[sarahinparis]

I've been overweight all my life & dieting for a large portion of it.

I've successfully lost, successfully maintained (at above goal level, but still), regained, re-lost, ... well, you name it, I've done it.

My weight rose again last year before I got back on top of it - in 2009 I lost 30 pounds. I was stable through the holidays & am now back on track.

But for long term success I've realized I need to find a way for it not to be a constant battle, but rather a long term commitment to eating & moving at a level I can sustain & that doesn't stress me out.

I'm interested to know if the idea of pursuing weight loss (or maintenance) while keeping it low stress (free of perfectionism & heavy pressure) is something that others are interested in to - or maybe I'm all alone in this way of thinking?

[midwife]

Welcome Sarah! First, wow, I'm jealous you are in Paris!!! Envy, envy, envy!! Second, there are some folks here at 3FC who are working on Intuitive Eating. There's a thread in Maintainers about Lifestyle Based Maintenance---looking for that balance. I'm sure you'll find a home here. Surf around and post lots.

[Judy Lynn]

Welcome Sarah! I think Maintenance is truly the hardest part. Like you, I have lost weight before, maintained for a while, but eventually ended up regaining. Do check out the Maintainers Forum as Midwife suggested, there are some fabulous Maintainers there.