Weight off your mind
Lose pounds to lose worries Sinead hated having her picture taken
Around 45 per cent of Lanarkshire residents who are unhappy with their weight say worries about social media photos spoil special occasions.
That’s according to Carfin slimming expert, Rachel McMahon, who says anyone who is uncomfortable about their weight needn’t miss out on living the life they want to after new research found that the fear of being tagged in unflattering social media photos can ruin celebrations.
The study, conducted by Slimming World, found nights out with friends, weddings and trips to the beach are the most commonly spoiled occasions because of social media photo fears.
Rachel says that while social media can be a source of worry for many, it can also be an inspiration for people on a weight loss programme.
The research shows that seven in 10 slimmers are inspired by social media on their weight loss journey, with 93 per cent saying the support they get on social media complements the face-to-face support they get from their weight loss group and 87 per cent report that social media actually helped them to lose weight.
S l i m m i n g Wo r l d consultant Rachel, who runs groups each week in Carfin, says: “Having lost 3st myself, I know how not being comfortable with your weight can take over your life. I’ve felt anxious and uneasy when someone has taken out their phone on a night out, I’ve felt uncomfortable getting the camera out on holiday, and I’ve even spent important family occasions worrying about people’s photographs of me appearing online afterwards. . I don’t want anyone in Lanarkshire to feel like they have to miss out on special occasions they might never get back because they’re unhappy with how they look.”
Si n e a d S m i t h, o f Newarthill, has lost 4st since social media inspired her to join Rachel’s Carfin class in October 2016.
She now uses social media to get motivational support, recipe tips and inspiration online.
Sinead said: “Before losing weight I hated seeing photos of myself online. I dreaded every ‘you’ve been tagged in a photo’ notification after a night out or family event.
‘ Thanks to Rachel and my fellow group members, I’m now full of confidence – both in the real world and online! As well as going to group each week, social media now really inspires and encourages me along my journey. I love seeing other people’s peop transformations and andg getting ideas for recipes to try. I am also part of our group’s Facebook page – it means we can support each other in between our weekly meetings. I love seeing everyone else achieve their weight loss dreams just as much as my own.”
Rachel, whose members lost a combined 455st last year, added: “I’d encourage anyone in Newarthill and Carfin to not let social media worries stop them from living their best life, or from achieving their goals and dreams and to instead be confident and proud online. And if their goals include losing weight, they’ll always get a warm welcome from me and the members of my Carfin group.”
To find out more about the Carfin Slimming World group call Rachel on 07812569841 or visit www. slimmingworld.co.uk to find your nearest group.