New country. New habits. New hunger. And yet, my health objectives? Still intact. Having lost 30 kg, I was convinced about one thing only: regardless of where life leads, some habits need to come along for the ride. These 5 habits for losing weight are not so much about calories or exercise — they’re about how I stay centered in a life that’s full of change.
Reading Ingredient Labels Like It’s Gossip
Reality check: Food overseas appears healthier. They mention “low-fat,” “organic,” “plant-based,” and “natural” on the package. But the actual truth? It’s always in the fine print.
So, I read food labels like I’m catching up on the latest gossip. Who is hiding sugar? Who put mystery chemicals in there? Who’s faking healthy?
My Go-To Tricks:
- If sugar or some strange chemical is among the first 3 ingredients — I’m out.
- If I can’t say half the list, it’s a no.
- I look for fiber and protein — not only calories.
Why it keeps me grounded: It makes me pay attention and prevent sneaky weight gain, even when trying new snacks and brands.
Skipping Big Chains & Ultra-Processed Junk
Overseas, fast food restaurants are omnipresent, convenient, affordable, and quick. But here’s the thing I’ve come to realize: the more I consume them, the sicker I get.
These processed foods trigger my appetite pangs, play havoc with my digestion, and leave me feeling lethargic.
What I do instead:
- Pass on the drive-thru, accept home-cooked high-protein foods.
- Stock my pantry in advance with lentils, tofu, oats, frozen vegetables, and spices from home.
- Replace chips with makhana, fries with roasted chickpeas, soda with lemon water.
Truth: I don’t feel like eating fast food to be full, I feel like eating real food to come alive.
Making Better Choices When Eating Out
Let’s face it: we all dine out. Particularly when you’re traveling somewhere new and you want to taste all the things. But I’ve discovered a happy medium.
Instead of: Saying “no” to plans or going too crazy
I now: Make small, mighty exchanges.
My Easy Wins:
- Opt for grilled instead of fried.
- Request dressings or sauces on the side.
- Begin with a salad or soup.
- Split a dessert with someone else, rather than eating it by myself.
My mindset: I savor the meal, not bemoan it afterwards.
Moving My Body Every Single Day
Being abroad can be lonely, stressful, or just…busy. But exercise? That’s the therapy I never miss.
I don’t do hardcore workouts every day. Some days it’s yoga. Other days, a 20-minute walk, or just dancing to Bollywood music in my room.
My Rule: Move. No matter how small. Every single day.
Why it works:
- Boosts mood
- Balances hormones
- Improves sleep
- Keeps me connected to me
Even when the world outside feels foreign, movement helps me feel at home in my body.
Waking Up Early & Enjoying That One Peaceful, No-Noise Moment
This is the habit that revolutionized my life, particularly overseas.
Afore the din of the world starts — buzzers, deadlines, calls — I wake up early and treat myself to 20-30 minutes of quiet time.
What I do during that time:
- Stretch or light yoga
- Have warm lemon water or chai
- Journal, breathe, or simply be
Why it grounds me:
In a quick, hectic world — this slow beginning grants me clarity, control, and calmness. It gets the tone for a thoughtful day to come, and I never feel like I have lost myself amidst the mess.
Being abroad can disrupt everything — your routine, dining habits, and mind. But these 5 habits? They come with me, like emotional support tools for my body and mind.
They’re not only about weight loss. They’re about who I want to be, no matter where I live.
Your journey to health starts here
Chubby to Chiseled 