1. Weight loss gives “deeper experiences”
She avoided some restaurants, didn’t dare ride roller coasters and didn’t travel by plane because the seats were too small. These restrictions prevented her from enjoying life to the fullest. Now, with a healthier body, she enjoys more freedom and satisfaction. She can choose what to do, rather than making those decisions on behalf of her body size and limited stamina.
“My life is so much better now, not because I’m closer to society’s ideal of beauty, but because I have so many things that really matter — fuller experiences, richer relationships, new opportunities, more energy, and more stamina,” Mancuso says. More strength, more self-confidence, more joy, more life.”
2. Physical and mental health are linked to each other
Before Mancuso began her weight-loss journey, she never thought about how all aspects of health were connected. She neglected her physical health and told herself it didn’t matter as long as she took care of her mental and emotional health. It was only after she started working on her physical health that she realized how different areas of life affect each other.
“I neglected my physical health for a long time and made excuses that it wasn’t that bad because at least I was taking care of my mental and emotional health,” she says. “But I didn’t realize how different areas of life feed into each other until I started making an effort to get healthy.”
By developing a healthier lifestyle, she also improved her mental and emotional health. It’s known that being active can improve mental health, but Mancuso found that her lifestyle changes also led to better social relationships and more fulfilling opportunities.
Leah Mancuso’s story shows that sustainable weight loss is not just about physical changes, but also about improving overall quality of life. Her classes emphasize the importance of adopting an active lifestyle and understanding the deep connection between physical and mental health. By making these changes, individuals can not only lose weight, but they can also live a richer, more fulfilling life.
