The Transformative Power of Food: 29 Kilograms of Self-Discovery

The Heart of Home: The Evolution of My Culinary Journey

Growing up, the kitchen was the heart of our home, filled with the smells of homegrown vegetables and roasted meats. My mother had a special gift for turning simple ingredients into meals made with love. For her, cooking was a powerful way to show care, making us feel safe and cherished. Gary Chapman, in his book “Five Love Languages”, explains that acts of service—like cooking—are deep expressions of love. I learned early on that a warm bowl of soup could lift spirits and create connections, even in silence. With ten siblings, food was at the heart of our family gatherings, and I cherish memories of hearty stews on chilly nights and bright salads in the summer sun. Preparing meals was a joyful way to bond and heal.

However, as I grew older, I faced past pains that lingered beneath the surface, driving a relentless quest for approval. In my corporate job in London and Switzerland, I often turned to food for comfort, seeking solace in dishes that reminded me of home. Yet, my eating habits worsened as my career advanced, leading to missed meals and irregular dining hours. When I became a mother, I felt a strong desire to nourish my children as my mother had nourished me, hoping to create a warm atmosphere around food. Unfortunately, balancing a demanding job with parenting left little time for family connection or self-care. Meals became rushed and solitary, transforming the kitchen from a space of warmth into a whirlwind of hurried tasks, robbing me of the joy I once cherished and echoing the very struggles I had tried to escape.

The Struggle: From Comfort to Escape

Over time, stress and loneliness took a toll on my body. I moved from smaller to larger sizes, struggling with feelings of judgement and shame. I missed the joy of shared meals and the connections they brought. It became clear that my relationship with food had changed from comfort to escape, turning into a source of anxiety. Over the years, I tried many diets and fads, but none worked long-term. They offered short-term weight loss but at too great a cost. Mentally, I wasn’t strong enough to handle dieting. Growing up in an environment that didn’t encourage exercise, I disliked

sports, and the thought of going to the gym surrounded by others terrified me, clashing with my introverted nature.

Embracing a New Philosophy: The Nutritarian Lifestyle

In my quest for change, I discovered Dr. Joel Fuhrman’s Nutritarian Lifestyle, which focuses on a nutrient-rich, plant-based diet. This approach celebrates colourful fruits and vegetables, promotes disease prevention, and encourages holistic well-being. His teachings showed me food as an act of self-care, reflecting my self-worth. Choosing nourishing foods became a form of self-love while neglecting my needs felt like denial. Ironically, while an active life is encouraged, it’s not mandatory, and I lost weight without exercising. The most physical activity I did was my usual 10,000 steps of walking. This approach doesn’t restrict how much you eat; it’s about variety and making good choices. I eat much more now than ever before, yet I’ve lost weight.

Milestones of Self-Discovery: A Transformative Journey

Reflecting on my journey, I recognise my significant milestones since January 2024, including losing 29 kilograms and returning to my pre-twin size. This transformation has reshaped my body and built my confidence and self-love, allowing me to embrace vibrant colours and styles that celebrate who I am. My relationship with food has changed profoundly; I no longer view it merely as a source of comfort during stressful times. Instead, I’ve come to see food as a means of self-care and a foundation for health.

Today, I approach eating with intention, treating each meal as an opportunity to nourish myself with foods that enhance my energy and well-being. This mindful eating practice has revitalised my physical health, boosting my energy and mental clarity. Furthermore, it has strengthened my emotional resilience, empowering me to tackle challenges with a positive mindset. My newfound awareness of food’s tastes, textures, and origins has deepened my appreciation for its diversity, transforming my meals into celebrations of self-love and care.

The Bigger Picture: Self-Compassion and Connection

Ultimately, my acceptance of food’s power goes beyond nutrition; it reflects a deeper understanding of life. Caring for my body is an act of self-compassion that resonates throughout every part of my life. By honouring my relationship with food, I also honour myself, fostering a greater sense of fulfilment, joy, and connection to the world around me.

A Celebration of Life

This journey has imparted a vital lesson: Food is more than sustenance; it is a celebration of life—a medium through which we express our values, emotions, and connections. By embracing this perspective, I have unlocked a profound appreciation for the simple act of eating and its transformative impact on our lives.

I invite you to consider your relationship with food. What role does it play in your life? How does it express love, connection, or comfort? Ask yourself:

• What does food mean to me, and how do my eating habits reflect my values?

• How can I foster deeper connections with others through shared meals?

• Am I using food as a source of comfort or escape? How can I shift that perspective to embrace nourishment instead?

• What small steps can I take to practice intentional eating and choose foods that truly nourish me?

• How does my relationship with food influence my overall well-being and selfcompassion?

• Finally, how can I celebrate eating and appreciate the joy it brings to my life?

By engaging with these questions, you can cultivate a more loving and fulfilling relationship with what you feed your body. Remember, each meal is an opportunity to nourish your body and honour yourself, as well as the connections that enrich your life. Embrace this journey, and let your relationship with food reflect the love and care you deserve.