For the Australian nurse, lockdown walks for mental health transformed her health.
Samantha Abreu, a 25-year-old Australian nurse, has improved her health by walking every day and practicing mindful eating. In just a year, Ms. Abreu—who had previously battled weight and overindulged in processed foods—has lost over 45 kg.
Ms. Abreu wore a size 22/24 and weighed over 110 kg at her heaviest. She was worn out from working long nursing shifts, and she was inspired to make a difference after seeing how her elderly patients with mobility impairments were limited.
“As a child, I did not like movement,” Ms Abreu said. “I’d cry if we went on a walk.”
In addition, she used to order food from Uber Eats in secret before her parents arrived home from work.
“I’d have urges to eat so much to the point of being uncomfortable,” she explained.
It was during the COVID-19 lockdowns that things turned. Her daily walks, which were supposed to help her mental health, became a pivotal moment. Ms. Abreu came to understand the health benefits of exercise for her body and mind.
Ms. Abreu controls her portions and chooses healthier options, even though she hasn’t made any significant dietary changes. For instance, she makes “wrap pizzas” as a healthier substitute for regular pizzas.
Today, Abreu is slimmer and in better health. She works out four times a week, walks 10,000 steps a day (equivalent to five miles), and even throws in 5-kilometer runs. Ms. Abreu says she feels “comfortable and safe” in her own skin at her current weight of 67 kg and size 8.
The narrative of Ms. Abreu shows the effectiveness of little lifestyle adjustments. Walking every day and adopting mindful eating practices can greatly enhance general health and wellbeing.
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