A Dream Realized (June 2025)
June Update
Weight (214)
Workout Days (71)
I continue to turn to a blank white Word document, attempting to journal my experience toward a healthier body image. I continue to share something so personal with the world, because it provides a heightened level of motivation. Like a teacher peering over your shoulder while you take a test, or a supervisor who micromanages, I require someone who can hold me accountable. I don't want to put all that pressure on my partner, so I am turning to you (friends and complete strangers on the internet). I continue to share this journey, because we have all had struggles with body image. No one is immune, but we should all know that we are not alone.
Weight Loss
Earlier this year, I stepped on the scale and shockingly weighed more than I ever had in my life. Despite years of struggle, moments filled with triumphs and setbacks, my efforts delivered me a number that shredded any pride I had remaining. Looking at myself in the mirror, I felt fat and ashamed. I was embarrassed. For a brief time, I resigned to the thought that, "Maybe this is who I am." This thought was painful. If I wasn't careful, it could become depressive. I decided to continue fighting.
Diet
After I finished the 2025 Seattle International Film Festival, I returned to intermittent fasting based on some feedback I got from my partner. Back in 2019, as I prepared myself for the Pacific Crest Trail, I turned to this form of dieting and saw noticeable results. Three weeks into the process, I have lost three pounds. I am also attempting to be more mindful of what I eat. I alone can control what I put in my mouth. I am trying to ensure that what goes in is more fruits and vegetables, and a lot less sweets.
Mental Health
I am loving my fasting challenges. It feels like a game to me, and I enjoy that. As of right now, I feel like I am in a much better headspace than I was a few months ago. It feels good to have something to focus my attention, keep me motivated, and a goal worth chasing.
Workouts
Right now, I am hitting the gym three to four times a week. My workouts have focused on a lot of strength training with a mix of cardio. I am still running (and Seattle summer is allowing a lot of it). I have started using a collection of apps to track workouts, runs, and daily steps. It is my humble attempt to use technology to instill some science and discipline into this journey. Much like my fasting app, I find this too keeps me motivated, and it feels like a game with a goal I can win.
Be good to each other,
Nathan
As a member of the factory, you are taking a stand for human powered creation.
