How to lose weight naturally
Hello, savvy ladies! 
As I sit here, reflecting on my journey from college chaos to a more balanced lifestyle, I can’t help but share the exciting transformation I experienced over the past few months. After my college graduation, I managed to shed 15 pounds in just four months, and let me tell you, it wasn’t about drastic diets or endless hours at the gym. It was about finding a routine that worked for me, and I’m here to share my secrets with you. So, grab a cozy blanket, and a cup of coffee or a glass of wine and let’s dive into how to lose weight naturally, the simple yet effective strategies that helped me reach my goals!
This post is all about how to lose weight naturally
My Weight Loss Journey: The Real Deal
Let’s rewind a bit. College life was a whirlwind of late-night study sessions, fast food, and zero sleep. Sound familiar? With all of the stress, unhealthy eating, and lack of sleep that came with the college life, I gained 30 pounds.
After graduation, I knew I needed a change. I wanted to lose some weight and feel like myself again. So, I committed to a plan that was both manageable and sustainable. While I am not back to my pre-college weight yet, I have made great progress. Progress that for a long time I thought I would never be able to make. Here’s how I did it:
Fasting: The 24-Hour Challenge
One of the game-changers for me was incorporating 24-hour fasts into my routine. Sounds intimidating, right? But hear me out—it isn't as bad as it seems. I started fasting 1-2 times a week. The idea is to give my digestive system a break and reset my metabolism. It's not about starving myself; rather a way to give my body the time it needs to heal and reset. I fast from dinner one day to dinner the next, making sure to stay hydrated, I aim to drink 100 or more ounces of water on my fasting days, and limit myself to one cup of black coffee in the morning. It's become a refreshing way to tune into my hunger cues and make healthier choices.
Walking with a Purpose how to lose weight naturally
You don’t need to be a gym rat to lose weight. I found my sweet spot with walking on the treadmill at an incline for 30 minutes, 5-6 times a week. It was an easy yet effective way to get my heart rate up without feeling like I was slogging through a grueling workout. The incline helped me torch more calories, and walking became a relaxing, almost meditative routine. Plus, it’s a great way to catch up on your favorite podcasts or unwind with some music! Sometimes, I even treat myself to catching up on my favorite Netflix show while walking.
Sleep: I Can't Stress This One Enough
I’ll be honest—sleep wasn’t a priority during my college years. Late-night cramming sessions took their toll. But once I graduated, I realized the importance of a good night’s sleep. I aimed for 7-8 hours a night (sometimes even more!) and it made a world of difference. Getting quality sleep is essential for weight management, as it helps regulate hunger hormones and boosts your metabolism. Also, not getting enough sleep can increase your cortisol, which is a stress hormone. When you have too much cortisol it cause weight gain and make it almost impossible to lose it. So, prioritize your sleep like it’s the VIP guest at your health party.
Hydrate, Hydrate, and of course Hydrate!
I made it a point to drink plenty of water throughout the day, especially on my fasting days as mentioned above. Staying hydrated is crucial for losing weight as it helps control hunger, improve digestion, and boost your metabolism. Plus, sometimes our bodies mistake thirst for hunger, so staying well-hydrated can help prevent unnecessary snacking. Aim for at least 8 glasses a day, and you’ll be well on your way to feeling refreshed and energized.
How You Can Achieve the Same
So, how can you apply these tips to your own journey? Here’s a step-by-step guide to get you started:
Incorporate Intermittent Fasting
Start with one fasting day a week and see how your body responds. Make sure to stay hydrated and choose nutrient-dense foods when you break your fast. If you feel like 24 hour fasting is too much to start out with, that is completely okay! Start with 12 hours and slowly work your way up to 24 hours.
Find Your Walking Routine
Set a timer for 30 minutes and walk at an incline. Listen to music, your favorite podcast, or even watch a Netflix show to make it a little more enjoyable. Try increasing your incline or your walking speed a little every week to keep it challenging and burn more calories.
Prioritize Your Sleep
Create a sleep schedule to wake up and go to bed at the same time. Your body will thank you, and you’ll feel more energized and balanced. Create an evening routine to help you wind down before bed and ensure you get quality ZZZs.
Drink More Water
Carry a water bottle with you and sip throughout the day. Aim for 80 ounces a day, you’ll be surprised at how much better you feel with proper hydration.
The Takeaway
Losing 15 pounds in 4 months was a journey of discovering what worked best for me and making those small, sustainable changes. It wasn’t about extreme measures but about consistency and balance. So, whether you’re just starting out or looking for a fresh approach, remember that small steps can lead to big results.
Check out Easy Healthy Lifestyle Habits You Can Start Today to start prioritizing your health in every area, not just weight loss!
Here’s to your health and happiness, savvy ladies! You’ve got this. 
