Kisha lost 153 pounds

Transformation of the Day: Kisha lost 153 pounds. She shared with us how she worked over the last 13 years to lose weight naturally and keep it off. Today, she’s a vegan who practices alkaline eating habits and intermittent fasting, but she began her journey with Weight Watchers. Check out her inspiring transformation story.

What was your motivation? What inspired you to keep going when you wanted to give up?
The birth of my son and wanting to be around for him was definitely a major factor in my desire to lose weight. but most importantly I wanted to do it for myself. When I reached my heaviest weight at 298 pounds I became frightened at the thought of being immobilized. I wanted to live a healthy and active life. I would often visualize an attractive healthier version of myself and this helped to motivate me on the days I felt like giving up. It was far from easy but I stayed committed, kept my eyes on the prize and never gave up!

When did you start your journey? How long did your transformation take?
It’s been a never-ending journey for me. I struggled with my weight as a young child into adulthood.  Growing up, I was considered “the fat one” in the group and was often picked-on and ostracized for my appearance. I went through life feeling as if I was lesser than and it caused my self-esteem to lower severely.

I officially began losing weight (little by little) in 2005 and I’m still working at it. I can sum my weight loss journey up in two rounds; losing 98 lbs in the first round (2005-2015) and down 55 lbs in the second round (2015-2018) totaling 153 pounds, all without any surgeries.

How did you change your eating habits?
I joined Weight Watchers in 2005, a few months after giving birth to my son. The program taught me how to be disciplined with eating. I learned about portion control and how to make better choices which catapulted me into my weight loss journey. As the weight came off, I gained a better understanding of how my body works and I was able to take control. I took my power back. I was able to successfully maintain my weight with the knowledge I obtained from the program. I never gained any of the weight back!

In 2016, I became Vegan which definitely helped transform my body for the better and now I feel more energetic and vibrant. I drink at least a gallon of water a day. I also practice intermittent fasting and eat a mostly alkaline diet. I credit Dr. Sebi’s Beyond Vegan teachings for introducing me to a plant-based alkaline diet. Now I use food as a tool to achieve maximum health. 

My weight management regiment now consists of me drinking at least a gallon of spring water a day, practicing intermittent fasting and sticking to an alkaline plant based diet during the weekdays. I cut back on processed foods and replaced them with organic fruits, vegetables and grains… but I allow myself more freedom on the weekends. Since becoming vegan I feel more vibrant and energetic. The health benefits of a plant-based diet are undeniable.     

What did your workout routine look like?
At first, my workout routine consisted of only power walking on my treadmill/outdoors whenever I got the chance. In 2015, I joined a boot camp boxing gym which I still attend three to four days a week. These days, I have an intense workout plan which includes yoga, running, boxing/kickboxing, and light weight lifting three to four days a week. On the days I can’t make it to the gym, I’ll use my jumprope. 

What was your starting weight? What is your current weight?
I started my journey when I reached 298 pounds. Now, I weigh 145 pounds. My height is 5’5″.

What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned?
The biggest lesson I’ve learned is that if you really want it you have to make your mind up to succeed no matter what and then you cannot fail. Everything begins in the mind. When you have the right mindset, you become unstoppable. I’ve also learned to always believe in myself no matter what and that its ok to take my time while figuring out what works best for me. It’s a process.

What I’ve learned most is that we have the power to take complete control of our health. It’s not easy at first, but with a little discipline and determination we can achieve any goal imaginable. For anyone working towards reaching a desired health goal or even if you’re contemplating just starting, my best advise is to take baby steps, do your research and practice what works best for you. Do whatever you can and eventually you’ll find your way.

What advice do you have for people who want to lose weight?
It helps to focus on the finish line or the preferred end result. Try to envision yourself the way you’ll look and feel when you make it to your goal. Use this as a tool to help motivate and drive you whenever you feel like quitting.

If you’re contemplating on starting your weight loss journey but feel intimidated, stop thinking too much about it and just start already! Don’t give yourself anytime to punk out! Listen to your intuition and do whatever works for you. If you hear about a diet plan that interests you, take the time to do your research. Mental preparation is key. Learn how to motivate and encourage yourself – this is vital. It becomes much easier when you get over that hump and start seeing results. You’ll figure it all out so get started and keep going! You got this. 

Instagram: @sucha_vibrantthing