What Dieting Won’t Teach You: My 100+ Pound Weight Loss Journey & Why it Worked

Spafinder Account Director Jenna Leveille shares the inspiring story of how she lost 100 pounds and changed her life. 
I was heavy for 13 years and yo-yo dieting made losing weight, and keeping it off, impossible. In August 2013, I finally made up my mind to commit to a plan and today by keeping myself aware and accountable and with the help of an amazing support system I am 139 pounds lighter! Of course, I fluctuate up and down a few pesky pounds but I have kept the weight off with hard work at the gym, better nutrition, and the help of my unwavering support system.
I never thought I would share my story, but I was able to get to the other side and want people to know that it’s never too late to change the course of your life. The first few weeks are the hardest, but once you break that barrier, you will start to crave your new healthier routine.

 

How did I change my life? First, instead of telling myself I had to lose over 100+ pounds, I started thinking about weight loss in 10 pound increments so it was more manageable in my head. I also donated my clothes as they became too big to wear. I never wanted to have larger sizes available as an excuse or an opportunity to get back into them. Plus I treated myself to a new workout outfit or jeans as I lost weight. It made me feel good and kept me inspired. I know that was an expensive way to stay motivated knowing I wanted to be smaller than the size I bought, but it worked!  And when I reached my goal I was able to donate those new clothes to one of our followers, which made me feel great.
I also discovered that simply moving and eating right created big changes in my life. I am always searching for a fun new fitness class to try and found it’s important to pamper myself with a mani-pedi or spa treatment as well. It’s about overall health and wellness and listening to your body –but rewards are important!
It’s a whole new world for me now and I hope my story will save people time and remind those who may have lost more years to being overweight than I have that, yes… you can do it!

 

In March, I had a hysterectomy, which slowed me down, but I’m working through not being fearful and am committed to push myself again when it is time to resume exercising. I’m so grateful for the support I’ve had at Spafinder during my recovery!

Life is a constant journey and I am happy I learned the lesson and lost weight by working out and eating the right things. No tricks or pills. Just hard work, dedication, and an amazing support system. After a feature on my journey was published in First for Women magazine, hundreds of people reached out. I created a free community page on Facebook –Getting Closer Every Day — to offer people encouragement and support. It is gratifying to see members of my support system and people from around the world post and send messages.
The most important messages I’d like to share with you are to make yourself accountable and grab on to everyone that supports your goals. Change can be hard not just for yourself, but others around you. So it’s important to stay the course and run to your supporters when you need help. There will be days when you make mistakes and give into temptation but that okay as long as you don’t fall back into old routines. (This is real-life folks, and we still have to enjoy ourselves from time to time.) It is important to find the balance between your new ways and old ways.
Starting weight: 269 pounds
Weight loss: 139 pounds
Goal: Fit and fab

 

Share our free community and join us!  Accountability Fitness Group

At Spafinder Wellness 365 we believe that wellness comes from within and without. That’s why we’ll always bring you the best content to inspire you on your way to a happier you! To stay updated and get early access to exclusive offers, sign up to receive Spafinder emails.