Natasha Golijan's story is a powerful testament to the transformative power of self-love and a holistic approach to wellness. In early 2024, she found herself grappling with a body and mind she barely recognized. The Sydney-based fitness trainer, once a beacon of health and vitality, was struggling under the weight of nearly 20 stone (approximately 280 pounds) and a cloud of depression.
Daily life had become an overwhelming challenge. Natasha's relationship with food was a constant battle, a pendulum swinging between periods of overeating and restrictive crash diets. This unhealthy cycle not only impacted her physical health but also took a heavy toll on her mental well-being.
The turning point came when she faced cruel remarks about her weight. "At that time, I was overweight, and someone called me a whale," Natasha recounted. "They told people not to take advice from me, saying I needed to take my own advice." These words, spoken with such malice, cut deep and exacerbated her already fragile mental state.
Behind the facade, Natasha was battling severe depression and even suicidal thoughts. The weight of her emotional struggles was invisible to those around her, making the journey even more isolating and difficult. "People didn’t know what I was going through behind the scenes," she explained, highlighting the importance of understanding that appearances can be deceiving.
One day, while looking in the mirror, Natasha had a profound realization. She knew that she needed to make a change, not just for her physical health but for her overall well-being. It was a moment of clarity, a spark of self-worth that ignited a determination to reclaim her life.
"I reminded myself that I deserved more than what I had been through," she explained. This simple yet powerful affirmation became her mantra, guiding her through the difficult path ahead. It was a commitment to herself, a promise to prioritize her well-being and break free from the destructive patterns that had held her captive.
This time, Natasha decided to approach her weight loss journey with a different mindset. She abandoned the extreme diets and punishing workouts that had characterized her past attempts. Instead, she focused on creating a sustainable and healthy lifestyle.
"I avoided extremes," she said. "I ate whole, nourishing foods, and I moved in ways that felt good instead of punishing." This holistic approach, prioritizing nourishment and enjoyment over deprivation and pain, proved to be the key to her success.
As Natasha consistently made healthy choices, the weight began to shift. Over the course of 12 months, she lost an incredible 8 stone (52kg/112lbs), dropping from 19st 12lbs (126.7kg) to just under 12st (75.7kg). This transformation was not just about the numbers on the scale; it was about reclaiming her health, her confidence, and her life.
Even after achieving such an incredible transformation, Natasha still faced criticism. "At first, I was mocked for being an overweight trainer," she said. "Then, once I lost the weight, people started calling me too skinny. I’ve just learned to brush it off with a smile." Her ability to rise above the negativity and focus on her own well-being is a testament to her strength and resilience.
Natasha acknowledges that the journey was not easy, but she remained steadfast in her commitment. "I never wanted to quit," she said. Her unwavering determination, fueled by self-love and a desire for a better life, propelled her forward through the challenges.
In the end, Natasha not only lost weight but also rediscovered a brand new version of herself. "I did it for the woman I saw in the mirror," she explained. Her journey is a powerful reminder that true transformation comes from within, driven by a desire to love and care for oneself.
The significant weight loss did leave Natasha with loose skin, but she refused to let it define her. Instead of viewing it as a flaw, she embraced it as a reminder of her incredible journey and the strength she had shown.
To address the loose skin, Natasha has undergone several skin-tightening sessions. She is also open to the possibility of surgery in the future, particularly if she decides to compete in bodybuilding. This proactive approach demonstrates her commitment to feeling confident and comfortable in her own skin.
"Beauty comes in all forms, and we are all unique," she said. "For now, you need to love yourself every step of the way." This message of self-acceptance and body positivity is a cornerstone of her philosophy and a message she passionately shares with others.
Natasha's transformation has also profoundly reshaped her career. She now coaches women around the world through online programs, empowering them to achieve their own health and wellness goals. Her experience and genuine passion for helping others make her a highly sought-after coach.
She has also authored her first ebook, sharing her story, insights, and practical tips for achieving sustainable weight loss and a healthy lifestyle. This book serves as a valuable resource for anyone seeking to transform their own life.
Despite her success, some people have attributed her weight loss to quick fixes like fat-loss injections. Natasha is quick to dispel these rumors. "Some people assumed my weight loss was from fat-loss injections. It wasn’t," she clarified.
"It was intentional food choices and lifestyle changes," she emphasized, underscoring the importance of making sustainable, healthy choices rather than relying on temporary solutions. Her journey is a testament to the power of hard work, dedication, and a holistic approach to wellness.
Now, Natasha is dedicated to inspiring others to believe that change is possible. She uses her platform to share her story, offer guidance, and empower individuals to take control of their health and well-being.
"No matter where you’re starting from, you can rewrite your story," she said. This message of hope and empowerment is at the heart of her mission, encouraging people to embrace their potential and create a life they love.
Inspired by Natasha's journey? The NHS (National Health Service) in the UK offers a comprehensive 12-step plan to help you lose weight in a healthy and sustainable way. This plan focuses on evidence-based strategies and emphasizes long-term lifestyle changes rather than quick fixes.