When weight loss 'solutions' are really part of the problem, it's time for radical change - let go of 'Thinsanity' and get ready to say goodbye to dieting forever!

We caught up with Weight Management psychologist and author Glenn Mackintosh about his book, ‘Thinsanity’. His book takes you on a journey of self discovery, learning how to change our own thoughts and mindset in relation to loving your body healthily. 

From learning to love yourself from the inside out, to making peace with your mind, there were so many important topics discussed with Glenn. We want to take you through some of our key learnings from our discussion with Glenn. 

There is no one size fits all solution to body confidence. For years we have been conditioned into believing that happiness can only be achieved when we reach societies ‘ideal’ standards. We have been taught that weight loss is the solution to happiness and that our problems will disappear once we reach our weight loss goals. 

Glenn proposes that we need to play an entirely new game. Don’t try to win at the weight loss game, play the game where happiness comes in all shapes and sizes. Start to look at things objectively. Habits are much greater indicators of health than your body weight. 

For instance, walking your dog has more benefits than just losing weight. It’s a chance to clear your mind, spend time with something you love and nourish your soul. Don’t do it because you want to lose weight, do it because you want to be the best version of yourself.

Ask yourself, what is your definition of love? Acceptance, trust, loyalty, nurture, and to love unconditionally were key themes brought up in the live with Glenn.

When we love something or someone, they often may have some flaws but we choose to love them unconditionally. Most of the time we don't even notice their flaws at all. It’s like your favourite pair of shoes. They’ve probably seen better days, they might have a few stains, maybe they even gave you a blister! But we love them regardless. They took us on a memorable journey and helped us accomplish our goals.

So what if we loved ourselves like we love others? What if we accepted and nurtured ourselves in that same way? You are worthy of the love you give out to others. You are worthy to take care of yourself. If we change our perspective and change our mindsets, we can learn to love ourselves from the inside out.

Glenn taught us that it is okay to have those critical thoughts. It’s okay to have those moments where you’re a little harder on yourself. After all, we’re only human. Instead of sitting on these thoughts and allowing them to dictate your decisions, Glenn suggests acknowledging them and just moving on. Use mindfulness to acknowledge that it’s not you speaking, it’s just a thought! 

These are just some of the many topics discussed with Glenn. If you haven’t already, watch our discussion with Glenn Mackintosh and tell us what your key thoughts are. We would love to know what you have learnt and how you’re going to implement these changes to become the happiest version of yourself! Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.