How is weight loss and mental focus related, right? This TikToker shed 10 stone by doing just that

Losing weight can be one of life’s most challenging journeys, but one TikTok creator, known as Cheeks, proved that it’s possible to achieve dramatic results. Cheeks, who goes by @big_silver_bird on TikTok and Instagram, recently shared her story of losing 10 stone, emphasizing that the most crucial aspect of her weight loss journey was not diet or exercise, but a mental focus.

Cheeks has struggled with her weight since her 20s. Initially, her concerns were superficial, revolving around how clothes fit and how she compared to her peers. But as she entered her late 30s and early 40s, her weight became a significant health issue. She found herself battling not just with self-image but also with physical pain and deteriorating health, conditions exacerbated by years of unhealthy eating habits.

Married with children, Cheeks and her husband shared a love for food, which often led to overindulgence. However, as the years passed, her weight spiralled out of control, leading to a critical moment of self-reflection. Faced with the prospect of joint replacement surgery, Cheeks realized that her eating habits were causing her severe physical distress and she needed to change.

In her TikTok videos, Cheeks shared that while advice about calorie deficits, protein intake, and metabolic rates is valuable, it doesn’t address the core issue that many face on their weight loss journey: the mental battle. For her, the turning point came when she confronted the reality of what her weight was doing to her body. This “reality check” was the catalyst for her transformation.

Cheeks emphasized that weight loss is “99 per cent mental.” She believes that anyone can achieve similar results if they commit to the process and are honest with themselves about the impact of their habits. “There’s nothing special about me,” she said, “I’m just a normal middle-aged woman who decided to take control.”

Her message to others is simple but powerful: “It’s worth it. My God, it’s so, so worth it. Do it.”

Analysis:

Political: Cheeks’ story taps into broader societal discussions about public health and the role of government in promoting healthy lifestyles. With obesity rates rising globally, her emphasis on mental resilience could influence public health campaigns. Governments and health organizations might consider integrating mental health support into weight loss programs, recognizing that the battle against obesity is not just physical but psychological as well. If more attention is given to the mental aspects of weight loss, we might see a shift in how policies are crafted to combat obesity, with a greater focus on holistic approaches that include mental wellness.

Social: Cheeks’ transformation also resonates on a social level, particularly in how society views weight loss and body image. Her journey underscores the importance of self-awareness and self-compassion, challenging the often superficial focus on appearance. In a culture where quick fixes and fad diets are promoted, her message of mental commitment offers a refreshing perspective. It encourages people to look beyond the scales and focus on long-term well-being. Her story might inspire others to pursue weight loss for health reasons rather than societal pressure, leading to a broader shift in how weight loss is perceived and pursued.

Racial: While Cheeks’ story is personal, it indirectly touches on the intersection of race and health. In many communities of colour, particularly in the UK and the US, obesity rates are disproportionately high. This can be linked to a range of factors, including socioeconomic status, access to healthy food, and cultural attitudes towards body image. Cheeks’ focus on mental resilience can be particularly empowering in these communities, where weight loss challenges are often compounded by external pressures. Her story could serve as a catalyst for broader discussions on how mental health support can be tailored to address the unique challenges faced by different racial groups in the pursuit of health.

Gender: Cheeks’ experience as a middle-aged woman highlights the unique challenges women face in weight loss, particularly after childbirth and as they age. Hormonal changes, societal expectations, and the pressures of balancing family and personal health can make weight loss especially challenging for women. By sharing her journey, Cheeks provides a relatable narrative for other women who might be facing similar struggles. Her emphasis on mental strength rather than physical perfection challenges the conventional narrative that women must adhere to strict diets or gruelling exercise regimes to be healthy. This shift in focus could inspire a more supportive and understanding approach to women’s health, both personally and in the healthcare system.

Economic: Economically, Cheeks’ story raises questions about the accessibility of weight loss resources. While she emphasizes mental resilience, which is free, other aspects of weight loss—such as healthy food, gym memberships, and medical support—can be costly. This disparity highlights the need for more affordable and accessible resources for those seeking to lose weight. Her message could encourage businesses and governments to invest in mental health resources as part of weight loss programs, potentially making a significant impact on public health outcomes. Additionally, as more people seek to adopt a mindset-focused approach to weight loss, there could be a rise in demand for services that offer mental health support, creating new opportunities in the wellness industry.