Back again after 3 years - a little wiser now

[Emma1]

Hello.. I joined Cohens in 2007 and lost 22kg. My goal weight was 58 - 62 but I reached 69kg and could not lose anymore. I was a size 8 / 10 but was told that I needed to keep losing weight. I think I felt overwhelmed as I did not think I could lose another 10kg so I kind of gave up. My weight is now back up to 88 and I am much wiser now for the experience. I am solid and quite muscular with broad shoulders so I just dont think 58 - 62 is realistic for me and I will now aim for where i left off three years ago at 68kg.. I am planning to start in February as I have some holidays in January. Any advice from others that have retutned for the 2nd time would be appreciated. Cheers - Emma

[Ciors]

Welcome Emma, I'm a first timer...hoping to keep it that way lol...you did such a great job last time, I'm sure you'll be just as successful this time too. You might find the following thread interesting in regards to people doing Chohen's twice.

http://newyouforum.com/forum/showthread.php?t=14933

[Dezzy]

Hi Emma.... I'm on a return journey too. I think the best advice I can give you is to work on your head space. Work on why you eat, what your triggers are, coping mechanisms, all the emotional baggage that comes with being overweight.

The plan can only go so far in helping us lose. We need to work on the mental side of weight loss before we can succeed at losing. You've got a few weeks before February to work out your reasons and goals. Seek help if you need it. Hang around the forum and post regularly.

Most of all enjoy the ride.

[Collie]

The other thing I think is don't get too hung up on the numbers, what weight you think you should be. Dr Cohen has very good reasons for why he selects our goal weights and I find that questioning things only does my head in. You'll know when you get there, there are many parts of this journey that are not in our control, how fast our bodies lose the weight and also what weight is right and natural for us. Having done this thing twice, I've ended up lower in kg second time round. And feel much much more in balance, like I'm home. My body also tolerates the things you do to it much better when you're in the right balance.

To keep your weight off permanently this time the process of refeed is crucial and it's pretty useless unless your close to your goal and your body is sending you the signals that its ready for it.

All I'm saying is that focus on your plan perhaps, not the numbers.....