Update: We featured Ashley’s story a year ago when she’d lost 50 pounds. She wrote in this month to let us know that she has not only maintained her weight loss, but now down 25 more pounds. Check out how she is continuing to transform her body and build a healthy lifestyle below. (Check out her new pics too!) You can read the original post on how she lost the weight here.
Through consistent clean eating, learning what works best for my body shape, & going hard in the gym (weights & High Intensity Interval Training cardio), I’ve managed to drop tons of inches & body fat. As you can see it takes time, & I’m still pushing to get my body fat % lower. Follow my journey on Instagram: @WatchMeMelt & Facebook.com/watchmemelt2
Since I sent my last picture, I had to grow mentally and spiritually. I realized that losing weight wasn’t for a birthday, event, vacation, holiday, etc. Instead, it is about living a OVERALL healthier life. With fitness, I learned that I must always continue to push myself. If it is too easy, it will not create the change I am looking for.
I maintain my weight by continuing to eat a clean diet with plenty. I also learned with fitness that you do not need to do endless hours of cardio. I learned to incorporate HIIT training and weights to further sculpt my body.
My biggest challenge has always been food. I love sweets but I have learned about the ingredients in them and how they cause us to continue craving and wanting more. Therefore, I now allow myself to eat sweets in moderation (1 x a week). This helps me to stay focused mentally and on track. I still have a good 20 pounds I would like to lose and I will eventually reach my goal. So far, I am down 75 pounds (25 more since the last story) .
My message to the women who find me inspirational:
1) Learn WHY your changing your eating habits and incorporating healthier foods is good for you. Watch documentaries that talk about animal meat, obesity in America, and the preservatives in packaged foods. We all know that we want to lose weight, but understanding WHY you gained it in the first place will help you to make healthier options.
2) Do it because you want to live an overall healthier life vs just looking good for your family reunion or some other event. Once that event is over, guess what will happen? You will slowly gain that weight (and more) back!
3) Don’t overwhelm yourself. Make small changes and overtime they will become big. Live your life and don’t become obsessed with weight loss. It will happen…trust me!
Jasmine says
You were sexy before you lost all that, and your still sexy now.
Barbara says
Thank you Ashley; this is an amazing sharing. To me, it serves as a reminder that weight loss takes time, to continue working hard and to understand the true purpose, vision and goals of regaining ultimate health. This came right on time for me. From January now June I’ve lost 26 pound. It feels great but now am anxious to have weight come off faster. However, now I’ll relaxed be thankful for my progress and be committed to continue, however long it takes. Thanks for reflecting the truth. I’m inspired. Be wishes; you look great!
Latisha Toliver says
You said it right! “DONT BECOME OBSESSED”