I think we sometimes forget self love also means self discipline. If we had a child, for example, we probably wouldnt let them eat ridiculous amounts of dessert. Or when they ask for a cola we would occasionally give them some water. Or instead of a pizza tonight we're having 'chicken' & veg. Today we'll take a vitamin & nice walk, instead of watching tv. Y'know?.. Im not a parent but im starting to learn that i am, in a way, caring for someone child (myself). Its not always about indulgence, there is a balance. THAT is self love.
This was so well explained, I have made similar dietary and lifestyle changes (although I've not dragged myself to the gym yet, I'm just focusing on moving my body and getting outside (I too bought a paddleboard this year))), and have lost 16lbs in 16 weeks, consistently. And at this point it doesn't feel like a diet, it's like I've just taught myself what my body actually needs. I didn't discuss it with anyone, I just woke up one day and started after putting it off for a long, long time. Never been prouder of myself.
Helen I’ve watched you since I was a little lass learning about purple hair. You inspired me then, and you inspire me now. I’ve been on my own journey recently with health and wellness and it’s so epic to see you doing the same ❤
You speak about this topic with such nuance and sensitivity. Thanks for mentioning mobility and health issues, as a chronically ill girlie struggling with this very thing I appreciate it ❤️
I have the good old underactive thyroid and have found it very helpful to do it in stages, small calorie deficit for 6 months, lose 20lbs (or whatever), learn what that means for maintaining that, maintain for a year, then repeat the process however many times. 5 years on I've kept the weight off. I also very slowly realised cardio is just crap for weight loss, but exercise in general is great for brains and maintaining mobility while we age.
As someone else with ADHD, I am so happy to see that you managed this and it worked so well for you. The thing I struggle with is getting dopamine from snacks and foods. Even though my diet is very balanced, lots of healthy things, I overcompensate portion sizes and fix boredom and dopamine fixes with food! Time to change :)
i really needed this... thank you helen. i am currently the heaviest i have ever been, and im struggling... i think this video is my sign to just start.💝
Hi Helen! Thanks for sharing your story with us! You are such an inspiration, you don't even know! I remember seeing you posting last year when you started this journey and I love that it's now apart of your everyday life and who you are. I went through a break up at the beginning of this year and your videos from when you started have really been helping me stay positive and get through it. c: I'm still on my journey when it comes to weight loss and I don't talk to anyone about it. So it's lovely to hear how you've been getting along and progressing. ALSO YES THE MUSCLE GAINS ARE THE MOST EXCITING PART! Now that I've got the activity down, I'm going to try the TDEE calculator. I'm super nervous but think it would be worth trying! I have 3 stone (mostly my tummy and butt LOL) I want to loss and it's been a huge struggle. Stay strong, keep being you and thank you for all your advice!
I needed this! You have honestly been such a huge inspiration for me in learning that this journey is meant for me not others and I will get to it in my way and it’s not a race! I’ve been going the gym consistently 6 days a week this last year and feel incredible and even now confident to get tattoos that I have wanted for a while on my arms now that I see them being toned. Thank you ❤
Your previous videos on this really inspired me. Your mindset shift and motivation just felt different from other weight loss/fitness videos and it clicked with me. I showed my partner your other videos last year when I said I wanted to really embed changes instead of flaking out all the time. I want to build trust with myself and feel stronger. Weirdly enough, my partner asked if you were still killing it while we were both climbing down a mountain in Scotland last week 😂. Neither of us would have been climbing the mountain if we hadn't started our "let's just do it" plan last year. Thank you for speaking in a way that clicked with us. And your arms look fire 🔥😍
Helen, thank you for explaining the effect of your medication on your journey! I've been taking an adhd med for years and still struggled with my food intake. This spring, I began to actively work on my eating habits and fitness, and despite the work I've put in, some people close to me have mentioned that the medication must be a large factor on my weight loss. It feels demeaning to my process, but at this point I recognize it doesnt matter, as long as I stay the course!
i've watched you for so many years and i absolutely love that any time you talk about weight loss, exercise, life changes or anything its always a focal that its for your health and about doing what's right for you and especially with weight loss, it's about getting fit and being a healthier version of yourself and giving your body the right stuff not about fad diets! you've always been and continue to be such and inspiration for me and right now i'm on similar health journey and this just makes me more excited to continue it! SO much love for you Helen!!! ❤❤❤
I used the same tdeecalculator as you, i've lost 65lbs in a year! It's definitely taught me so much. Being able to enjoy the treats for birthdays etc and understanding there's no such thing as "bad" food is huge. Knowing that having a high cal day doesn't have to lead to giving up because you've "ruined" it and just getting back to it.
The bit where you say you talk as if you were a crew of people - I LOVE THAT 😂 do things for the morale of the crew aboard! I find this video very inspiring, especially as someone with ADD myself. It’s the - sometimes we do need to do hard things and push through - that I have always struggled with, in every aspect of life actually. Thanks for your insights, you rock! And also congraaaaats on your arms Helen!! Feeling strong and also seeing how strong you’ve become is such a rewarding feeling 🎉
I call it ‘only eating when I’m hungry and stopping when I’m full’ after so long of yoyo dieting I really needed to have a good talk with my self and get on a sustainable track. You look amazing and I’m glad you feel great too!
You just motivated me more to keep on going with my lifestyle change. I was getting off track but this helped me a lot! Love your accent i could listen to you all day! ❤
Really useful video! Perfectly put and exactly what i needed, 6 weeks into a lifestyle change and so easy to slip back into bad habits but it’s about reminding yourself why, and as you put it, being at peace with! ❤ thank you!
Helen you are a rock star! I am endlessly impressed with everything you do. You have such a good mindset. Building muscle and feeling strong is just the best feeling. When I do deadlifts I think this will help me pull up my pants when I’m 90 years old. Working now for my future self
You look amazing. I saw how hard you worked in the gym without seeing much difference. It’s always diet that does it. Now you can see your gains. You’re so dedicated you’re a great role model!
I'm on my weight loss journey now and I also lost around 3 stone, but within 2 years. I'm still trying to lose like at least 20 more pounds hopefully by next year. This video is motivation to keep at it. I'm doing most of the things, but it's great to hear reminders and keep full steam ahead. Thank you for sharing!
i really enjoyed hearing your thoughts in this video. i’ll be honest i’ve been following you for years and at times the way you’ve talked about dieting and fitness in the past has really put me off. i can clearly see how you have reworked your mindset toward food and exercise to make positive change for yourself, it’s super inspiring! you succinctly explained things and weren’t making excuses or being defensive, it was all coming from a place of wellness. your words resonated with me as i’m on my own health journey, i’ll be coming back to this video to help keep a healthy mindset. thanks for making this update ♥️💪✨
Brilliant video. Everything you are saying is spot on! I started in a calorie deficit and joined the local Uni gym - 5 weeks in 19 pounds down. My MH is vastly improved! Win win win!
I felt this video so hard, I’m currently going through this journey with a thyroid condition called graves disease and it’s 100% mentality, and making those hard but good choices aligned with your journey. The message of eating healthy should be a treat! Thank you for this! 💪
Thank you for this! You worded this so well! I’m week 2 of a lifestyle change & this has resonated so much with me. Consistency & moderation are key. I always fell back into bad habits because I thought I was missing out by not having the cake, I love what you said about honouring the promise I made to myself💜
Thanks for this video hun, your mindset on it all has really helped me see things so differently - after a 2 month hiatus from my plan I was on after a holiday, I've been mentally feeling so guilty! But after watching you I feel good about where I can go with things x
Watched this late last night and just popped back to say thanks. So helpful. I still remember watching your video before about how you manage a calorie deficit in the week and stuff and it was so helpful. I've been trying to lose weight for a while and have recently fallen off. Definitely need to re-set my mind set and this video was so helpful and relatable so thank you. Def keeping it to listen to when I need a chat w myself!
Thank you for sharing bits of your journey with us, Helen! You've inspired me to try new things and I even signed up for a spin class today. Absolutely loved it!
Hi Helen! Thank you for sharing with us this process. I always thought that you look beautiful, but now see you look good and hear that mentally you are feeling good, makes me so happy for you! I share with you some of the points you talk about moderation to eat and not feel guilty for that or feel bad because not wanting to eat something the family insists me (for example) and I think this is the key for keep eating only what you need. I hope you understand my little broken english haha, greetings from Mexico darling 💜✨
When I got put on my ADHD medication, I still gained weight. Yeah, it would suppress my appetite at the beginning of the day but then when it wore off in the evening, I would gorge. Now I am down to 222lbs and still on the medication but I lost 50lbs because I changed how I ate, started exercising and started drinking a lot more water. People just love to hate and not give people their flowers for all their hard work. Like so many people in the comments, I have been following you since I was a teen. You have always been an inspiration to me and I have always thought you were beautiful. Super jealous of how killer your arms look!! I have always accepted my body for what it is, but my arms are definitely a point of contention for me. I know they will get smaller while I continue to lose weight but can't wait to get rid of the extra jiggle. Having tattoo sleeves makes me feel better about them though LOL!
You said some really wise shit in this video Helen!!! Loved it really inspiring and completely made sense to me- just get on with it and don’t make it a thing! Loved it ❤
I have lost 1.5 stone so far this year. I have months where I yo-yo a lot due to stress, anxiety and just being too exhausted to look after myself (mum of 11 year old twins with additional needs here!) but your words and this video are so inspirational! I’ve set myself a September challenge to lose at least another 5lbs in the month (hopefully half a stone but let’s be realistic!) my starting weight was 14 stone which was the heaviest I’ve ever been at the start of January and I hope to get down to below 12 by November and then hopefully 11.5 by my birthday in mid January! Losing weight is so hard and you really do have to be in the right mindset. I love exercise but have to be careful with my back and knees now. I did two marathons in 2019 but had to stop running after that due to my knees… I say did and not run as I did a mixture of run/walking and I was very slow! But even with the 21lb weight loss this year I’m still a stone heavier now than I was five years ago.
Currently on the same journey. I’m there with the mindset 100 percent and actually calorie deficit has been so easy. I’m eating less calories but I’m eating more food because I’m eating better and making better choices. Although your aren’t a nutritionist or professional you have put this across so well. You look amazing. Thank you for sharing this
What a great vid to start my morning, you made so many valid points, it's hard to highlight just one, but I stayed to the end. You remind me a little of Adele in one of her chats, so down to earth and relatable. You look fab :)
This video is absolute perfection. I've been on a 'fitness journey' since 2022 and am the slimmest and most muscular I've ever been - this is me for life now and I got here doing everything you mentioned in this video. It really is about mindset more than anything - you've got to want to change more than stay the same and yeah, discipline is a massive part of it. I think the issue is a lot of people think that by exercising they can eat what they want, but sadly, exercise simply doesn't burn that many calories - it is mostly about the calories you consume - exercise is just what we do to get and stay fit, not thin. I'm so proud of you Helen, this video is mature, heartening, and most of all, spot on. Love it x
you are amazing and i can see how hard you have worked to get there, i have gone sugar free and that has made huge difference to my life with sleeping better and energy levels.
You genuinely influenced me to seek out a more active lifestyle. I do aerial silks (circus skills) and kickboxing classes and I'm loving it! I was so inspired by how you found activities that you genuinely loved and now I've found mine! I've never been a person that enjoys exercise (PE was my worst nightmare) but I really do believe there's an activity out there for everyone! :D
Well done, you look great esp those arm gains! Been on a similar 'plan' this year and losing weight in a sustainable and long term way which has been dare I say it a bit fun! Used to be a yo yo dieter myself, all or nothing kinda eating and never keeping it off. But through calorie counting, meal prepping, simple and satisfying meals, an occasional 'treat' or fitting them into the daily calorie allowance have been the key for me. Keep going girl, love your lifestyle of having fun and a laugh but with a priority on health and moderation xx
Great video! Your shoulders and arms look 👌 How good does it feel to feel strong? I love it when I can go up in a weight or get to 10 reps when I couldn’t before, it feels just as good as a slice of cake to me! Here’s to you continuing to make healthy choices for yourself and reaching your own goals ☕️
Helen, I never comment but this is such a great video especially re kicking your own ass. I find myself consuming so much self care stuff that the voice in my head tells me to skip the gym or binge food that will make me feel crap later. There's a fine line between self care and self sabotage and you need to check in with yourself often to recognise it. You look unreal. ❤
Well done Helen. Ive been on a similar journey and have lost a similar amount of weight as you and completely echo everything you said. One thing that really helped me with tracking calories was to use a weekly deficit - it’s so flexible and I’d naturally end up eating less in the week and saving more for the weekend. It really helped with maintaining the lifestyle!
Thank you Melon, this was genuinely so well explained. It really inspired me, and was super useful. Also, well done to you and all that hard work. Beautiful then, and beautiful now, but your confidence is 10/10 ❤
Bloody hell I'm ten minutes in and I'm back in the zone already. Lost a just over a stone recently but the past few weeks I've found myself getting a bit lax and lost sight of my actual goals. Watching this has helped me remember all my reasons I started this journey for, weightloss was a secondary factor, it was more for a better lifestyle and for mental and physical health. Can see me rewatching this anytime I sort of slip off track a little, great video, thankyou very much😁❤️
I’m in a similar process at the moment. Trying to find an exercise I love (apart from walking). I’ve lost 18lbs since January so slow and steady but not necessarily doing it to ‘lose weight’ but just feel happier about my body. The change in mindset truly does help. Thanks for the video 😊
Glad you did this video! I know you’ve went back and forth over the years of wanting to look and feel better without the haters coming and commenting. I personally struggle with the not being hard enough on yourself. Or that devil on your shoulder talking your out of working out.
Thank you for sharing. This was really inspiring about having a mindset reset and framing things differently 👏 this has helped motivate me and think about how I accomplish my goals ❤
I'm also on a weight loss/wellness journey, and the biggest thing for me has been the mindness shift of exercise and what it means. Exercise doesn't equal weight loss aka you're not good enough as you are. Exercise is taking care of your body and mental health. I've started doing pilates every morning and the goal of that is simply to get in my daily exercise and start of my day well 😊 If I do loose weight or tone up that's a bonus, but not the goal
I would like to weigh in on the ADHD meds factor a little. Personally I am on lisdex en dexamphetamine, which also suppress appetite. I did notice that for me the appetite aspect stays suppressed but what has made the biggest difference is that my dopamine supply of choice was food. So I used it to selfregulate and selfsoothe. Some people with or without adhd have similar behaviour, for example with smoking or whatever it is. For me yes it suppressed my appetite which undoubtedly helped but the biggest difference was that it did not feel like i was dying when i didnt get my food fix. My relation with food had become very obsessive because my adhd was untreated. Not saying that that is the case with everyone or with you because everyone is very different but in treating my adhd I was able to more succesfully lose weight. It was easier because it wasnt as all consuming. I had lost weight before unmedicated but it i needed to be constantly be on top of it, whilst now it is easier and more manageable but so are many other aspects of my life. It is not a wonderfix and just because it suppresses appetire does not mean you do not need to make any other lifestyle changes because when it wears off u will be very very hungry. Plus i sometimes struggled with energy because i was not feeding myself properly. Meds come with perks but also definite downsides, because i have passed out or acted out because i was hangry and i needed to make a schedule to eat because i did not have hunger cues. Just my personal experience but i felt like it may be beneficial to share.
For real 100% with you regarding mindset. I've taken adderall and lost weight rapidly from not being hungry at all only to start getting hungrier and hungrier while still taking it and gaining all the weight back and more. Changing my mindset from food scarity to abundance, eating slower and being more mindful of portion sizes has literally changed my life.
I went to Canada and America last year for my birthday.. I ate everything and had a huge stomach flair up and I’ve not been the same since, so I’ve been eating clean and not been eating in restaurants as much as I used to. I can really see a difference. I’ve also found joy in knowing what I cook won’t bloat me whereas restaurants feel like playing Russian roulette with my digestive system. I also walk absolutely everywhere.
I needed to hear this today. I made every excuse not to move. Went on a walk and had a word with myself and said “let’s face it you’re not gonna train legs on Sunday but you’re pretty tired after your 50 hour work pattern back to back so at least arms are easier.” Steps done and just about to leave for the gym. Listened to this as my phone was charging. Was too soft on myself and ended up gaining 10kg! Thank you Helen ❤😂
You look amazing and can tell you feel great. I used to use food to get a high when I wanted to not be here.. now I agree, treating yourself is eating right. I’ve lost nearly 3 stone, last year I wouldn’t have been able to do what I did on holiday this year. I’d have said no, too many steps, too many hills, too hot.. I’d have made any excuse to not join in. This year I explored the white cliffs of Dover, did the castles, the cathedral.. it felt great to want to do it. The weight I’ve lost has had a massive impact on my feet.. all shoes hurt before. My hip still hurts but I’ve had radiotherapy and medication so I just get the deep heat and pain killers ready, that won’t stop no matter how much weight I lose. I love moving, I look forward to good meals.. I can see my own kitty again.. ain’t seen that girl in years.. I was so excited I text my best friends and my mum that I could see ‘Linda’ again 😂😂 that’s a weight loss effect I didn’t even think of 😅
It would be lovely to see some going-out food vlogs where you sort of say heres what i would have ordered, versus here's what i will now order. Thats where i struggle, im like what would a healthy person order, and how much, lol!
This was a good and informative way of explaining weight loss. Or rather just being healthier too. I’m planning to make changes once I’ve stopped breast feeding my son, I’m being kind to myself and allowing a bit of leeway while I’m breastfeeding. But I really want to get to a healthier place
ive switched my diet to include more fruit and veg and more healthy fats which ive kept up for just over a month so far! this video couldnt have come at a better time for me - wonderful video! thankyou and well done on your weight loss💕
totally agree with the mindset of have a bit of a wobble day and getting back on it! its where my diet attempts have always failed in the past because id have a bingey celebration event and then fall off my diet, the switch of having a high calorie meal once in a while and then going straight back to my new eating habits have changed the game for me
Well done for keeping at it, did you ever get sick in the early days? I’ve had a really bad head cold 1 month in to “my journey” and still in a deficit but fell off the bandwagon exercise-wise, so the weight loss has stalled, how do you motivate yourself to get back on?
Hey Helen, appreciate your most recent youtube upload and your honesty. I've started a similar journey the past couple of months but finding I'm struggling with the DOMS?! Like I cant physically work out every other day because I'm so sore despite using a sports massage gun/ stretches. Did you experience anything like this and if so do you have any advice? Sending big love 🤘
"Sometimes we do need to kick our own asses" really hit me 😅as someone who is also neurodivergent, I oftentimes make up excuses and try to "be kind" to myself but I'm like...why am I "being kind" to myself with this box of cookies but then shitting on my self the second I finish the whole thing? Because that's not kindness. One of the biggest struggles I have with health and fitness is the double standard I hold myself to; I'm so gracious when other people do the same thing, why can't I do that for myself? (I'm ADHD+ASD if that helps anyone understand the contradictions haha)
as always thank you for being so real and upfront. I think its good to have perspective bc everyone's body is different and we are all trying to find out what works for our own bodies! ❤
I was recently told I am prediabetic. I already have a thyroid condition and so it was finally a wake up call. I’ve been really trying make changes and lost 10% of my body weight. I was losing my steam a little bit but this is a really good reminder that I am accountable good or bad
One thing that has been really helpful for me is finding exercise (especially strength-based ones) that I truly ENJOY and have FUN with because then it never feels like exercise. I tried so many different active hobbies and workouts and whatever felt like fun, I incorporated it more regularly. A second thing that has helped is wayyyyyy upping my protein because it helps me build muscle (which increases my confidence) and keeps me satiated more!
This is so me 😅 when I’ve made the decision to go, I basically run out the door so I can’t spend time convincing myself to change my own mind. Never get ready to go out so fast in my life than when I feel the inner me coming to talk myself out of going to the gym.
Honestly last year this is advice I wouldn’t want to hear.. because the answer is it’s all about mindset and I just wanted a quick fix. However my mindset just switched this year, I’m down two stone just by following a calorie deficit and exercising regularly👌🏻You HAVE to want to do it and it’s only you that can do it!
I did the same thing! Lost 32lbs in ~1.5 years. I started off by counting my calories but the thing that made the lasting change was becoming really mindful about when I was eating. It helped me realize that a lot of the time I was eating when I was really just looking for an ADHD stimulation. I also didn't know what being full (in a healthy way) felt like so I'd eat until I was in pain / physically uncomfortable.
I’m also on this lifestyle journey working out everyday weather big or small, very much an inspiration. I look at it differently in my 30s I don’t want to be thin like I used to think I’m more wanting to have energy, be healthy for my son ❤
It’s really wonderful to hear you’re being compassionate to yourself and doing what’s best for your body’s health. After finding compassion and wellness for yourself, a step to widen the circle of compassion could be to think about the bodies of the beings your consuming. The documentary Earthlings is great to learn about what chickens go through, and open your heart more.
So my thing is that I have long covid and fatigue is real bummer. Having ADHD (inattentive) also makes it hard because I tend to go through a "boom/bust" cycle, which is a thing of "I'm fed up and going crazy from being still all the time, so I'm gonna do a work out, then I knacker myself for the week". It's difficult to maintain consistency with that. But I'm getting married next May and my main goal is to not fall asleep in the daytime. I just want to have enough energy to enjoy the day and not be exhausted by 3pm. With exercise I know the energy will improve. Just trying to balance improving my movement, without sabotaging it with doing too much. Not in a position to sign up to a gym rn, so exploring home workouts.
You made THE BEST POINT - eating healthfully isn’t punishing yourself, it’s treating yourself!
Exactly, self love has become such a thing, but I think people forget love isn't give yourself everythinggggg sometimes it's self discipline x
Yesss!!!
I think we sometimes forget self love also means self discipline. If we had a child, for example, we probably wouldnt let them eat ridiculous amounts of dessert. Or when they ask for a cola we would occasionally give them some water. Or instead of a pizza tonight we're having 'chicken' & veg. Today we'll take a vitamin & nice walk, instead of watching tv. Y'know?.. Im not a parent but im starting to learn that i am, in a way, caring for someone child (myself). Its not always about indulgence, there is a balance. THAT is self love.
Great perspective
❤
This was so well explained, I have made similar dietary and lifestyle changes (although I've not dragged myself to the gym yet, I'm just focusing on moving my body and getting outside (I too bought a paddleboard this year))), and have lost 16lbs in 16 weeks, consistently. And at this point it doesn't feel like a diet, it's like I've just taught myself what my body actually needs. I didn't discuss it with anyone, I just woke up one day and started after putting it off for a long, long time. Never been prouder of myself.
That’s amazing! Well done you. Great to hear you’ve found something that’s working for you!
Helen I’ve watched you since I was a little lass learning about purple hair. You inspired me then, and you inspire me now. I’ve been on my own journey recently with health and wellness and it’s so epic to see you doing the same ❤
love this comment, I couldn't agree more! ❤
You speak about this topic with such nuance and sensitivity. Thanks for mentioning mobility and health issues, as a chronically ill girlie struggling with this very thing I appreciate it ❤️
This is the most sensible and productive conversation anyone has ever had with me 😅
I have the good old underactive thyroid and have found it very helpful to do it in stages, small calorie deficit for 6 months, lose 20lbs (or whatever), learn what that means for maintaining that, maintain for a year, then repeat the process however many times. 5 years on I've kept the weight off. I also very slowly realised cardio is just crap for weight loss, but exercise in general is great for brains and maintaining mobility while we age.
As someone else with ADHD, I am so happy to see that you managed this and it worked so well for you. The thing I struggle with is getting dopamine from snacks and foods. Even though my diet is very balanced, lots of healthy things, I overcompensate portion sizes and fix boredom and dopamine fixes with food! Time to change :)
this is something i struggle with as someone who is in autistic burnout.
read “highly processed people”
your adhd is probably worsened by the food
i really needed this... thank you helen. i am currently the heaviest i have ever been, and im struggling... i think this video is my sign to just start.💝
Hi Helen! Thanks for sharing your story with us! You are such an inspiration, you don't even know! I remember seeing you posting last year when you started this journey and I love that it's now apart of your everyday life and who you are.
I went through a break up at the beginning of this year and your videos from when you started have really been helping me stay positive and get through it. c: I'm still on my journey when it comes to weight loss and I don't talk to anyone about it. So it's lovely to hear how you've been getting along and progressing. ALSO YES THE MUSCLE GAINS ARE THE MOST EXCITING PART! Now that I've got the activity down, I'm going to try the TDEE calculator. I'm super nervous but think it would be worth trying! I have 3 stone (mostly my tummy and butt LOL) I want to loss and it's been a huge struggle. Stay strong, keep being you and thank you for all your advice!
If they dare accuse you of body shaming, they have no idea who "Melon Lady" was. Body positive sunshine
I needed this! You have honestly been such a huge inspiration for me in learning that this journey is meant for me not others and I will get to it in my way and it’s not a race! I’ve been going the gym consistently 6 days a week this last year and feel incredible and even now confident to get tattoos that I have wanted for a while on my arms now that I see them being toned. Thank you ❤
Your previous videos on this really inspired me. Your mindset shift and motivation just felt different from other weight loss/fitness videos and it clicked with me. I showed my partner your other videos last year when I said I wanted to really embed changes instead of flaking out all the time. I want to build trust with myself and feel stronger. Weirdly enough, my partner asked if you were still killing it while we were both climbing down a mountain in Scotland last week 😂. Neither of us would have been climbing the mountain if we hadn't started our "let's just do it" plan last year.
Thank you for speaking in a way that clicked with us. And your arms look fire 🔥😍
Helen, thank you for explaining the effect of your medication on your journey! I've been taking an adhd med for years and still struggled with my food intake. This spring, I began to actively work on my eating habits and fitness, and despite the work I've put in, some people close to me have mentioned that the medication must be a large factor on my weight loss. It feels demeaning to my process, but at this point I recognize it doesnt matter, as long as I stay the course!
i've watched you for so many years and i absolutely love that any time you talk about weight loss, exercise, life changes or anything its always a focal that its for your health and about doing what's right for you and especially with weight loss, it's about getting fit and being a healthier version of yourself and giving your body the right stuff not about fad diets! you've always been and continue to be such and inspiration for me and right now i'm on similar health journey and this just makes me more excited to continue it! SO much love for you Helen!!! ❤❤❤
I used the same tdeecalculator as you, i've lost 65lbs in a year! It's definitely taught me so much. Being able to enjoy the treats for birthdays etc and understanding there's no such thing as "bad" food is huge. Knowing that having a high cal day doesn't have to lead to giving up because you've "ruined" it and just getting back to it.
The bit where you say you talk as if you were a crew of people - I LOVE THAT 😂 do things for the morale of the crew aboard!
I find this video very inspiring, especially as someone with ADD myself. It’s the - sometimes we do need to do hard things and push through - that I have always struggled with, in every aspect of life actually. Thanks for your insights, you rock!
And also congraaaaats on your arms Helen!! Feeling strong and also seeing how strong you’ve become is such a rewarding feeling 🎉
I call it ‘only eating when I’m hungry and stopping when I’m full’ after so long of yoyo dieting I really needed to have a good talk with my self and get on a sustainable track. You look amazing and I’m glad you feel great too!
You just motivated me more to keep on going with my lifestyle change. I was getting off track but this helped me a lot! Love your accent i could listen to you all day! ❤
Really useful video! Perfectly put and exactly what i needed, 6 weeks into a lifestyle change and so easy to slip back into bad habits but it’s about reminding yourself why, and as you put it, being at peace with! ❤ thank you!
I’ve been watching you since 2012. You go up and down. That’s just life. I relate so much to the ups and downs. Thanks for being real ❤
Helen you are a rock star! I am endlessly impressed with everything you do. You have such a good mindset. Building muscle and feeling strong is just the best feeling. When I do deadlifts I think this will help me pull up my pants when I’m 90 years old. Working now for my future self
You look amazing. I saw how hard you worked in the gym without seeing much difference. It’s always diet that does it. Now you can see your gains. You’re so dedicated you’re a great role model!
I'm on my weight loss journey now and I also lost around 3 stone, but within 2 years. I'm still trying to lose like at least 20 more pounds hopefully by next year. This video is motivation to keep at it. I'm doing most of the things, but it's great to hear reminders and keep full steam ahead. Thank you for sharing!
i really enjoyed hearing your thoughts in this video. i’ll be honest i’ve been following you for years and at times the way you’ve talked about dieting and fitness in the past has really put me off. i can clearly see how you have reworked your mindset toward food and exercise to make positive change for yourself, it’s super inspiring! you succinctly explained things and weren’t making excuses or being defensive, it was all coming from a place of wellness.
your words resonated with me as i’m on my own health journey, i’ll be coming back to this video to help keep a healthy mindset. thanks for making this update ♥️💪✨
Brilliant video. Everything you are saying is spot on!
I started in a calorie deficit and joined the local Uni gym - 5 weeks in 19 pounds down. My MH is vastly improved! Win win win!
I felt this video so hard, I’m currently going through this journey with a thyroid condition called graves disease and it’s 100% mentality, and making those hard but good choices aligned with your journey. The message of eating healthy should be a treat! Thank you for this! 💪
Thank you for this! You worded this so well! I’m week 2 of a lifestyle change & this has resonated so much with me. Consistency & moderation are key. I always fell back into bad habits because I thought I was missing out by not having the cake, I love what you said about honouring the promise I made to myself💜
Helen, could you please also share your current chest & FBW routine? I’ve got inspired to test myself at the gym this week😂 Great vid as always❤
Thanks for this video hun, your mindset on it all has really helped me see things so differently - after a 2 month hiatus from my plan I was on after a holiday, I've been mentally feeling so guilty! But after watching you I feel good about where I can go with things x
You're so positive Helen. I love your current approach to achieving goals ❤
Watched this late last night and just popped back to say thanks. So helpful. I still remember watching your video before about how you manage a calorie deficit in the week and stuff and it was so helpful. I've been trying to lose weight for a while and have recently fallen off. Definitely need to re-set my mind set and this video was so helpful and relatable so thank you. Def keeping it to listen to when I need a chat w myself!
Thank you for sharing bits of your journey with us, Helen! You've inspired me to try new things and I even signed up for a spin class today. Absolutely loved it!
Hi Helen! Thank you for sharing with us this process. I always thought that you look beautiful, but now see you look good and hear that mentally you are feeling good, makes me so happy for you! I share with you some of the points you talk about moderation to eat and not feel guilty for that or feel bad because not wanting to eat something the family insists me (for example) and I think this is the key for keep eating only what you need. I hope you understand my little broken english haha, greetings from Mexico darling 💜✨
Thanks Helen! Love the frankness of this! 🧡
When I got put on my ADHD medication, I still gained weight. Yeah, it would suppress my appetite at the beginning of the day but then when it wore off in the evening, I would gorge. Now I am down to 222lbs and still on the medication but I lost 50lbs because I changed how I ate, started exercising and started drinking a lot more water. People just love to hate and not give people their flowers for all their hard work.
Like so many people in the comments, I have been following you since I was a teen. You have always been an inspiration to me and I have always thought you were beautiful. Super jealous of how killer your arms look!! I have always accepted my body for what it is, but my arms are definitely a point of contention for me. I know they will get smaller while I continue to lose weight but can't wait to get rid of the extra jiggle. Having tattoo sleeves makes me feel better about them though LOL!
3 stone = 19kg's = 42 lb's - you're welcome.
You said some really wise shit in this video Helen!!! Loved it really inspiring and completely made sense to me- just get on with it and don’t make it a thing! Loved it ❤
I have lost 1.5 stone so far this year. I have months where I yo-yo a lot due to stress, anxiety and just being too exhausted to look after myself (mum of 11 year old twins with additional needs here!) but your words and this video are so inspirational! I’ve set myself a September challenge to lose at least another 5lbs in the month (hopefully half a stone but let’s be realistic!) my starting weight was 14 stone which was the heaviest I’ve ever been at the start of January and I hope to get down to below 12 by November and then hopefully 11.5 by my birthday in mid January! Losing weight is so hard and you really do have to be in the right mindset. I love exercise but have to be careful with my back and knees now. I did two marathons in 2019 but had to stop running after that due to my knees… I say did and not run as I did a mixture of run/walking and I was very slow! But even with the 21lb weight loss this year I’m still a stone heavier now than I was five years ago.
Currently on the same journey. I’m there with the mindset 100 percent and actually calorie deficit has been so easy. I’m eating less calories but I’m eating more food because I’m eating better and making better choices.
Although your aren’t a nutritionist or professional you have put this across so well.
You look amazing. Thank you for sharing this
Helennnn I’ve been following you for awhile and this video couldn’t have come into my life at a better time. Thank you for your advice 💕
What a great vid to start my morning, you made so many valid points, it's hard to highlight just one, but I stayed to the end. You remind me a little of Adele in one of her chats, so down to earth and relatable. You look fab :)
This video is absolute perfection. I've been on a 'fitness journey' since 2022 and am the slimmest and most muscular I've ever been - this is me for life now and I got here doing everything you mentioned in this video. It really is about mindset more than anything - you've got to want to change more than stay the same and yeah, discipline is a massive part of it. I think the issue is a lot of people think that by exercising they can eat what they want, but sadly, exercise simply doesn't burn that many calories - it is mostly about the calories you consume - exercise is just what we do to get and stay fit, not thin. I'm so proud of you Helen, this video is mature, heartening, and most of all, spot on. Love it x
you are amazing and i can see how hard you have worked to get there, i have gone sugar free and that has made huge difference to my life with sleeping better and energy levels.
You genuinely influenced me to seek out a more active lifestyle. I do aerial silks (circus skills) and kickboxing classes and I'm loving it! I was so inspired by how you found activities that you genuinely loved and now I've found mine! I've never been a person that enjoys exercise (PE was my worst nightmare) but I really do believe there's an activity out there for everyone! :D
Well done, you look great esp those arm gains! Been on a similar 'plan' this year and losing weight in a sustainable and long term way which has been dare I say it a bit fun! Used to be a yo yo dieter myself, all or nothing kinda eating and never keeping it off. But through calorie counting, meal prepping, simple and satisfying meals, an occasional 'treat' or fitting them into the daily calorie allowance have been the key for me. Keep going girl, love your lifestyle of having fun and a laugh but with a priority on health and moderation xx
Totally a mind game - so impressed with what you’ve achieved! I’m still on my journey so this has been SO helpful xx
I so enjoyed your perspective on this journey. Ive recently made the decision to shift my lifestyle and I so needed to hear this today 🖤
Great video! Your shoulders and arms look 👌 How good does it feel to feel strong? I love it when I can go up in a weight or get to 10 reps when I couldn’t before, it feels just as good as a slice of cake to me! Here’s to you continuing to make healthy choices for yourself and reaching your own goals ☕️
Helen, I never comment but this is such a great video especially re kicking your own ass. I find myself consuming so much self care stuff that the voice in my head tells me to skip the gym or binge food that will make me feel crap later. There's a fine line between self care and self sabotage and you need to check in with yourself often to recognise it.
You look unreal. ❤
I so appreciate your input and perspective on this!!
Well done Helen. Ive been on a similar journey and have lost a similar amount of weight as you and completely echo everything you said. One thing that really helped me with tracking calories was to use a weekly deficit - it’s so flexible and I’d naturally end up eating less in the week and saving more for the weekend. It really helped with maintaining the lifestyle!
You are doing great. You have really come into your own and you look so much happier. Many congratulations and best of luck ❤
Thank you Melon, this was genuinely so well explained. It really inspired me, and was super useful. Also, well done to you and all that hard work. Beautiful then, and beautiful now, but your confidence is 10/10 ❤
Bloody hell I'm ten minutes in and I'm back in the zone already. Lost a just over a stone recently but the past few weeks I've found myself getting a bit lax and lost sight of my actual goals. Watching this has helped me remember all my reasons I started this journey for, weightloss was a secondary factor, it was more for a better lifestyle and for mental and physical health. Can see me rewatching this anytime I sort of slip off track a little, great video, thankyou very much😁❤️
I’m in a similar process at the moment. Trying to find an exercise I love (apart from walking). I’ve lost 18lbs since January so slow and steady but not necessarily doing it to ‘lose weight’ but just feel happier about my body. The change in mindset truly does help. Thanks for the video 😊
Glad you did this video! I know you’ve went back and forth over the years of wanting to look and feel better without the haters coming and commenting. I personally struggle with the not being hard enough on yourself. Or that devil on your shoulder talking your out of working out.
You’ve come a long way Qwueen!!!
So Proud of you! Stay F I E R C E ! 💪🏻💪🏻
Thank you for sharing. This was really inspiring about having a mindset reset and framing things differently 👏 this has helped motivate me and think about how I accomplish my goals ❤
Wow ❤ well done on your weight loss! You are a breath of fresh air 😊
I'm also on a weight loss/wellness journey, and the biggest thing for me has been the mindness shift of exercise and what it means. Exercise doesn't equal weight loss aka you're not good enough as you are. Exercise is taking care of your body and mental health. I've started doing pilates every morning and the goal of that is simply to get in my daily exercise and start of my day well 😊 If I do loose weight or tone up that's a bonus, but not the goal
Brilliant advice Helen..thank,s...xxx defo better not talking bout it too much.xxxx
I would like to weigh in on the ADHD meds factor a little. Personally I am on lisdex en dexamphetamine, which also suppress appetite. I did notice that for me the appetite aspect stays suppressed but what has made the biggest difference is that my dopamine supply of choice was food. So I used it to selfregulate and selfsoothe. Some people with or without adhd have similar behaviour, for example with smoking or whatever it is. For me yes it suppressed my appetite which undoubtedly helped but the biggest difference was that it did not feel like i was dying when i didnt get my food fix. My relation with food had become very obsessive because my adhd was untreated. Not saying that that is the case with everyone or with you because everyone is very different but in treating my adhd I was able to more succesfully lose weight. It was easier because it wasnt as all consuming. I had lost weight before unmedicated but it i needed to be constantly be on top of it, whilst now it is easier and more manageable but so are many other aspects of my life. It is not a wonderfix and just because it suppresses appetire does not mean you do not need to make any other lifestyle changes because when it wears off u will be very very hungry. Plus i sometimes struggled with energy because i was not feeding myself properly. Meds come with perks but also definite downsides, because i have passed out or acted out because i was hangry and i needed to make a schedule to eat because i did not have hunger cues. Just my personal experience but i felt like it may be beneficial to share.
For real 100% with you regarding mindset. I've taken adderall and lost weight rapidly from not being hungry at all only to start getting hungrier and hungrier while still taking it and gaining all the weight back and more. Changing my mindset from food scarity to abundance, eating slower and being more mindful of portion sizes has literally changed my life.
I went to Canada and America last year for my birthday.. I ate everything and had a huge stomach flair up and I’ve not been the same since, so I’ve been eating clean and not been eating in restaurants as much as I used to. I can really see a difference. I’ve also found joy in knowing what I cook won’t bloat me whereas restaurants feel like playing Russian roulette with my digestive system. I also walk absolutely everywhere.
Nice to see you're putting on muscle!
I needed to hear this today. I made every excuse not to move. Went on a walk and had a word with myself and said “let’s face it you’re not gonna train legs on Sunday but you’re pretty tired after your 50 hour work pattern back to back so at least arms are easier.” Steps done and just about to leave for the gym. Listened to this as my phone was charging. Was too soft on myself and ended up gaining 10kg! Thank you Helen ❤😂
I mean, 50 hours sounds pretty hardcore mate so don’t be TOO hard on yourself. Just do what you can where you can ❤️
You look amazing and can tell you feel great. I used to use food to get a high when I wanted to not be here.. now I agree, treating yourself is eating right. I’ve lost nearly 3 stone, last year I wouldn’t have been able to do what I did on holiday this year. I’d have said no, too many steps, too many hills, too hot.. I’d have made any excuse to not join in. This year I explored the white cliffs of Dover, did the castles, the cathedral.. it felt great to want to do it. The weight I’ve lost has had a massive impact on my feet.. all shoes hurt before. My hip still hurts but I’ve had radiotherapy and medication so I just get the deep heat and pain killers ready, that won’t stop no matter how much weight I lose. I love moving, I look forward to good meals.. I can see my own kitty again.. ain’t seen that girl in years.. I was so excited I text my best friends and my mum that I could see ‘Linda’ again 😂😂 that’s a weight loss effect I didn’t even think of 😅
It would be lovely to see some going-out food vlogs where you sort of say heres what i would have ordered, versus here's what i will now order. Thats where i struggle, im like what would a healthy person order, and how much, lol!
This was a good and informative way of explaining weight loss. Or rather just being healthier too. I’m planning to make changes once I’ve stopped breast feeding my son, I’m being kind to myself and allowing a bit of leeway while I’m breastfeeding. But I really want to get to a healthier place
ive switched my diet to include more fruit and veg and more healthy fats which ive kept up for just over a month so far! this video couldnt have come at a better time for me - wonderful video! thankyou and well done on your weight loss💕
totally agree with the mindset of have a bit of a wobble day and getting back on it! its where my diet attempts have always failed in the past because id have a bingey celebration event and then fall off my diet, the switch of having a high calorie meal once in a while and then going straight back to my new eating habits have changed the game for me
Thanks for sharing I've just started my change as it's needed this has really helped me ❤
Helen I'd love you to do an updated gym wear / outfit styling for the gym
Well done for keeping at it, did you ever get sick in the early days? I’ve had a really bad head cold 1 month in to “my journey” and still in a deficit but fell off the bandwagon exercise-wise, so the weight loss has stalled, how do you motivate yourself to get back on?
Hey Helen, appreciate your most recent youtube upload and your honesty. I've started a similar journey the past couple of months but finding I'm struggling with the DOMS?! Like I cant physically work out every other day because I'm so sore despite using a sports massage gun/ stretches. Did you experience anything like this and if so do you have any advice? Sending big love 🤘
It’ll get easier! Maybe don’t go as hard?,
"Sometimes we do need to kick our own asses" really hit me 😅as someone who is also neurodivergent, I oftentimes make up excuses and try to "be kind" to myself but I'm like...why am I "being kind" to myself with this box of cookies but then shitting on my self the second I finish the whole thing? Because that's not kindness. One of the biggest struggles I have with health and fitness is the double standard I hold myself to; I'm so gracious when other people do the same thing, why can't I do that for myself?
(I'm ADHD+ASD if that helps anyone understand the contradictions haha)
You look incredible. I’ve been watching since the famous melon lady days and always looked up to you.
Love you Helen Melon ladyyyyyy.. Proud of you
You look absolutely fantastic, all your hard work and dedication!!! 💪🏻 💗
as always thank you for being so real and upfront. I think its good to have perspective bc everyone's body is different and we are all trying to find out what works for our own bodies! ❤
I was recently told I am prediabetic. I already have a thyroid condition and so it was finally a wake up call. I’ve been really trying make changes and lost 10% of my body weight. I was losing my steam a little bit but this is a really good reminder that I am accountable good or bad
Well done Helen.
One thing that has been really helpful for me is finding exercise (especially strength-based ones) that I truly ENJOY and have FUN with because then it never feels like exercise. I tried so many different active hobbies and workouts and whatever felt like fun, I incorporated it more regularly. A second thing that has helped is wayyyyyy upping my protein because it helps me build muscle (which increases my confidence) and keeps me satiated more!
Thanks for the pep talk 👍🏻
Laughing watching this at the gym because ten minutes ago I literally had to shout out loud “LETS GO TO THE GYM” to get off my arse
This is so me 😅 when I’ve made the decision to go, I basically run out the door so I can’t spend time convincing myself to change my own mind. Never get ready to go out so fast in my life than when I feel the inner me coming to talk myself out of going to the gym.
And you did it xxx
Honestly last year this is advice I wouldn’t want to hear.. because the answer is it’s all about mindset and I just wanted a quick fix. However my mindset just switched this year, I’m down two stone just by following a calorie deficit and exercising regularly👌🏻You HAVE to want to do it and it’s only you that can do it!
You look soo good Helen!! Do you ever miss anything from being a little heavier??
I did the same thing! Lost 32lbs in ~1.5 years. I started off by counting my calories but the thing that made the lasting change was becoming really mindful about when I was eating. It helped me realize that a lot of the time I was eating when I was really just looking for an ADHD stimulation. I also didn't know what being full (in a healthy way) felt like so I'd eat until I was in pain / physically uncomfortable.
ADHD and exercise is key for me also! really great video :)
Isn’t it!
I’m also on this lifestyle journey working out everyday weather big or small, very much an inspiration. I look at it differently in my 30s I don’t want to be thin like I used to think I’m more wanting to have energy, be healthy for my son ❤
You've made me want to start my own journey. ❤
It’s really wonderful to hear you’re being compassionate to yourself and doing what’s best for your body’s health. After finding compassion and wellness for yourself, a step to widen the circle of compassion could be to think about the bodies of the beings your consuming. The documentary Earthlings is great to learn about what chickens go through, and open your heart more.
If Helen wanted to become a veggie or vegan, that's her choice. Mind your own business.
You look amazing always Helen! 🎉
You are such a gorgeous soul. I love watching your videos 🤘🫶
I love your progress ❤ but I also cannot stop staring at the sacred heart pendant. Where is it from 😅
Whether or not the medication suppresses your appetite doesn’t matter that much. You still lost weight by being in a caloric deficit.
Food is the fuel for a healthy life, and the healthy life is the reward! ❤️
Love the video and you look incredible ❤
Very helpful thank you Helen!
So my thing is that I have long covid and fatigue is real bummer. Having ADHD (inattentive) also makes it hard because I tend to go through a "boom/bust" cycle, which is a thing of "I'm fed up and going crazy from being still all the time, so I'm gonna do a work out, then I knacker myself for the week". It's difficult to maintain consistency with that.
But I'm getting married next May and my main goal is to not fall asleep in the daytime. I just want to have enough energy to enjoy the day and not be exhausted by 3pm. With exercise I know the energy will improve. Just trying to balance improving my movement, without sabotaging it with doing too much. Not in a position to sign up to a gym rn, so exploring home workouts.