishing your body, and adopting habits that align with your true desires.

The Deceptive Goal of Weight Loss

Weight loss isn’t a behavior—it’s a goal. Focusing solely on the number can lead to pitfalls. It might become more about the scale than changing your lifestyle, or you might change your body to fit a mental image, or worse, engage in unhealthy, unsustainable behaviors.

Challenging Beliefs

If you’re dealing with binge eating or disordered eating, clarify if it’s about weight or behaviors. Weight isn’t a behavior, so let’s focus on changing behaviors and thoughts. Challenge negative thoughts and appreciate your body, even if it’s a work in progress.

Shifting the Focus

Shift from the goal of weight loss to the goal of becoming the person who prioritizes feeling good. Consider who you want to become rather than what you want to achieve. It’s about small wins and proving to yourself that you’re more than your body.

Embracing the Process

Goals set the direction, but it’s the process that determines real change. Fall in love with the process of doing things that make you feel good. It’s about understanding that weight isn’t the answer; it’s about becoming the person who prioritizes feeling good.

Weight loss isn’t the ultimate answer—it’s a part of a broader journey. By understanding your true desires, challenging beliefs, and focusing on becoming the person you want to be, you can reshape your relationship with your body and food.

Links

🔗 Work With Ryann

🔗 Ryann’s Online Courses

🔗 Follow Ryann On Instagram