Fasting, in its simplest explanation, is "not eating." And yes, it really is that straightforward, but also yes, it can be very challenging if you're not properly set up for success.
So much of what we've been told by the diet industry has resulted in so much more confusion than actual results. There may be infrequent and inconsistent short-term success, but they often result in long-term frustration and incomprehensible levels of self-doubt, especially when we don't correct or address the reason that caused the need to start.
"How could it be that skipping a meal (or two, three, etc.) would lead to reaching your weight loss goals? Isn't it something that can *wreck* your metabolism? Don't you need to eat at least 3 small meals a day, and high-protein snacks in between?" -The Skeptics
So many times, every single week, I get asked about the specific method that I used, many wanting to know EXACTLY what hours I fasted, how many times in a certain method a week, etc.
While I am certain these questions come from folks with the best intentions, I always find myself needing to refrain from answering their question in a "matter-of-fact" sort of manner.
My real, instinctual, and unapologetic answer to those folks would be this:
Please stop over-thinking and over-analyzing this lifestyle.
Fasting works because we are allowing these periodic moments of bodily rest from constant food consumption in a society that works so hard to sell us on the idea that we need to be eating from sun up, to sun down.
Hyper-fixating on doing the exact method/timeline I used to get my results won't work for you, because I am me, and you are you! :) This journey is meant to be savored slowly in the present mind, not hurried or wished to be done already.
As I have discussed before, it is SO IMPORTANT to understand what this process is all about! (*insert shameless plug for my official "The Fasting Focused Lifestyle Handbook*, NOW ON SALE)
No, you don't *need* to go full fasting nerd like me, but it will be to your highest benefit to understand the basic nuts and bolts of this powerful lifestyle tool.
What I would say instead as a kind and helpful reply:
Establish consistency from the start, you are teaching your body a new healthy habit.
Remember, hunger pangs are a learned behavior. You are consciously and deliberately re-training your body to get used to using its backup form of fuel, body fat.
The sooner you stop associating excess body weight with negative connotations about you personally in any capacity, the smoother the road to maintenance will be.
Success with this lifestyle is not linear. Instead of ferociously attaching your expectation to be quick and easy, embrace the unexpected of what this journey can bring. Yes, some days will be FREAKING EPIC, and some days you will feel emotionally challenged. (This is why you need a fierce reason why)
Stop expecting massive mind and body changes to improve in a rigid timeline, especially when you're overlooking the need to address your mental weeds.
But above all, I would say, come into each and every start of your day with the utmost gratitude and love for your body, regardless of where you are now, realize that your body truly is a multi-million-dollar smart house, that your soul gets to live in.
Are you grateful for the body you have? What do you want the rest of your life to look like? You still have time to improve your health and longevity. ✨💛
As always,
I Believe In You, Even If You Don't.
Take Care of yourself,
VS
If you are in need of supportive coaching on your journey, I am here, I care, and I know you can do this... Check out my services page, including my special promotional bundle, 30-days of fasting support, (4) 30 minute consults with me, AND The Fasting Focused Lifestyle Official Handbook download
