Chapter 1: The Consequences of Overindulgence

It's a typical Sunday evening, a time that should be spent preparing for the week ahead to ease the Monday morning rush and set a productive tone. However, instead of getting organized, you find yourself dozing off on the couch, struggling to find the motivation to move. All you crave is a cozy bed or perhaps another cup of tea with a few biscuits.

This Sunday has once again turned into a battle with a hangover and an urge to indulge in unhealthy snacks. The nagging question arises: "Why do I do this to myself?"

Feeling sluggish, bloated, and unmotivated is often a self-inflicted consequence. After a fun night out with my husband, I overindulged in a bit too much Sauvignon Blanc. It wasn’t until I returned home, downed a cup of tea, and devoured two rows of Cadbury’s Fruit and Nut that I realized the toll it was taking on me. My head began to spin—ugh!

Today, I visited the beach with my mother, where I treated myself to heavy foods to soothe my upset stomach, despite already having experienced an unexpected dip in the chilly English sea. While the weekend was enjoyable, I can’t shake the feeling that it could have been even better without the excesses that drained my energy.

Although I maintain a generally healthy lifestyle—allowing myself treats like wine, chocolate, and carbs—this weekend's overindulgence reminded me of how quickly one can lose their vitality.

Photo by Sander Sammy on Unsplash

The day felt wasted—no exercise, no excitement during our beach outing, and I couldn't fully enjoy the dinner my husband lovingly prepared, a veggie chili I had been anticipating all week.

This experience has highlighted how detrimental alcohol and junk food can be, leading me to wonder why people continue to make such choices regularly. I recalled a former client’s remark: “I’d forgotten how good this healthy stuff makes you feel.”

It seems many have lost touch with the benefits of a healthy lifestyle or never experienced it due to a background of processed foods and excessive drinking. Sugary, salty, and fatty delights provide an immediate pleasure that keeps you craving more.

If you’ve never felt the uplift of a healthier life, why would you choose to abandon what feels good, even if temporarily?

I wish I could offer everyone a taste of the invigorating feeling that comes with healthy living. Perhaps it would inspire them to opt for moderation over excess. All I can do is share my experiences and the advantages of a healthy lifestyle in hopes that others might think, “I’m ready to try this healthy approach; I’m tired of feeling awful for fleeting moments of indulgence.”

If your diet consists of processed foods, frequent overeating, and excessive alcohol, you’re missing out on countless benefits:

• Reduced stress levels
• High energy and enthusiasm
• Mental clarity and focus
• Better sleep quality
• A strong, flexible body
• Consistent healthy weight
• Increased self-confidence
• Balanced hormones leading to fewer mood swings
• A positive outlook on life
• Enjoyment of food without guilt
• Comfort in your own skin
• Regular, healthy digestion

Why would you trade all of this for brief moments of pleasure?

You don’t need to eliminate everything you love. As you start making healthier food choices, you’ll notice cravings for junk food diminish. Gradually easing off sugar, salt, and unhealthy fats will help you recognize how poorly those options make you feel, leading you to prefer nourishing foods over junk.

Photo by Seth Doyle on Unsplash

Transforming your eating habits takes time and effort. Remember, processed foods are designed to keep you craving more—it's simple but not always easy.

Feeling bloated and fatigued isn’t enjoyable either. If you relate to my current discomfort, I assure you that small changes can lead to significant improvements.

Avoid setting yourself up for failure; begin with small adjustments and gradually build upon them. Pay attention to your body, and make wise choices.

Choose delayed gratification over immediate satisfaction until your body adapts to its new, healthier diet.

Ask yourself: Would you rather enjoy fleeting satisfaction or a lifetime of wellness?

For ongoing motivation and inspiration to prioritize your health, consider subscribing to my newsletter: Rediscover You | Lisa Johnson | Substack.

Chapter 2: Finding Balance in Life

In this insightful podcast, Dr. Mark Hyman discusses how to reset your health and overcome feelings of fatigue and discomfort.

This video explores the implications of excessive water consumption and how it can affect your overall health.