By Guest Writer: Cristyn Rodriguez
“Hi” I’m Cristyn Rodriguez, a wife, teacher and mother of four amazing sons. Today, I’m a guest writer, sharing my experience with intermittent fasting because I want others to learn that success is possible for them too. It’s been a life-changing journey physically, mentally and spiritually. If you’ve been thinking of trying this method, I encourage you to do some research before you dive in! All you have to lose is weight and you’ll gain a whole new you to discover.
I was born in the U.S. with a blend of Hispanic and Middle Eastern roots, my curves have always been an intrinsic part of who I am. I embraced labels that mirrored my lifestyle: "Bon Bon" of the family, "Mi Gordita Linda," and numerous others. After navigating the whirlwind of having two sets of twin boys (a story for another time) and reaching my heaviest weight, sticking to a routine for weight loss became an uphill battle. Life evolved, chapters turned, and amidst it all, I lost sight of caring for myself—neglecting the attention I readily gave to everything and everyone else. The roles of "Wife" and "Mommy" took precedence, and I inadvertently placed myself at the bottom of the priority list.
By placing myself last, I was, in fact, putting my family at a disadvantage. If I wasn’t healthy, how could I remain strong for them? I yearned to run alongside my sons, climb hills with ease, and roll around on the floor without struggling to stand up afterward. But my reality fell short of these aspirations.
In December of 2022, during our family holiday trip, as I gazed at our annual Christmas card, a silent plea echoed within me: "Grant me the strength to embark on this journey toward health and the unwavering motivation to see it through." I believed that initiating this path during the holidays would set the tone for conquering it all. Quickly, I learned the incredible power our minds wield in shaping our destinies.
My strategy was intermittent fasting. Delving into research about its nuances—what to eat, when to eat, time frames—I embraced the 15:9 plan. Utilizing the "Fastic" app, I meticulously monitored my fasting times and weight loss progress. Adjusting my eating patterns initially posed challenges; orchestrating dinner earlier to meet my 6 pm cutoff demanded a shift in family routines. But putting my goals first was crucial for my mind and body to synchronize, gradually transforming my "plan" into a seamless routine.
As my body acclimated to fasting periods and weight loss plateaued, I pushed myself further, transitioning from 16:8 to 18:6, eventually settling into a fasting regimen for 22-23 hours daily. Surprisingly, my body thrived on one meal a day. Occasionally, I heed its call for an extra meal, but I never indulge as I once did.
This year has been a testament to reflection—on my life, weight loss journey, achievements, and motivation. Shedding 82 pounds, I stand atop my world. I radiate confidence, feeling beautiful and empowered in the clothes I wear. The mask I once hid behind—my glasses, shielding my round face—is now a relic of the past. Your mind is the linchpin in achieving any goal. I advise anyone embarking on a weight loss journey: listen to your body and allow it time to adapt. Weight loss isn’t swift, habits don’t change overnight, and intermittent fasting isn't a quick fix—it's a lifestyle shift.
While setting a goal weight is crucial, don’t fixate on it; celebrate every pound lost. It imbues the journey towards your goal with profound gratification. Believe in yourself, acknowledge your courage to change, trust the process, and remember, regardless of setbacks, you’re in control of getting back on track. Celebrate where you started and how far you’ve come!
Got questions about my experience with intermittent fasting? Reach out zum@zumbeedo.com
P.S. Please check with your physician to determine if intermittent fasting is the best option for you.
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