Overcoming Overthinking: A Journey to Balance and Wellness

The Realization

Yes, I tend to overthink and overcomplicate things—far more than I should! Ironically, that’s not always the smartest approach. Time and time again, life reminds me that sometimes the simplest way is also the most effective.

As I progress through Day 12 of my 21-Day Natural Walking Challenge, I’ve noticed a surprising change—my waist has already slimmed down by another 2 cm, without any deliberate effort to lose weight. Over the past 18 months, I’ve lost more than 10 kg, again, without actively trying. I know it sounds like a marketing gimmick for a quick-fix diet pill, but it’s the absolute truth.

A Look Back: My Fitness Obsession

In 2013, I was intensely focused on fitness. I meticulously tracked every meal and every workout, following strict training regimens. I competed in CrossFit competitions and participated in obstacle races like Tough Mudder.

While I thrived on the adrenaline rush of competition, I won’t deny that aesthetics played a role. Like most people, I wanted to look good. While I fully acknowledge that physical appearance is not defined by weight or numbers, I often used those metrics as a measure of self-worth.

It wasn’t until I discovered Natural Walking and open-heart meditation that I realized just how much pressure I had placed on my body. And no, I haven’t reached enlightenment yet—I still want to look good (even after all that meditation!). But I finally understood that I had been overcomplicating everything—fitness, health, and overall well-being. I was obsessively strict, to the point of feeling guilty about eating 99% dark chocolate (yes, really!).

My Former Routine: Extreme Discipline

Here’s what my life looked like back then:

I followed a rigid clean-eating regimen, cooking all my meals and adhering to a mix of paleo, ketogenic, and intermittent fasting. If I deviated, I felt guilty.

I took supplements, including protein powders, fish oil, and vitamin D3.

I exercised daily—sometimes twice a day—incorporating CrossFit, gymnastics, and yoga. If I felt "lazy," I berated myself.

I meticulously logged every workout, along with personal reflections on heartbreaks, emotional struggles, and life events.

I maintained a gratitude journal.

I practiced meditation and breathing exercises daily.

The Results:

While I was proud of my physical accomplishments, my intense training led to frequent injuries. My self-perception fluctuated—no matter how fit I was or how many compliments I received, I never felt truly satisfied with my body. Even at my leanest, I still felt heavy.

My Routine Today: Balance and Flexibility

Fast forward to now, and my approach to health and wellness has shifted dramatically:

My diet is far more flexible. While I remain gluten-free and primarily eat fish and vegetables, I also enjoy indulgences like ice cream and french fries without guilt. I’ve even reintroduced rice into my diet.

I practice one hour of Natural Walking daily during my 21-day challenge. Outside of the challenge, I maintain a more relaxed approach but still incorporate Pilates and swimming weekly.

I meditate daily using open-heart meditation techniques.

Some days, I write in my gratitude journal; other times, I simply express gratitude aloud.

I make an effort to smile more at others—including strangers (yes, they sometimes think I’m odd!).

The Results:

My weight has naturally adjusted over time.

I feel lighter and happier.

My posture has improved, and my back pain has significantly reduced.

While I still experience ups and downs, I recover emotionally much faster than before.

Lessons Learned

Self-Compassion Is KeyI’ve learned to be kinder to myself. Mistakes happen daily, and that’s okay.

Letting Go Leads to Natural ProgressWhen I stopped obsessing, things started falling into place—including weight loss. It’s not a rigid, methodical approach, but it works.

Strictness Doesn’t Always Lead to SuccessMy natural tendency was to be strict with myself, aiming for perfection. But learning to let go—through daily life and meditation—has been one of the greatest gifts I’ve given myself.

Relaxing Is Not the Same as Being LazyNatural Walking and meditation have shown me that you can be relaxed while still putting in effort.

Effort Doesn’t Always Dictate ResultsYou can give your best without being overly hard on yourself. The outcome isn’t solely dependent on how much effort you exert.

Not Everything Is Within My ControlA liberating realization—there’s no need to stress over things beyond my influence.

Life Is Not BinaryIt’s not about right or wrong, good or bad. The goal isn’t perfection—it’s balance and well-being.

Happiness Comes from PerspectiveJoy is deeply connected to our attitude toward ourselves, our circumstances, and our choices. Gratitude, letting go, and relaxation are simple yet powerful choices.