Crystal lost 38 pounds

Crystal lost 38 pounds. The last five years of her life have been transformative in a variety of ways. When her mom passed away in 2016, she decided to focus on health and change the narrative of her life. She started her natural hair journey, opened a business, and began her weight loss journey.

Age: 37 years old
Starting weight: 178 pounds
Current weight: 140 pounds
Height: 4’9″

The last five years have been the most transformative years of my life. I have struggled with a failing marriage, depression, and anxiety. I also big chopped my natural hair. This was the beginning of a journey of healing through self-love, awareness, and acceptance. My natural hair journey also inspired my dream of owning my own beauty supply business. 

I suddenly lost my mom in 2016. That was the catalyst for me to change the direction of my life and focus on my health. My mother, grandmother and great grandmother did not live to see the age of 60. I decided to change the narrative. I sought counseling for my mental illness and learned healthy coping mechanisms. 

In 2017, I opened my business, Kinks and Curls Natural Hair Boutique. We specialize in natural hair products and protective styles. I’m thankful I get to help women learn how to love and take care of their natural hair. 

Continuing my road to healing, I decided to end my toxic 18-year marriage in 2018. For my health, I started to make small changes. This included eliminating dairy, cutting out bread, and drinking more water. I increased my water intake and ate more fruit and vegetables, paired with intermittent fasting.

I started to walk 3-4 times a week consistently (mostly for my mental health), which ignited a new interest in hiking. Now, my children and I are hiking different trails regularly. I’ve lost 30+ pounds in the last two years. At my heaviest, I weighed 178 pounds. I currently weigh 140 pounds. I look and feel much better, and most importantly, I’m happy. 

My advice for people who want to lose weight: Start where you are. I started walking 20-30 mins a day and worked my way up to 3-4 miles per day. It was gradual but consistent progress.

Instagram: @love.light.curls