I really, really appreciate your honesty. I was one of those girls who had to unfollow you as I did find you triggering when I was very sick with anorexia. I came across your account again the other day and I could have cried, I’m so happy for you. You are just glowing and I’m so glad you began to treat your body properly. Thank you for putting this message out there, the online fitness community is incredibly toxic. Sending lots of love!! xx
I deeply appreciate this! Thankyou so much angel!! That is really sweet of you and I apologise for not being a role model with the influence that I had on people 🥰✨ have a lovely day x
When you said the girls with abs naturally are genetically 'gifted'...I'd revert to saying their genetics mean they have that, just because. Just like someone with brown hair is 'gifted' or someone with 5 fingers are 'gifted'. Everyone is gifted! Because we are alive!! Xxx
HEY EVERYONE ❤️✨ Really just wanted to let everyone know that I might not be able to reply to every single comment, but just know, I will read and LOVE every single one!!! All of your support is a blessing and it means the absolute world! THANKYOU!! Thankyou alll honestly If you messaged me previously concerning my weight or have given me some guidance/ direction/ advice / let me see, what I couldn’t see! It means the world! Sending you ALLLLL!! My love!! Have a lovely day and thankyou once againxx
Hi Leila, thank you so much for making this video! I think that that period between 2010-2015, where “thinspo” and “thigh gaps” were the goal everywhere, damaged us all.... I’m so glad to see the direction social media is taking now with body positivity. Just a side note (and I hope this isn’t triggering), it’s interesting to see how different perspectives can be - you said you don’t have “abs” now, but I see the definition you have as totally abs in my book! Especially for women, I think that abs don’t have to be like 6-pack carved out of marble to count as “abs.” Strong looks different on everybody! It’s just crazy how one person can see a body as completely different than another. Which is a good reminder not to take the inner critic voice seriously! Wishing you more health and happiness ❤️
I highly agree!!! I remember that voice in my head telling me I NEEEDED a thigh gap to fit in! I remember placing my feet together and bending down to stretch because I read on google that, that was a method to get a thigh gap! Looking back, it was a TOXIC TOXIC TOXIC environment!!! ✨
Wow, some of this is so relatable! The fact that you are changing your lifestyle not only for your own health but to educate your younger followers is amazing. Let's hope, for future generations, it no longer a trend to go through disordered habits xxxx
I've got to say, when I first watched one of your videos a while back I noticed your weight straight away and was really concerned. This video is so important for the message it gives off which is that no level of shredded will ever make you happy when you are inherently unhealthy both mentally and physically. The fitness industry is rife with eating disorders and substance abuse. Many of the fitness influencers you see on IG - the ones influencing young girls - have chronic self-esteem issues, feelings of inadequacy and unhealthy relationships with food. At the time many of these individuals deceive their audiences into thinking that they are happy when a year down the line they then confess that they gave off the image of living their 'best lives' when actually they were constantly fatigued, cold and hungry. Thank you for showing your audience that you are more than your weight, that abs are not an indication of your level of fitness, and that often genetic potential trumps working hard. We are so exposed to unrealistic body goals on social media that we forget you cannot window shop an ideal physique - you cannot be like 'that's the body I want - I'm going to train for that'. You will never look the same as a fitness model - not because you don't train hard for it, but because their body is ENTIRELY different to yours with a different genetic potential. Many of these women and men trained like athletes from a young age. You need to stop wanting to be someone else and aim for the best version of YOURSELF and YOUR BODY. This was a very brave conversation to have Leila and I wish you luck in the rest of your recovery, you've really earned my respect xxx
As part of my own experience, there was honestly nothing to lose while gaining weight. Rather I've gained so much more GOOD things in my life which I'm so appreciative of. Met new people, healed my mindset towards food, ate more than I can ever have, moving my body and being active, so much more happier and just good vibes really. This video definitely hit me hard because everything you said was relatable. You looked absolutely beautiful in both ways and THANK YOU SO MUCH for inspiring me❤️
Leila, can I just send you a big cyber hug. That was so brave of you to open up like that. I am slightly older than you and when I was your age the diet culture was fierce, and looking back, it was completely wrong. You can really see a shift in the last few years and your generation is the one that are speaking up and you should be so proud! I love your videos, keep doing what you are doing you are incredible, positive and beautiful and I wish you and your loved ones all the health and happiness in 2021. Danielle xxxxx
Heya Danielle 🥰✨ thankyou so much for watching!! I was definitely held in the rut of it all when the diet culture back then was at its worst! And I’m grateful we have all grown together and have shared that the perfect “ideals” do not exist! Have a lovely day girl!! Xxxx
Honestly NO. WORDS. You just help me so much in my life. I’m French and also had eating disorder. Today I think that I’m completely ok with that. But seeing your videos just help me more. You’re so inspiring and giving me happiness in my life. Just continue the same way. Don’t know how to thank you. Xxxx ❤️❤️❤️
when i was the most “fit” or “healthy” , i was at my lowest weight and i had list my periods. i’m 13 and i used to eat 300-700 cals a day...thankfully my parents are forcing me to recover and i hope i get my periods back asap!!
This morning I woke up immediately thinking that this video was going to come out!💕💕 as someone who is recoverying from an ed and gaining weight to get my period back this video is just perfect; knowing that someone went through the same things that I'm currently going through is so reassuring💕 I wish I had someone like Leila as a friend, telling me how there are things more valuable thank few kilos shown on a piece of plastic Eds are so isolating and the thing I learned over time is that sometimes it is better to put our "ego" away and start to question what we think is "right" or "healthy" You are so so amazing Leila, the content you bring here on yt is all we need, thank you💕🌸 Btw sorry If I made any mistakes, english isn't my first language🙈
Loved it, this was a beautiful video Leila. I've followed you since the beginning of 2020 when I was suffering badly with my ed. At first I loved your channel but I soon started to become triggered from some things so had to take a break from watching you but I've been following you again for quite a few months now and the mental shift in you is amazing just from an outsiders perspective. It's so obvious how much happier you are and how much more energy you have. You can really see how far you've come in such a short amount of time. You truely are so inspiring. Also that being afraid to eat more than 2000 calories thing really resonated with me so thank you for discussing it. It was a great reminder to me to be kinder to myself and to eat to fuel my body always. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for all the work you do and the positivity you spread. I appreciate all of your videos and posts, the time you put into them and how hard you work. I'm only 16 but you are like big sister to me in a way and have helped me so much. Thank you again for sharing this. I can't wait to follow your journey and see where it takes you. Sending love from Australia
Jacyln ❤️❤️ thankyou for watching!! I also want to appologise that I triggered you in that way! In the mist of it all I was blind sited, stubborn and in denial!! But I’m sooo happy I was able to shift mindset! And influence young girls like yourself, in a way, at that age I would of liked to be influenced ❤️❤️❤️ sending you my love xxx
This video is perfect. It’s so refreshing seeing females in the fitness industry being completely honest and open about their journey. It makes me happy that more and more women are speaking on this subject. Everything you said was explained perfectly, you should be proud of opening up💘
The downfall of wanting abs, relatable. When our bodies change day to day, especially in the stomach region, sole aesthetic goals takes the joy out of fitness. I know your journey isn’t over, neither is mine. And it’s never a linear process but I am so unbelievably proud of how far you have come and to not only acknowledge it but also share it. As for amenorrhea, my process to get it back was the exact same. Although very active, I ate and gained the weight I needed over the months. The day I got it back (for the second time) was full of the happiest tears and I quite literally said it was the best day of my life haha, it’s a large accomplishment and I want to say congratulations to taking your life back Leila:) Heath is beyond just functioning as well, and goes into our minds which ultimately determines how our lives are. Health is life itself, not fitness, not being liked. Health is so individual, some people’s true health are even above the average BMI, and that is THEIR true health:) Thank you for sharing Leila, our society needs more thoughts and messages like this
I went through a very similar journey and finally decided to get serious about recovery last summer. Although I enjoyed your content, honestly I had to unfollow you on Instagram and stopped watching you for a while despite you helping me in celebrating food and eating more. However now watching this video, I am SO happy for you that you’re getting serious about your health in an all-encompassing way. I hope you continue to grow on this journey. For anyone else on this journey, speaking with a dietician, going to therapy, and stopping calorie counting is life changing for the better💛
Not everyone can have "abs" cause some of us myself included just dont have that type pf body and require a lot more body fat% to be healthy and i cant lose any. It sucks for me soo much cause i dont have "thin privilege" like u and u shld be grateful for u body and know that u r beautiful and shldnt have u change urself cause many ppl wld kill to look like u leila myself included MY own moto is: "Aesthetics are a bonus but not a focus & Strength is the key and dont let it flee" Pretty catchy right hahaha
I lost 40kg since August 2019 and have been focusing on strength and building muscle over the last 6 months, which means trying to find my maintenance. Until last month I couldn't stop losing weight, and a lot of what you said really resonated with me - especially about eating over 2000 calories! This month I gained 2kg and kind of panicked that I was going right back to my old ways of overeating, but realised I just need to reassess my diet and make small changes. I've dropped my calories by 100 a day (still eating well over 2000 a day!) and I'm going to be gentle with myself if my weight fluctuates. I want to build muscle and get stronger, so I'm expecting to see the scale go up, but sometimes it's scary as a woman to have the conflicting views of skinny vs healthy. Thank you for talking about this so candidly.
This really resonates with me. I had such a similar experience: got addicted to Myfitnesspal and became obsessed with maintaining a six pack. I lost my period and tried to convince myself that the two weren’t related. So thankful to the people in my life who helped me out of that. Thank you for sharing this message. It’s so important. Keep on loving your body and stay strong!💕
Leila I am so so sooo happy and thankful for posting that video and being honest❤️ My fitness journey actually looked a lot like yours, however I started it 2-3 years ago. 2020 was an incredible year for my mental and physical health. I gained weight, got my period back, became HEALTHIER and I feel so much better around food! I am extremely happy that so many people are starting to be honest on social media and show not only the glamorous parts of their life, I love when people talk about their mistakes and insecurities openly. This is a movement that we all have to support! The movement of being honest, being yourselves without filters, showing that life has ups and downs and its okay not be okay. The person that made me change my mind about food and calorie intake was Stephanie Buttermore, and still hers and yours are the RUclips channels I watch when I am insecure about myself. Massive Thank you ❤️
I’ve just started watching but it’s already making me feel soooo much better, I dont even know why but it makes me appreciate everything and accept myself as I am 🥺😍
dear leila, thanks for your honesty and telling us your touching story. i am an aspiring psychologist (1 year to my master's degree yay!) and can approve everything you said concerning EDs... i am super proud of you and of following you along your journey since 2019! it has helped me a lot, too. stay awesome! lots of love, a xx
When I started my journey my body was similar to yours when you started and I really just wanted abs abs abs. But you made me realize that I should prioritize my health, strength and muscle growing!! Thank you for being an inspiration
I will say I lifted weights and my body is shaping well but I’ve been hyper focusing on my abs making sure I get enough cardio/ abs in a week to help it appear better. It’s just hard sometimes with social media and also food relationships not being the best. Like I feel like I eat based upon my workouts I can’t even remember the last time I had a cheat meal. It’s just very complex and confusing for me.
Watched this yesterday, but I didn’t know how to express myself so I’m back today. I started following you back in July when I was struggling too. However, I was on this ‘fine line’ between wanting to get better or not. At some point your videos started to trigger me, even tho you inspired me in so many ways. The whole calorie and step counting started to simply make my mind like a dizzy place - as stupid as it sounds + English’s not my first language. But recently, I started to see how you began to embrace this body positivity and the eating to feel good. I felt relieved and enjoyed your videos again mentality. You are strong, Leila! And about your lie about having your period, don’t worry! I understant this whole pressure of social media. Can’t wait to see your progress - and this time not of your phisique, but of your health and happiness journey! 🤗
That is so beautiful 😭😭 and I’m so sorry I made you feel that way!! During my whole journey, it was NEVER an intention of mine to belittle anyone or make them feel they’re not worth it!! I completely understand where your coming from and I’m grateful for your support!! Sending you all the strength and love girl ❤️❤️❤️
Leila, this was so so brave and just wonderful to watch! "I'm healthy, I'm happy" - smiled the whole way watching you speak about your journey and your self love. Proud of you ❤️xxx
Sending you a big hug! It takes a tremendous amount of courage to talk about this subject. You are beautiful inside and out! It is wonderful that you have discovered self acceptance at such a young age and because of that can thrive in your happiness ❤️
Leila this video is inspiring, you really helped me through my journey, I also had (and chose) to gain weight last year because I was severely underweight and all I wanted was to feel healthy but also like myself. I must say I’m still a work in progress but I gained my period back and I am healthier than before!!! Thank you Leila 🥰🥰
You should be so proud of yourself! The journey you’ve been on has been amazing! Keep going, don’t give up! Keep thriving, find your health and keep smashing your fitness goals💪🏼💕
17.00 about periods thank you so much for your honesty!! You see so many girls LIE on social media about this! Lie about having their period or PMSing when they are clearly mentally and physically ill. Thank you Leila! I encourage you to do a post on you IG letting your audience there know this too. Lots of love. You are v strong 😙
I cannot even imagine someone would have anything negative to say. screw them!!! You are incredible. I am the same, 26 now, and spent 10 years worried about my body and appearance. It took away so much social engagement and happiness, plus tasty food I always missed out on, I wish I could have been more lenient and accepting back then. Your story is one in the same with so many who will benefit from this vulnerability and truth. LOVE YOU LEILA!!!! you are such an inspiration, and never alone. xo love from usa.
This video is exactly for me. Since I'm struggling with eating disorder and had no period for the past three years. I've just started the treatment and recovering journey for it. So this is so much informative and i appreciate you.
Much needed advice! Totally inspired me to start my weight gain journey and LITERALLY juz enjoy everything, no control over food and have fun❤️💕 Thanks for all your videos, it helped me a lot in my journey ❤️
I started following you because I was relapsing and wanted to lose weight. Now that I'm fighting my way back to self-love I'm literally so happy for you and excited to keep watching your new videos!! You and Linda Sun have such amazing and healing vibes for me rn. Sending you love girlie!
I did not expect this to hit me the way it did. Thank you for the encouragement. I have been struggling with gaining weight in ED recovery, but this just inspired me to allow my body to be what it is. Thank you ❤
I started following you on Instagram in the beginning of 2020 and now looking back I can really see how much you and the content you post have progressed. You’ve really become an inspiration for me, someone who has struggled with their body image and food for a couple years now. Thank you so much 💕
You have no idea how much I needed this. Not long ago I was eating 1200 calories a day and got so upset if I went even a little bit over that. I was doing intense HIIT workouts several times a week and was just so scared of food. I, too, wanted ‘abs,’ and my period also become irregular (thank god it didn’t disappear.) Also, I just want to say that you look so beautiful today. Back when you were skinnier, you looked good too - but you looked a little too thin. Now you are so much more radiant and have an amazing womanly figure. It’s so true women need fat! Thank you for not making me scared of food, I really needed this. Screw what society says.
I’m only halfway through this video (trying to squeeze it in before work!) but oh my god this is exactly what I needed to hear at the moment ! I’m constantly trying to find quick fixes through different methods like intermittent fasting and kidding myself that it’s working for me! When in fact I just feel pants! You have inspired me to just take back my body confidence and fuel myself properly 💪🏼 I’m so excited to watch the other half! I feel a little emotional writing this! But thank you Lelia ! You are the role model that all girls need ☺️❤️❤️ I’m only a year younger than you but can relate so much ❤️❤️
So inspirational. I’ve been restricting for 15yrs (including 9yrs of Anorexia and 6yrs bulimia). Not had a natural period in that entire time but 2021 is gunna be the year I do and start to live my life. Properly! Abs mean Absolutely nothing if you don’t have your health. Don’t I know it. Time to be happy and healthy and NOT HUNGRY! Thank you for being so honest and inspiring Leila ❤️
Thank you so much for sharing your journey with us, you’re truly a breath of fresh air in the fitness industry! I have a very similar story and 2020 was the year I started to turn things around. Everyday is a battle, but it’s content like yours that keeps me on track!! ☺️☺️
Leila, I'm so so proud of you!! I've been following you since 2018 and I can relate to you in so many ways(ED background, fitness, also 5'0). This is my favorite video from you. Thank you for inspiring me on my own journey and giving me hope that I can get back my period after losing it for 7 years. Sending you lots of love!!
Thankyou sosososooo much girl! Really appreciate it! You’re more than capable!!! More than what you can put your mind to!! Sending all the love and strength your way xx
Thank you Leila. I can imagine its not an easy thing to kind of "summarize" this topic and not "offend" anyone. You did it so well and it was so informative! Also: YOU LOOK ABSOLUTELY STUNNING! - And the editing was on point. Must have taken a lot of time and effort to produce this video. Keep up the hard work
Hi! I just found your channel. I also struggle with an ED but I recently started my recovery. I've been recovered before but I relapsed 1.5 years ago. I don't want to live like this anymore. Weight gain and eating are scary but this is something someone with eating issues has to do to be able to get better. Thank you for being honest. You're an inspiration!
Thank you Leila I’m in tears because this video has truly changed my life. For so long the idea of needing to have abs has kept me in a super underweight malnourished body and terrible relationship with food and I no longer feel strong. You are helping me to see that it’s better to feel empowered and strong and enjoy life and food and for that I thank you from the bottom of my heart you are amazing 😍😍😍
Thank you so much for this❤️ Its important to talk about this because society *often* portrays being skinny as being healthy. Social media *glorifies* abs (“get abs in 2 weeks!”, “tiny waist workout “ etc...) I’ve came to understand myself that (specially as a woman) being that lean it just wont be healthy for me. When I started exercising I wasn’t even overweight, I just wasn’t happy about my body. Constantly comparing myself and wanting to look a certain way lead me to a very unhealthy state of mental and physical health (all while ‘looking healthy’). As you said, those who can have abs while being healthy physically and mentally, good for them! But we shouldn’t feel the need to look like them in order to be healthy or happy. I was hesitant to watch the video because of your disclaimer at the beginning but Im glad I did, because it had a positive impact on me. Our society needs to stop glorifying being skinny and understand that being underweight and overweight are *just as harmful* .
Hi sunshine, thank you so much for making this video. When I was 15, I lost my period and I wasn't healthy. My weight was really, really low...I was always cold, sad, tired and HUNGRY (ofc obsessed witch calories counting) In this period of time was really popular to have "thigh gaps", "sixpack",.... Well, in my journey I have many ups and downs. But I have also I've come a long way. I realised that I want to be a beautiful girl, woman. I want to be happy, enjoy food with my family, friends, boyfriend. Be confident about myself. I'm still working on it, but I'm much happier than I used to be. Most importantly, I am a healthy girl again and I owe the most to myself. The path is the goal. Love you, thank you
I am 45 years old and I struggle with food but i got adhd as well. I hate how i look now but for me i just want to eat The PERFECT food. I hate tracking foods but i realized i have to do it for a short time so i eat enough. If anybody has tips on how to start not to over think food and simple vegan dishes that are already calculated please let me know. Love that you shared this leila! 💗. You look sooo much happier and beautiful now! Your eyes glow!
Thank you for this video! It makes me feel much less alone in some of what I’ve gone through during my teen years. Also I think a lot of people don’t realize that it’s unrealistic to expect yourself to look super shredded when you’re not flexing them abs lol.
I’m so so so happy that you set your priorities right Leila 🧡 I trust you and you make me feel that a recovered and healthy body is really worth it Trying to shrink ourselves to get abs won’t lead to happiness You are giving me comfortable vibes 🧡 Those vibes that you just relax, enjoy life without so much worries That video literally made my day and I am now ready for my exams 🧡 See you in your next videos xx
Thank you so so so much for addressing this! I had anorexia at 14/15 due to feeling not good enough and it was a way of control for me! Looking at Instagram and social media now with people in amazing shape, really does trigger! But I just have to think of my journey and what works best for me and my body, because a diet is definitely NOT what it needs x
You are so inspiring leila. Thank you for sharing, I really needed to hear this. I think a lot of people still believe abs are attainable while keeping your period but actually it is very rare. It is so much better to be healthy and happy. We only have one life so we have to enjoy it to the fullest!!!!
I know how other people's opinion can affect your mental health and the way that you see your body. But i've learnt that nothing is more important than your happiness with yourself only.. thank you for making this video and sharing your story❤
Ugh I just love you. I think we both relate on SUCH a new level, and I am SO SO happy and proud of us to finally see what health and happiness looks like on our bodies. I even got the same messages about people unfollowing me! Now they’ve refollowed! Abs do NOT define our health, happiness or fitness levels. Love u Leila!❤️
I think we’ve really shared our journey together especially Amelia ❤️ I can’t lie, I was also sometimes affected by your photos but I continued to follow because I loved who you were! But this is amazing that we’re so happy and are living life girl!! ✨✨🥰 can’t wait to see you post covid 🥂❤️✨
@@Leilahannoun we really have and I’m so glad it’s been with you!🤍🥺 oh god that just breaks my heart! It’s crazy how caught up you can get in it all and become so blinded!! A meet up is absolutely necessary 🤍
Leila this has got to be my favourite video!! Your such an inspiration and the happiness I felt from watching this is unreal. I’m so proud of you and your journey and I’m so happy that your accepting yourself and loving yourself with all these vibes❤️ this video has been so helpful to me, I realise now that I shouldn’t be focusing my whole entire life on an aesthetic look! I’m sending the biggest squeeziest virtual hug through the phone. I have loved following you on your journey, and I love even more that you are happy♥️ thank you
This one is, by far, my favorite video of yours. It’s sad that society has normalized these things to the point that we all end up being victims of diet culture and adopting unhealthy lifestyles. It’s really frightening to see the amount of people that has, has had or even is getting into an eating disorder. As a recovered Ed fighter, I really appreciate your vulnerability and honesty. Thank you for sharing your story!
Thankyou so much Ana! This has come apparent to me more with just the comments of this video! Let alone the tonnes of DMs I have received! It doessss really sadden me, but I’m so glad we’re moving on from it x
It takes immense bravery to admit you lied. But, I completely understand why & totally relate ♥️ Thank you for sharing your story in such an honest & thoughtful way. X
This made me cry and I don't know whether it is because I found myself in what you were saying, or because it made me relize how society can affect us so much, to the point where we lose ourselves. But thank you for bringing this up, I know some parts were not easy to say and share. You're one strong human being and you inspire me a lot !🥺💗
I'm so proud of you for making this and being so raw and real with us all. I've followed your Instagram since the early days and I feel like we have both been on the same journey, and it's so reassuring to know that I've not been alone on my own journey. You say all the right things and I know how challenging this transition will have been, but you should know that you have become the ultimate role model now! Thank you for this, and I wish you success on your new journey.
You’re such an honest and strong person love, you have no idea how many lives you’re impacting (myself included). I’ve really been struggling with getting comfortable around gaining weight, and it’s been a great challenge these past 6 months after years of restrictions, serious orthorexic issues, losing my period and what not... Watching your video helped me tremendously as we do share a similar story and you get a feeling you’re not alone in your struggles. Thank you wholeheartedly so much for that 🥺❤️ You know I’ve been watching your vids religiously, commenting here and there, but I truly believe this one is a game changer! Thank you for being the special and beautiful soul you are, know that you’re helping people in their journeys, and sharing your life, thoughts, challenges with others is an extraordinarily meaningful pursuit ❤️Ly xx
Girl I am so happy for you!! Sending you LOADS of power and love ❤️❤️ I have never been to a gym but I started yoga and working out at home during quarantine and it’s literally changed my life. My physical and mental health has been so much better! I love watching your videos NEVER STOP! YOU ARE AMAZING ❤️
I needed this video, I’m in the mindset at the moment of trying to achieve visible abs and a low body fat % - in my head if I achieve this then I’ve won in life, it’ll make me happy.. I’m hoping I can follow your footsteps and realise fitness isn’t about how visible my abs are
Thank you so much Leila, you have no idea how motivated and excited you've gotten me about actually fuelling myself properly. It really helps to repeatedly say 'i was not healthy back then' if I ever think 'i looked good before'. You're proof that you can look just as amazing if not better (albeit in a different way) than before and be mentally happy and healthy too. Thank you ❤️❤️
THANK YOU for making this video. As someone who used to count every calorie and get so focused on the “goals,” I think it’s so important to share this information. If I had done more research with my fitness journey at the beginning and heard stories like this, I would’ve saved myself a lot of grief!
Leila, Leila! I relate to you more than anyone else I follow. Our journeys are so so similar, wanting abs, starting to want to change our bodies at such a young age. Literally your whole journey! I’ve been following you for years and can’t even tell you how proud I am to see you truly happy, flourishing, and G L O W I NG! I am proud of you for being so honest and letting yourself be in such a vulnerable position, this video and your whole journey will and already has inspired and helped so many people, I don’t even think you realise! You look incredible! Your shape! Your skin, hair, the list is endless. You are a beautiful beautiful human being. You have really just drilled into me why I am on this journey and why gaining weight IS COOL and shouldn’t be feared! Thankyou Leila, truly T H A N K Y O U😭❤️
Yes preach it Leila! I love that you are using your platform to express the concerns around the ideal body types that is circulating around social media, where girls are idolising a certain body type and to want to have abs and have an hour glass body because they believe that it determines their self-worth. Which is honestly not the case! They must realise that looking healthy doesn't mean to have a slim figure.. not at all! It varies from person to person, body type to body type! Thank you for addressing this! You are amazing 💛
This is one of the most inspiring videos I have watched. For someone that also has struggled with their relationship with food and exercise, you have definitely made a positive impact on me and I am sure many others. You are a role model to so many humans and you should be so proud of how far you've come
I have to say that I've watched all of your videos and I honestly didn't even notice your weight gain and truthfully I'm the kind of person that picks up on that. So why haven't I noticed? Because you look stunning either way and your personality is radiant. You are extremely inspirational and have inspired my own body positive journey. Thanks for another great video Leila!
I started following you a couple of months ago and honestly, I did not even know about your ED until recently. I just love your videos because you are such a happy person and that motivates me so much. I did not workout for a year because of the pandemic I really lost my motivation and I felt a bit depressed but honestly watching your videos every day really worked as an antidepressant for me ! I'm working out again and I'm spending more time in the kitchen. as a side note, you look great right now, no matter what. and yes I did notice that your hair looked unhealthy in old pictures and now it looks silky smooth! . ❤️❤️❤️
Thankyou so much Maria 🥰🥰🥰 and youre doing amazing! I can’t believe my videos have helped you! You honestly don’t know how much that makes me BEYOND happy xxx
Thank you for this video and your honesty. The quest for abs can be quite detrimental to our health. I had only discovered your channel in 2020 and it actually has gotten me to eat more and not fear certain foods like biscuits ice cream etc. Now I include it regularly. Less restrictive. ❤️👍😊
It's actually amazing how much you have transformed Leila. Your happiness is genuine and infectious! I also think RUclips may have really helped you -youve evolved so much (so well and it's SO positive and so good!) Over the last year! Xx
Leila, thank you for opening up and talking about this subject, I imagine how difficult it is, these topics always are, especially when you are an influencer and are on the internet in some way. Anyway, I just wanted to thank you for everything and congratulate you girl! I'm also so happy to have appeared at the end of your video with the message hahaha
Leilaa, I just got goosebumps.... Wow so inspiring, you really gave me hope and power to ditch diettalk, bad self talk and all that,... I also Don't have period for 2 years now... But I love working out and I'm still scared of eating more, gaining weight and when I do i feel so gross... Just thanks for being you and sharing your story. I love love love you. Stay safe and keep being this goofy kind person you are. Xx
thank you for this video and sharing your story, I just turned 15 years old but I'm struggling with anorexia recovery too and this is really inspiring and reassuring !
THIS video really is a big motivator to keep on my "all in" recovery journey. I can see myself in you in so many different stages of my life and these types of videos are really just a big eye-opener that I NEED to keep on doing this for the sake of my health. So thank you for sharing your health/ weight gain transformation with the world and being so reflective on this topic!
You looked shredded then but you still look shredded now but now you are absolutely glowing! You look happier, you look stronger and just amazing 💖💖 thank you for sharing this I can 100% relate ! I've been obsessed with abs since I was 14 but I literally can not get them because I'm not genetically gifted in that way ! The weight gain has been a difficult journey but I've never been as strong or as fast before 💪💪
this was such an emotional video, i can def relate with a lot of the stuff you said but i especiallyyyyy understand the lying to pretend you're healthy - it's such a twisted thing but we all do it when we're in that unhealthy mindset.... don't feel bad about it, i'm sure most of your audience understands exactly what your mindset was when you did it so don't beat yourself up about it! im so happy you're in such a good place now, it really shines through your videos! you're an inspiration xx much love
You look absolutely beautiful and most importantly you are an incredible and brave person on the inside. Thank you for spreading such amazing messages and advice, you are truly inspirational and just so kind. Big thank you❤️
Im soooo glad that you did this video and i trink you are such an inspiration especially for younger girls who struggel with their body image🤗😌and to add:you look so much healthier and happier🥰🤗
I used to eat like 1100kcal and training 4x week 2h per day. I can't even say I looked good because I can't remember that period of time 😅 I clearly remember just this one saturday night, I was on the couch with my husband and I started sweating even if I was cold, my skin hurt, like even the clothes bothered me. At a certain point I also struggled to breathe really bad. That particular night I understood that I needed to change something, I'm still struggling I'm not going to lie, but I'm trying my best and that's what I need right now. Leila I started following you on IG a few months back (since the pineapple pizza post, I clearly remember that for some reasons) and not long ago I also started watching you here on RUclips, and let me tell you, you completely changed my life. I used to be so scared of food and I always wanted the body you have, and seeing you eat all that delicious food shocked me, I'm not joking, at first I thought you were crazy. How could you be so beautiful and still eating all of that? What kind of sorcery was 🤣? But the more I follow you the more I completely understand your message and your vision of the world. I'm not the leanest girl on the planet but surely I'm healthy, I enjoy my food, I'm so much more happy with the way I look and Im starting to not be afraid of food anymore. So thank you Leila, from the bottom of my heart. Wow what a message I leave here 🤣
Reading this was amazing!!! I was smiling all the way through! I Thankyou for taking the time to share your experience and mostly thankyou for your support!!! ps. I can confirm Pinapple does belong on pizza 🤣🤣
I really, really appreciate your honesty. I was one of those girls who had to unfollow you as I did find you triggering when I was very sick with anorexia. I came across your account again the other day and I could have cried, I’m so happy for you. You are just glowing and I’m so glad you began to treat your body properly. Thank you for putting this message out there, the online fitness community is incredibly toxic. Sending lots of love!! xx
I deeply appreciate this! Thankyou so much angel!! That is really sweet of you and I apologise for not being a role model with the influence that I had on people 🥰✨ have a lovely day x
@@Leilahannoun no apology needed. None of us are perfect
When you said the girls with abs naturally are genetically 'gifted'...I'd revert to saying their genetics mean they have that, just because. Just like someone with brown hair is 'gifted' or someone with 5 fingers are 'gifted'. Everyone is gifted! Because we are alive!! Xxx
BEAUTIFUL COMMENT 🥰🥰🥰
HEY EVERYONE ❤️✨
Really just wanted to let everyone know that I might not be able to reply to every single comment, but just know, I will read and LOVE every single one!!! All of your support is a blessing and it means the absolute world! THANKYOU!! Thankyou alll honestly If you messaged me previously concerning my weight or have given me some guidance/ direction/ advice / let me see, what I couldn’t see! It means the world! Sending you ALLLLL!! My love!! Have a lovely day and thankyou once againxx
You are a blessing to this platform ❤️
@@yasminaelhoyek8024 Thankyou so much yasmina 🥰🥰 all the love girl xx
Hi Leila, thank you so much for making this video! I think that that period between 2010-2015, where “thinspo” and “thigh gaps” were the goal everywhere, damaged us all.... I’m so glad to see the direction social media is taking now with body positivity. Just a side note (and I hope this isn’t triggering), it’s interesting to see how different perspectives can be - you said you don’t have “abs” now, but I see the definition you have as totally abs in my book! Especially for women, I think that abs don’t have to be like 6-pack carved out of marble to count as “abs.” Strong looks different on everybody! It’s just crazy how one person can see a body as completely different than another. Which is a good reminder not to take the inner critic voice seriously! Wishing you more health and happiness ❤️
I highly agree!!! I remember that voice in my head telling me I NEEEDED a thigh gap to fit in! I remember placing my feet together and bending down to stretch because I read on google that, that was a method to get a thigh gap! Looking back, it was a TOXIC TOXIC TOXIC environment!!! ✨
so sweet xo
Yes !! That period of time was so difficult especially!!
I used to be in a calorie deficit and I lost some much weight. But now I am at my healthy weight. Thanks for making this video.
🥰🥰🥰
You have never looked so pretty! You are glowing and smiling all the time, full of good energy and positivity!
Thankyou angel xxxxx
I prefer the word "health journey" than "fitness journey". 😊
It’s a bit of both for me personally as my health and fitness are both important to me! I’ve just learnt that aesthetics are not the most important xx
Wow, some of this is so relatable! The fact that you are changing your lifestyle not only for your own health but to educate your younger followers is amazing. Let's hope, for future generations, it no longer a trend to go through disordered habits xxxx
Thankyou angel 🥰🥰🥰
big hoorayy for getting ur period back and fuelling ur body and being happy and living life Woooooo
WELL DONE
❤️
I've got to say, when I first watched one of your videos a while back I noticed your weight straight away and was really concerned. This video is so important for the message it gives off which is that no level of shredded will ever make you happy when you are inherently unhealthy both mentally and physically. The fitness industry is rife with eating disorders and substance abuse. Many of the fitness influencers you see on IG - the ones influencing young girls - have chronic self-esteem issues, feelings of inadequacy and unhealthy relationships with food. At the time many of these individuals deceive their audiences into thinking that they are happy when a year down the line they then confess that they gave off the image of living their 'best lives' when actually they were constantly fatigued, cold and hungry. Thank you for showing your audience that you are more than your weight, that abs are not an indication of your level of fitness, and that often genetic potential trumps working hard. We are so exposed to unrealistic body goals on social media that we forget you cannot window shop an ideal physique - you cannot be like 'that's the body I want - I'm going to train for that'. You will never look the same as a fitness model - not because you don't train hard for it, but because their body is ENTIRELY different to yours with a different genetic potential. Many of these women and men trained like athletes from a young age. You need to stop wanting to be someone else and aim for the best version of YOURSELF and YOUR BODY. This was a very brave conversation to have Leila and I wish you luck in the rest of your recovery, you've really earned my respect xxx
This really really really did touch me ❤️ thankyou xxx
As part of my own experience, there was honestly nothing to lose while gaining weight. Rather I've gained so much more GOOD things in my life which I'm so appreciative of. Met new people, healed my mindset towards food, ate more than I can ever have, moving my body and being active, so much more happier and just good vibes really. This video definitely hit me hard because everything you said was relatable. You looked absolutely beautiful in both ways and THANK YOU SO MUCH for inspiring me❤️
Thankyou so much angel 🥰🥰🥰
Leila, can I just send you a big cyber hug. That was so brave of you to open up like that. I am slightly older than you and when I was your age the diet culture was fierce, and looking back, it was completely wrong. You can really see a shift in the last few years and your generation is the one that are speaking up and you should be so proud! I love your videos, keep doing what you are doing you are incredible, positive and beautiful and I wish you and your loved ones all the health and happiness in 2021. Danielle xxxxx
Heya Danielle 🥰✨ thankyou so much for watching!! I was definitely held in the rut of it all when the diet culture back then was at its worst! And I’m grateful we have all grown together and have shared that the perfect “ideals” do not exist! Have a lovely day girl!! Xxxx
Honestly NO. WORDS. You just help me so much in my life. I’m French and also had eating disorder. Today I think that I’m completely ok with that. But seeing your videos just help me more. You’re so inspiring and giving me happiness in my life. Just continue the same way. Don’t know how to thank you. Xxxx ❤️❤️❤️
Thankyou so much Clara!! Makes me beyond happy!!! Forever grateful and super proud of you xx
when i was the most “fit” or “healthy” , i was at my lowest weight and i had list my periods. i’m 13 and i used to eat 300-700 cals a day...thankfully my parents are forcing me to recover and i hope i get my periods back asap!!
You can and will do this angel 🥰✨ sending my love and strength to you xxx
This morning I woke up immediately thinking that this video was going to come out!💕💕
as someone who is recoverying from an ed and gaining weight to get my period back this video is just perfect; knowing that someone went through the same things that I'm currently going through is so reassuring💕 I wish I had someone like Leila as a friend, telling me how there are things more valuable thank few kilos shown on a piece of plastic
Eds are so isolating and the thing I learned over time is that sometimes it is better to put our "ego" away and start to question what we think is "right" or "healthy"
You are so so amazing Leila, the content you bring here on yt is all we need, thank you💕🌸
Btw sorry If I made any mistakes, english isn't my first language🙈
Love this so much Irene!! Super proud of you!! Thankyou for your support 🥰🥰 I’m wishing us both strength and happiness cx
Loved it, this was a beautiful video Leila. I've followed you since the beginning of 2020 when I was suffering badly with my ed. At first I loved your channel but I soon started to become triggered from some things so had to take a break from watching you but I've been following you again for quite a few months now and the mental shift in you is amazing just from an outsiders perspective. It's so obvious how much happier you are and how much more energy you have. You can really see how far you've come in such a short amount of time. You truely are so inspiring. Also that being afraid to eat more than 2000 calories thing really resonated with me so thank you for discussing it. It was a great reminder to me to be kinder to myself and to eat to fuel my body always.
Thank you from the bottom of my heart for all the work you do and the positivity you spread. I appreciate all of your videos and posts, the time you put into them and how hard you work. I'm only 16 but you are like big sister to me in a way and have helped me so much.
Thank you again for sharing this. I can't wait to follow your journey and see where it takes you. Sending love from Australia
Jacyln ❤️❤️ thankyou for watching!! I also want to appologise that I triggered you in that way! In the mist of it all I was blind sited, stubborn and in denial!! But I’m sooo happy I was able to shift mindset! And influence young girls like yourself, in a way, at that age I would of liked to be influenced ❤️❤️❤️ sending you my love xxx
17:00 we appreciate your honestly Leila ❤️
Thankyou Claire! I wanted to be as real and raw as possible!! Xx
This video is perfect. It’s so refreshing seeing females in the fitness industry being completely honest and open about their journey. It makes me happy that more and more women are speaking on this subject. Everything you said was explained perfectly, you should be proud of opening up💘
The downfall of wanting abs, relatable. When our bodies change day to day, especially in the stomach region, sole aesthetic goals takes the joy out of fitness. I know your journey isn’t over, neither is mine. And it’s never a linear process but I am so unbelievably proud of how far you have come and to not only acknowledge it but also share it.
As for amenorrhea, my process to get it back was the exact same. Although very active, I ate and gained the weight I needed over the months. The day I got it back (for the second time) was full of the happiest tears and I quite literally said it was the best day of my life haha, it’s a large accomplishment and I want to say congratulations to taking your life back Leila:) Heath is beyond just functioning as well, and goes into our minds which ultimately determines how our lives are. Health is life itself, not fitness, not being liked. Health is so individual, some people’s true health are even above the average BMI, and that is THEIR true health:) Thank you for sharing Leila, our society needs more thoughts and messages like this
I went through a very similar journey and finally decided to get serious about recovery last summer. Although I enjoyed your content, honestly I had to unfollow you on Instagram and stopped watching you for a while despite you helping me in celebrating food and eating more. However now watching this video, I am SO happy for you that you’re getting serious about your health in an all-encompassing way. I hope you continue to grow on this journey. For anyone else on this journey, speaking with a dietician, going to therapy, and stopping calorie counting is life changing for the better💛
Thankyou angel 🥰🥰🥰
Not everyone can have "abs" cause some of us myself included just dont have that type pf body and require a lot more body fat% to be healthy and i cant lose any. It sucks for me soo much cause i dont have "thin privilege" like u and u shld be grateful for u body and know that u r beautiful and shldnt have u change urself cause many ppl wld kill to look like u leila myself included
MY own moto is: "Aesthetics are a bonus but not a focus & Strength is the key and dont let it flee"
Pretty catchy right hahaha
I lost 40kg since August 2019 and have been focusing on strength and building muscle over the last 6 months, which means trying to find my maintenance. Until last month I couldn't stop losing weight, and a lot of what you said really resonated with me - especially about eating over 2000 calories!
This month I gained 2kg and kind of panicked that I was going right back to my old ways of overeating, but realised I just need to reassess my diet and make small changes. I've dropped my calories by 100 a day (still eating well over 2000 a day!) and I'm going to be gentle with myself if my weight fluctuates.
I want to build muscle and get stronger, so I'm expecting to see the scale go up, but sometimes it's scary as a woman to have the conflicting views of skinny vs healthy. Thank you for talking about this so candidly.
This really resonates with me. I had such a similar experience: got addicted to Myfitnesspal and became obsessed with maintaining a six pack. I lost my period and tried to convince myself that the two weren’t related. So thankful to the people in my life who helped me out of that. Thank you for sharing this message. It’s so important. Keep on loving your body and stay strong!💕
Leila I am so so sooo happy and thankful for posting that video and being honest❤️ My fitness journey actually looked a lot like yours, however I started it 2-3 years ago. 2020 was an incredible year for my mental and physical health. I gained weight, got my period back, became HEALTHIER and I feel so much better around food!
I am extremely happy that so many people are starting to be honest on social media and show not only the glamorous parts of their life, I love when people talk about their mistakes and insecurities openly. This is a movement that we all have to support! The movement of being honest, being yourselves without filters, showing that life has ups and downs and its okay not be okay.
The person that made me change my mind about food and calorie intake was Stephanie Buttermore, and still hers and yours are the RUclips channels I watch when I am insecure about myself. Massive Thank you ❤️
Thankyou angel 🥰🥰 sending you my lvoe xx
I’ve just started watching but it’s already making me feel soooo much better, I dont even know why but it makes me appreciate everything and accept myself as I am 🥺😍
You’re beautiful 🥰🥰🥰
You still look amazing and are such a lovely person! 💖
Thankyou girl xx
I’m 2.5 mins in and I’m already crying. Well done 👏🏼
Aww that’s beautiful hehe thankyou girl xxx
dear leila, thanks for your honesty and telling us your touching story. i am an aspiring psychologist (1 year to my master's degree yay!) and can approve everything you said concerning EDs... i am super proud of you and of following you along your journey since 2019! it has helped me a lot, too. stay awesome! lots of love, a xx
That’s amazing Antonia! Wishing you all the success and happiness 🥰🥰 Thankyou for your support!
When I started my journey my body was similar to yours when you started and I really just wanted abs abs abs. But you made me realize that I should prioritize my health, strength and muscle growing!! Thank you for being an inspiration
For sure girl 🥰🥰keep at it xx
I will say I lifted weights and my body is shaping well but I’ve been hyper focusing on my abs making sure I get enough cardio/ abs in a week to help it appear better. It’s just hard sometimes with social media and also food relationships not being the best. Like I feel like I eat based upon my workouts I can’t even remember the last time I had a cheat meal. It’s just very complex and confusing for me.
Watched this yesterday, but I didn’t know how to express myself so I’m back today. I started following you back in July when I was struggling too. However, I was on this ‘fine line’ between wanting to get better or not. At some point your videos started to trigger me, even tho you inspired me in so many ways. The whole calorie and step counting started to simply make my mind like a dizzy place - as stupid as it sounds + English’s not my first language. But recently, I started to see how you began to embrace this body positivity and the eating to feel good. I felt relieved and enjoyed your videos again mentality. You are strong, Leila! And about your lie about having your period, don’t worry! I understant this whole pressure of social media. Can’t wait to see your progress - and this time not of your phisique, but of your health and happiness journey! 🤗
That is so beautiful 😭😭 and I’m so sorry I made you feel that way!! During my whole journey, it was NEVER an intention of mine to belittle anyone or make them feel they’re not worth it!! I completely understand where your coming from and I’m grateful for your support!! Sending you all the strength and love girl ❤️❤️❤️
Leila, this was so so brave and just wonderful to watch! "I'm healthy, I'm happy" - smiled the whole way watching you speak about your journey and your self love. Proud of you ❤️xxx
Thankyou so much guys 🥰🥰✨ your channel is soo amazing and is helping soo many see how fun food can be! Xx
Sending you a big hug! It takes a tremendous amount of courage to talk about this subject. You are beautiful inside and out! It is wonderful that you have discovered self acceptance at such a young age and because of that can thrive in your happiness ❤️
Thankyou angel!!!! It was really hard for me but I just took a deep breath in and said everything I needed to get off my chest!! Xx
@@Leilahannoun you did great!
Most genuine and strong woman. Only RUclipsr I go out of my way to still watch. This content I trust. Thank you Leila ♥️ You are an inspiration.
Aww thankyou so much Jessie 🥰🥰
Leila this video is inspiring, you really helped me through my journey, I also had (and chose) to gain weight last year because I was severely underweight and all I wanted was to feel healthy but also like myself. I must say I’m still a work in progress but I gained my period back and I am healthier than before!!! Thank you Leila 🥰🥰
I’m sosososo happy for you girl 🥰 wishing you all the success and happiness xx
You should be so proud of yourself! The journey you’ve been on has been amazing! Keep going, don’t give up! Keep thriving, find your health and keep smashing your fitness goals💪🏼💕
Thankyou Katie xx
17.00 about periods thank you so much for your honesty!! You see so many girls LIE on social media about this! Lie about having their period or PMSing when they are clearly mentally and physically ill. Thank you Leila! I encourage you to do a post on you IG letting your audience there know this too. Lots of love. You are v strong 😙
100000%!!! And I know some girls who do!! Thankyou soo much Elle xx
Love this!! Got to remember that bodily trends (abs, thigh gaps, slim thick etc) come and go - prioritise your health and happiness x
Definitely Hannah! Soo important to note this 🥰🥰
I cannot even imagine someone would have anything negative to say. screw them!!! You are incredible.
I am the same, 26 now, and spent 10 years worried about my body and appearance. It took away so much social engagement and happiness, plus tasty food I always missed out on, I wish I could have been more lenient and accepting back then. Your story is one in the same with so many who will benefit from this vulnerability and truth. LOVE YOU LEILA!!!! you are such an inspiration, and never alone. xo love from usa.
All the love girl xoxox
This video is exactly for me. Since I'm struggling with eating disorder and had no period for the past three years. I've just started the treatment and recovering journey for it. So this is so much informative and i appreciate you.
🥰 sending all my love xx
Much needed advice! Totally inspired me to start my weight gain journey and LITERALLY juz enjoy everything, no control over food and have fun❤️💕 Thanks for all your videos, it helped me a lot in my journey ❤️
Thankyou angel 🥰🥰
I started following you because I was relapsing and wanted to lose weight. Now that I'm fighting my way back to self-love I'm literally so happy for you and excited to keep watching your new videos!! You and Linda Sun have such amazing and healing vibes for me rn. Sending you love girlie!
Aww thankyou so much Maggie and you’re amazing 🥰🥰 sending my love girl xx
I did not expect this to hit me the way it did. Thank you for the encouragement. I have been struggling with gaining weight in ED recovery, but this just inspired me to allow my body to be what it is. Thank you ❤
I started following you on Instagram in the beginning of 2020 and now looking back I can really see how much you and the content you post have progressed. You’ve really become an inspiration for me, someone who has struggled with their body image and food for a couple years now. Thank you so much 💕
Thankyou so much emelie 🥰🥰🥰 have a lovely day xx
You have no idea how much I needed this. Not long ago I was eating 1200 calories a day and got so upset if I went even a little bit over that. I was doing intense HIIT workouts several times a week and was just so scared of food. I, too, wanted ‘abs,’ and my period also become irregular (thank god it didn’t disappear.)
Also, I just want to say that you look so beautiful today. Back when you were skinnier, you looked good too - but you looked a little too thin. Now you are so much more radiant and have an amazing womanly figure. It’s so true women need fat! Thank you for not making me scared of food, I really needed this. Screw what society says.
I’m only halfway through this video (trying to squeeze it in before work!) but oh my god this is exactly what I needed to hear at the moment !
I’m constantly trying to find quick fixes through different methods like intermittent fasting and kidding myself that it’s working for me! When in fact I just feel pants!
You have inspired me to just take back my body confidence and fuel myself properly 💪🏼 I’m so excited to watch the other half!
I feel a little emotional writing this! But thank you Lelia ! You are the role model that all girls need ☺️❤️❤️
I’m only a year younger than you but can relate so much ❤️❤️
Thankyou so much girl xx
So inspirational. I’ve been restricting for 15yrs (including 9yrs of Anorexia and 6yrs bulimia). Not had a natural period in that entire time but 2021 is gunna be the year I do and start to live my life. Properly! Abs mean Absolutely nothing if you don’t have your health. Don’t I know it. Time to be happy and healthy and NOT HUNGRY! Thank you for being so honest and inspiring Leila ❤️
That’s beautiful vicki 🥰🥰 thankyou ✨
Thank you so much for sharing your journey with us, you’re truly a breath of fresh air in the fitness industry! I have a very similar story and 2020 was the year I started to turn things around. Everyday is a battle, but it’s content like yours that keeps me on track!! ☺️☺️
Thankyou so much Amanda!! I’m so happy for you! You’ve got this girl ❤️✨
Leila, I'm so so proud of you!! I've been following you since 2018 and I can relate to you in so many ways(ED background, fitness, also 5'0). This is my favorite video from you. Thank you for inspiring me on my own journey and giving me hope that I can get back my period after losing it for 7 years. Sending you lots of love!!
Thankyou sosososooo much girl! Really appreciate it! You’re more than capable!!! More than what you can put your mind to!! Sending all the love and strength your way xx
@@Leilahannoun 💕💕💕
I've got sooo strong motivation to move on and gain weight(recovery). I love your saying: "your body is your". Thank you for your honesty.♥️
That’s beautiful girl 🥰🥰🥰
Thank you Leila. I can imagine its not an easy thing to kind of "summarize" this topic and not "offend" anyone. You did it so well and it was so informative! Also: YOU LOOK ABSOLUTELY STUNNING! - And the editing was on point. Must have taken a lot of time and effort to produce this video. Keep up the hard work
Thankyou so much angel xxxxx
Hi! I just found your channel. I also struggle with an ED but I recently started my recovery. I've been recovered before but I relapsed 1.5 years ago. I don't want to live like this anymore. Weight gain and eating are scary but this is something someone with eating issues has to do to be able to get better. Thank you for being honest. You're an inspiration!
You’re doing the right think girl!! Speak to someone please and help will come your way xox
Thank you Leila I’m in tears because this video has truly changed my life. For so long the idea of needing to have abs has kept me in a super underweight malnourished body and terrible relationship with food and I no longer feel strong. You are helping me to see that it’s better to feel empowered and strong and enjoy life and food and for that I thank you from the bottom of my heart you are amazing 😍😍😍
Thankingggg you for all the love girl! And I’m sending you all the strength your way! You’re doing amazing 🥰✨❤️ it’s a process and you’ve got this xx
Thank you so much for this❤️
Its important to talk about this because society *often* portrays being skinny as being healthy. Social media *glorifies* abs (“get abs in 2 weeks!”, “tiny waist workout “ etc...) I’ve came to understand myself that (specially as a woman) being that lean it just wont be healthy for me. When I started exercising I wasn’t even overweight, I just wasn’t happy about my body. Constantly comparing myself and wanting to look a certain way lead me to a very unhealthy state of mental and physical health (all while ‘looking healthy’).
As you said, those who can have abs while being healthy physically and mentally, good for them! But we shouldn’t feel the need to look like them in order to be healthy or happy.
I was hesitant to watch the video because of your disclaimer at the beginning but Im glad I did, because it had a positive impact on me.
Our society needs to stop glorifying being skinny and understand that being underweight and overweight are *just as harmful* .
Beautifully said 🥰✨❤️
You are honestly sooo BEAUTIFUL inside and out 💚
Thankyou xxx
7:14 I used to do the exact same thing with the stones! Relate to so much of your journey and I’m so proud of you ❤️
🥰🥰 I’m sososo glad you related in some way!! Xx
Hi sunshine, thank you so much for making this video.
When I was 15, I lost my period and I wasn't healthy. My weight was really, really low...I was always cold, sad, tired and HUNGRY (ofc obsessed witch calories counting) In this period of time was really popular to have "thigh gaps", "sixpack",.... Well, in my journey I have many ups and downs. But I have also I've come a long way. I realised that I want to be a beautiful girl, woman. I want to be happy, enjoy food with my family, friends, boyfriend. Be confident about myself. I'm still working on it, but I'm much happier than I used to be. Most importantly, I am a healthy girl again and I owe the most to myself. The path is the goal. Love you, thank you
Thankyou girl 🥰🥰
I want everyone to see this! To subscribe! You deserve all the love and adoration the world and more! 🥺💓
Thankyou sooo much ffion 🥰🥰
Proud of you girl!!! Sending all my love ❤️❤️
Thankyou gorgeous 🥰✨
I am 45 years old and I struggle with food but i got adhd as well. I hate how i look now but for me i just want to eat The PERFECT food. I hate tracking foods but i realized i have to do it for a short time so i eat enough. If anybody has tips on how to start not to over think food and simple vegan dishes that are already calculated please let me know. Love that you shared this leila! 💗. You look sooo much happier and beautiful now! Your eyes glow!
Thank you for this video! It makes me feel much less alone in some of what I’ve gone through during my teen years. Also I think a lot of people don’t realize that it’s unrealistic to expect yourself to look super shredded when you’re not flexing them abs lol.
Wow! You are such a huge inspiration
You’re incredible 🥰✨ keep going xxx
I’m so so so happy that you set your priorities right Leila 🧡 I trust you and you make me feel that a recovered and healthy body is really worth it
Trying to shrink ourselves to get abs won’t lead to happiness
You are giving me comfortable vibes 🧡
Those vibes that you just relax, enjoy life without so much worries
That video literally made my day and I am now ready for my exams 🧡
See you in your next videos xx
All the vibes 🤣🥰🥰 thankyou sososooo much girl!! Have a lovely day xxx
Thank you so so so much for addressing this! I had anorexia at 14/15 due to feeling not good enough and it was a way of control for me! Looking at Instagram and social media now with people in amazing shape, really does trigger! But I just have to think of my journey and what works best for me and my body, because a diet is definitely NOT what it needs x
You are so inspiring leila. Thank you for sharing, I really needed to hear this. I think a lot of people still believe abs are attainable while keeping your period but actually it is very rare. It is so much better to be healthy and happy. We only have one life so we have to enjoy it to the fullest!!!!
Sooo rare!!! And I’m so GLADD I accepted that!! Because I was trying to up keep something that just wasn’t possible for me x
I know how other people's opinion can affect your mental health and the way that you see your body. But i've learnt that nothing is more important than your happiness with yourself only.. thank you for making this video and sharing your story❤
Ugh I just love you. I think we both relate on SUCH a new level, and I am SO SO happy and proud of us to finally see what health and happiness looks like on our bodies. I even got the same messages about people unfollowing me! Now they’ve refollowed! Abs do NOT define our health, happiness or fitness levels. Love u Leila!❤️
I think we’ve really shared our journey together especially Amelia ❤️ I can’t lie, I was also sometimes affected by your photos but I continued to follow because I loved who you were! But this is amazing that we’re so happy and are living life girl!! ✨✨🥰 can’t wait to see you post covid 🥂❤️✨
@@Leilahannoun we really have and I’m so glad it’s been with you!🤍🥺 oh god that just breaks my heart! It’s crazy how caught up you can get in it all and become so blinded!! A meet up is absolutely necessary 🤍
Leila this has got to be my favourite video!! Your such an inspiration and the happiness I felt from watching this is unreal. I’m so proud of you and your journey and I’m so happy that your accepting yourself and loving yourself with all these vibes❤️ this video has been so helpful to me, I realise now that I shouldn’t be focusing my whole entire life on an aesthetic look! I’m sending the biggest squeeziest virtual hug through the phone. I have loved following you on your journey, and I love even more that you are happy♥️ thank you
Oh wow!! Thankyou sososo much holly!!! Have a lovely day girl and thankyou for your support xxx
This one is, by far, my favorite video of yours. It’s sad that society has normalized these things to the point that we all end up being victims of diet culture and adopting unhealthy lifestyles. It’s really frightening to see the amount of people that has, has had or even is getting into an eating disorder. As a recovered Ed fighter, I really appreciate your vulnerability and honesty. Thank you for sharing your story!
Thankyou so much Ana! This has come apparent to me more with just the comments of this video! Let alone the tonnes of DMs I have received! It doessss really sadden me, but I’m so glad we’re moving on from it x
It takes immense bravery to admit you lied. But, I completely understand why & totally relate ♥️ Thank you for sharing your story in such an honest & thoughtful way. X
Thankyou so much angel xoxox
This made me cry and I don't know whether it is because I found myself in what you were saying, or because it made me relize how society can affect us so much, to the point where we lose ourselves. But thank you for bringing this up, I know some parts were not easy to say and share. You're one strong human being and you inspire me a lot !🥺💗
Thankyou so much Julie ✨✨🥰🥰
I'm so proud of you for making this and being so raw and real with us all. I've followed your Instagram since the early days and I feel like we have both been on the same journey, and it's so reassuring to know that I've not been alone on my own journey. You say all the right things and I know how challenging this transition will have been, but you should know that you have become the ultimate role model now! Thank you for this, and I wish you success on your new journey.
You’re such an honest and strong person love, you have no idea how many lives you’re impacting (myself included).
I’ve really been struggling with getting comfortable around gaining weight, and it’s been a great challenge these past 6 months after years of restrictions, serious orthorexic issues, losing my period and what not... Watching your video helped me tremendously as we do share a similar story and you get a feeling you’re not alone in your struggles. Thank you wholeheartedly so much for that 🥺❤️
You know I’ve been watching your vids religiously, commenting here and there, but I truly believe this one is a game changer! Thank you for being the special and beautiful soul you are, know that you’re helping people in their journeys, and sharing your life, thoughts, challenges with others is an extraordinarily meaningful pursuit ❤️Ly xx
Aww thankyou sososos much zari ❤️❤️ really appreciate it xxx
May shed a little tear :( You're simply amazing and so brave! ♥
Thankyou anni 🥰🥰🥰
Girl I am so happy for you!! Sending you LOADS of power and love ❤️❤️
I have never been to a gym but I started yoga and working out at home during quarantine and it’s literally changed my life. My physical and mental health has been so much better!
I love watching your videos NEVER STOP! YOU ARE AMAZING ❤️
I needed this video, I’m in the mindset at the moment of trying to achieve visible abs and a low body fat % - in my head if I achieve this then I’ve won in life, it’ll make me happy.. I’m hoping I can follow your footsteps and realise fitness isn’t about how visible my abs are
You will 10000% get there beth! I know it’s hard! I know it is! But be strong ❤️❤️
The respect for you is growing tenfolds
Thankyou Chloe xx
Thank you so much Leila, you have no idea how motivated and excited you've gotten me about actually fuelling myself properly. It really helps to repeatedly say 'i was not healthy back then' if I ever think 'i looked good before'. You're proof that you can look just as amazing if not better (albeit in a different way) than before and be mentally happy and healthy too. Thank you ❤️❤️
Thankyou so much angel! Have a lovely day cx
THANK YOU for making this video. As someone who used to count every calorie and get so focused on the “goals,” I think it’s so important to share this information. If I had done more research with my fitness journey at the beginning and heard stories like this, I would’ve saved myself a lot of grief!
Leila, Leila! I relate to you more than anyone else I follow. Our journeys are so so similar, wanting abs, starting to want to change our bodies at such a young age. Literally your whole journey!
I’ve been following you for years and can’t even tell you how proud I am to see you truly happy, flourishing, and G L O W I NG!
I am proud of you for being so honest and letting yourself be in such a vulnerable position, this video and your whole journey will and already has inspired and helped so many people, I don’t even think you realise!
You look incredible! Your shape! Your skin, hair, the list is endless. You are a beautiful beautiful human being.
You have really just drilled into me why I am on this journey and why gaining weight IS COOL and shouldn’t be feared!
Thankyou Leila, truly T H A N K Y O U😭❤️
Thankyou sooo much jemima 🥰🥰🥰 all the love girl x
Yes preach it Leila! I love that you are using your platform to express the concerns around the ideal body types that is circulating around social media, where girls are idolising a certain body type and to want to have abs and have an hour glass body because they believe that it determines their self-worth. Which is honestly not the case! They must realise that looking healthy doesn't mean to have a slim figure.. not at all! It varies from person to person, body type to body type! Thank you for addressing this! You are amazing 💛
Thankyou sososososo much Gill 🥰✨
This is one of the most inspiring videos I have watched. For someone that also has struggled with their relationship with food and exercise, you have definitely made a positive impact on me and I am sure many others. You are a role model to so many humans and you should be so proud of how far you've come
Thankyou sososososo much Paige!! It brings a tear to my eye!! Genuinely! I am so thankful for you alllll ❤️✨
I have to say that I've watched all of your videos and I honestly didn't even notice your weight gain and truthfully I'm the kind of person that picks up on that. So why haven't I noticed? Because you look stunning either way and your personality is radiant. You are extremely inspirational and have inspired my own body positive journey. Thanks for another great video Leila!
Thankyou so much Erika ❤️✨ you’re amazing !!!
I started following you a couple of months ago and honestly, I did not even know about your ED until recently. I just love your videos because you are such a happy person and that motivates me so much. I did not workout for a year because of the pandemic I really lost my motivation and I felt a bit depressed but honestly watching your videos every day really worked as an antidepressant for me ! I'm working out again and I'm spending more time in the kitchen. as a side note, you look great right now, no matter what. and yes I did notice that your hair looked unhealthy in old pictures and now it looks silky smooth! . ❤️❤️❤️
Thankyou so much Maria 🥰🥰🥰 and youre doing amazing! I can’t believe my videos have helped you! You honestly don’t know how much that makes me BEYOND happy xxx
Thank you for this video and your honesty. The quest for abs can be quite detrimental to our health. I had only discovered your channel in 2020 and it actually has gotten me to eat more and not fear certain foods like biscuits ice cream etc. Now I include it regularly. Less restrictive. ❤️👍😊
Thankyou girl 🥰🥰 biscuits are fabuloussssss!!
this transformation is insane xx
Thankyou girl xox
It's actually amazing how much you have transformed Leila. Your happiness is genuine and infectious!
I also think RUclips may have really helped you -youve evolved so much (so well and it's SO positive and so good!) Over the last year! Xx
😭😭😭 thankyou soo much Elle!!! I see EVERY comment of yours and I’m thankful xx
@@Leilahannoun 🥺🥺 me rn!
love to leila and the leila who busts her dreams out the window!! you go get it girl! xx
@@Lolathebluesmartie 🥰🥰🥰🥰
Leila, thank you for opening up and talking about this subject, I imagine how difficult it is, these topics always are, especially when you are an influencer and are on the internet in some way. Anyway, I just wanted to thank you for everything and congratulate you girl! I'm also so happy to have appeared at the end of your video with the message hahaha
Thankyou so much angel! I’m so glad you’re growing 🥰🥰
Leilaa, I just got goosebumps.... Wow so inspiring, you really gave me hope and power to ditch diettalk, bad self talk and all that,... I also Don't have period for 2 years now... But I love working out and I'm still scared of eating more, gaining weight and when I do i feel so gross... Just thanks for being you and sharing your story. I love love love you. Stay safe and keep being this goofy kind person you are. Xx
Thankyou sososos much girl!!! I really do appreciate it!! You’re amazing!! Just remember that! Forever and always xxx
thank you for this video and sharing your story, I just turned 15 years old but I'm struggling with anorexia recovery too and this is really inspiring and reassuring !
Please talk to someone and seek help xxx
You are truly one of the best role models out there - it’s a lot to post something like this you are so strong 💞💞
Thank you so much angel xx
this video made me cry thank you leila for being so honest and kind I love all of your content
Thankyou girl! Sending my love xx
THIS video really is a big motivator to keep on my "all in" recovery journey. I can see myself in you in so many different stages of my life and these types of videos are really just a big eye-opener that I NEED to keep on doing this for the sake of my health. So thank you for sharing your health/ weight gain transformation with the world and being so reflective on this topic!
You looked shredded then but you still look shredded now but now you are absolutely glowing! You look happier, you look stronger and just amazing 💖💖 thank you for sharing this I can 100% relate ! I've been obsessed with abs since I was 14 but I literally can not get them because I'm not genetically gifted in that way ! The weight gain has been a difficult journey but I've never been as strong or as fast before 💪💪
Thankyou so much angel xx
this was such an emotional video, i can def relate with a lot of the stuff you said but i especiallyyyyy understand the lying to pretend you're healthy - it's such a twisted thing but we all do it when we're in that unhealthy mindset.... don't feel bad about it, i'm sure most of your audience understands exactly what your mindset was when you did it so don't beat yourself up about it! im so happy you're in such a good place now, it really shines through your videos! you're an inspiration xx much love
Thankyou so much angel 😪😪🥰🥰 I really appreciate it xx
Amazing of you to be so open and honest very few “influencers” would be able to do this so we really appreciate it ❤️
Thankyou so much Margot xx
You are such an amazing human being! Helping so many people with your content and good vibes ❤️
Thankyou so much Emily xx
You look absolutely beautiful and most importantly you are an incredible and brave person on the inside. Thank you for spreading such amazing messages and advice, you are truly inspirational and just so kind. Big thank you❤️
Im soooo glad that you did this video and i trink you are such an inspiration especially for younger girls who struggel with their body image🤗😌and to add:you look so much healthier and happier🥰🤗
I used to eat like 1100kcal and training 4x week 2h per day. I can't even say I looked good because I can't remember that period of time 😅 I clearly remember just this one saturday night, I was on the couch with my husband and I started sweating even if I was cold, my skin hurt, like even the clothes bothered me. At a certain point I also struggled to breathe really bad. That particular night I understood that I needed to change something, I'm still struggling I'm not going to lie, but I'm trying my best and that's what I need right now.
Leila I started following you on IG a few months back (since the pineapple pizza post, I clearly remember that for some reasons) and not long ago I also started watching you here on RUclips, and let me tell you, you completely changed my life. I used to be so scared of food and I always wanted the body you have, and seeing you eat all that delicious food shocked me, I'm not joking, at first I thought you were crazy. How could you be so beautiful and still eating all of that? What kind of sorcery was 🤣? But the more I follow you the more I completely understand your message and your vision of the world. I'm not the leanest girl on the planet but surely I'm healthy, I enjoy my food, I'm so much more happy with the way I look and Im starting to not be afraid of food anymore. So thank you Leila, from the bottom of my heart.
Wow what a message I leave here 🤣
Reading this was amazing!!! I was smiling all the way through! I Thankyou for taking the time to share your experience and mostly thankyou for your support!!! ps. I can confirm Pinapple does belong on pizza 🤣🤣
@@Leilahannoun I know right? Such a good combo, I love that too 🤣
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