ADDRESSING MY WEIGHT GAIN | fitness, food and body image in your 30s

[@sarahjanemurphy5509]

As someone who is older my advice is try to not overthink about your weight youre a young women newly married and look beautiful...be kind to yourself in 25 years time you would give anything to look like you do today

[@shannong7556]

I am 67 and so many times I look back at pictures and have to admit I looked really good in them but at the time I would have sworn that I did not 😞

[@jemburton939]

Wise advice ❤

[@MadeleineOlivia]

Very wise advice! Looking back I am shocked at the body dysmorphia I had at different times of my life.

[@MagisterialVoyager]

Thank you so much for this. I lived with my 83 years old landlord a couple of years ago. He said that he'd give a lot to be on his 30's again and can just go swim in the sea if he wanted to - and do more active things, even though he can climb the roof just fine to fix it. What a lovely reminder to be kinder to myself and my body today.

[@Retro-love-]

I absolutely agree. I’m older too and it’s the same for me. We waste so much energy when we’re younger thinking we don’t look good enough. It’s such a waste of life and once we’re older we know we looked perfectly ok. Just trying to live well is the key and moderation of course

[@fallishlittlefawn9695]

I really hate that people comment on other peoples weight or that it’s something that is so magnified as a woman. Men can generally be any weight and most people don’t care. It is such a hard thing as a woman to not let it make you insecure. I also relate with literally all of what you said. I’ve never heard anyone else do the extreme health things when feeling unwell.

[@MadeleineOlivia]

Agreed. As women we really are scrutinised on another level for every single thing about our being!

[@Retro-love-]

Yes I agree. Why do people think they have the right. It’s mind blowing. Even to say “ you look so good have you lost weight “ is an insult and non of their business. It implies we didn’t look good before

[@fallishlittlefawn9695]

@@Retro-love- I agree. A simple you look as beautiful as ever! Is more than enough of a compliment if you feel the need to compliment lol

[@davidshepard-alenko4232]

it really isn't true. it really isn't. men hear comments about our bodies all the time. I'm so tired of hearing people downplay men's body image issues it's disgusting. what you are saying about women's experience is true and valid. do not try to diminish men's struggles to make your point.

[@AysKuz]

Thank you for being honest and vulnerable. I am also a comfort eater and I know where you are coming from. I can´t stand people who feel the need to comment on other people´s weight - none of your business really! I forgot who said it but I read somewhere "Just imagine all women were happy with their body - a whole industry would go bancrupt."

[@MadeleineOlivia]

I think the world would be a better place if we stopped commenting on each other’s weight. No good ever comes of it.

[@maja_sukara]

I‘ve said it before and I will say it again You are genuinely a wonderful person. The way you address these sensitive subjects without being judgmental and also not trying to please anyone in particular is just an art and amazing. It speaks of your connection to your heart ❤️

[@MadeleineOlivia]

This is so kind thank you ❤️❤️❤️

[@threadwinners]

Giving up alcohol last year has been one of the best decisions I’ve made for my life. I can’t recommend it enough!

[@NINANANANANA100]

I think I have never commented on a YT video before (one of your silent supporters

[@hannahx212]

Part of intuitive eating IS gentle nutrition, the intersection between physical health/nutrition knowledge and our body wants/needs. It's not about perfection or eating whatever whenever you like, it's about balancing our primal desires with what keeps us full and satiated. Sounds like you are practicing IE! :)

[@MadeleineOlivia]

This is a really useful insight thank you!

[@kayw3906]

We don't watch you for your perfection, we watch you because you are charming and normal just like the rest of us. I don't know if you will read this but you don't need to be perfect, none of us are perfect and that is what makes us human and that's ok!

[@emmajanedriver7201]

This was so refreshing to watch! As a 28 year old woman, I often find myself pining over how I looked when I was 21 (I was 4 dress sizes smaller than I am now) and I’ve learnt over the last 6 months I am never going to naturally look like that again and that’s okay! My career has changed, my eating habits are now much healthier and I’m happier and more secure in my life so I can’t complain. I’m a grown woman, why would I want to look like a child? This body has got me through so much and I should look after it and treat it with the love it deserves. That’s not to say I don’t have poor body image days and wish I could be a size 4/6 again but also that wasn’t healthy, sustainable or enjoyable… I’d much rather enjoy a chocolate brownie and eat my meal prepped roast veggie salad for lunch than half a bagel thin with cucumber😂

[@debrawhobrey1625]

Thanks for being honest on this subject. It's more important to be healthy, than skinny.

[@MadeleineOlivia]

100%! Health does not always show up in how much you weigh!

[@hazelrogers2455]

I’ve just hit my 60th milestone and having long covid symptoms I was sent 2 years ago to a NHS get fit instructor and so now go to the gym once a week for cardio and strength exercises and a cardio and balance class once a week . I complained the other week to him that I was putting on weight despite eating better than I have since my childhood . He informed me that I was putting on muscle 😂 which I had not even considered it . I’m seriously considering now about trying the couch to 5k . You are one of the most honest you tubers out there and I really appreciate this platform you are now vlogging

[@thekosylife]

The older I get, the less I care about my weight. Not in the sense that I overeat and do not exercise, I like eating healthy and I want to make sure my body stays fit so that I can live without any physical restrictions. But I care less and less what people think about how I look, I realize now that my weight is not connected to my worth as a person overall. Thanks for sharing your struggles and experiences with us, it's so good to know I'm not the only one ❤

[@kaltespopcorn4087]

I once heard for the times of huge stress: “Fed is best”. And that really gave me some self compassion for when I struggle. It helps me to stop overthinking my food choices and give myself permission to eat what is easiest/available in the moment. I would also agree with Maddie that it is a good way to look for the big food groups in a meal. Everything else can be dealt with when one has the capacity.

[@lauraharris43]

Thank you for speaking openly about your journey. I’m sorry someone has commented on your weight, it’s just not on. When will people learn?! 💕

[@zanna186]

I'm really glad to hear you say that it's normal for all of us to sometimes fall off our fitness routines. Sometimes things happen. We go through times of physical, emotional or mental stress, and we just need to take a break, because it's too many things to juggle. But if we're kind to ourselves and understand that this is normal, we can have an easier time getting back into it when we're ready. I'm currently going through one of those fallow periods right now. I was doing really well with my fitness routine leading up to and during the holidays, but then my 14-year-old cat became sick in January. For weeks we tried everything to get her well again. Exercise was the last thing on my mind. Then we found out she was dying, and there was nothing we could really do. The next several weeks were spent making her as comfortable as possible, spending time with her, and waiting for the time when we would have to let her go. Then there was a period of grieving when she finally passed. Now we have two new cats, and I've been trying to get back into my fitness routine, but it's been slow and inconsistent so far. The new cats have very different personalities, prefer a very different routine, and have a lot more energy than my old cat had. We're still getting to know them, and figuring out the minor adjustments we need to make. I've had other breaks from exercising before, some longer, some shorter, but I usually get back into it eventually, and I've learned not to beat myself up about it. It's good to hear that I'm not the only one who goes through this.

[@missykemp3957]

Your graciousness and transparency, even when responding to an inappropriate observation on your own body, are inspiring. I have struggled with weight and body image since adolescence, and now I am 52. I am trying to teach myself to observe things about my body that are unrelated to appearance: noticing how strong my legs feel in Warrior pose, or how quickly I pop up the stairs, or how wonderful a long walk feels, and a cool shower afterward. I am far kinder to my friends than I am to myself. Thank you for being willing to have these hard conversations. ❤

[@LeonaMcLinden]

Maddie, we all struggle. You are honest with yourself and as you age your struggles will change again. You are more than your weight. Love watching you ❤

[@chillyb3an]

This is so much easier said than done including the acceptance part at the end. “I’m normal.” “Sometimes I drink too much wine” “sometimes I don’t feel confident the way I look” all of these I’m struggling with after having recently lost 15 lbs. the body dysmorphia is baaaaaad from day to day. Sometimes I feel really confident and the next day I feel bad about myself. This video is something I really needed today. It’s important to be healthy and all that matters is that your choices are benefitting your overall health not your weight or your vanity.

[@stayhappylittlemermaid]

Don't make things too complicated. Try to relax, enjoy every moment, get used to everything.

[@mandyhackman9740]

thank you for being so honest and vulnerable on here- that’s super f*cking hard to do and it’s also really a service for all of us out here mucking through these things (hopefully together)

[@MarieLifeInWords]

Maddie truly thank you, I find it so hard without being on KZbin. I still haven't got it worked out and I am 47, but it is wonderful to hear how you are navigating health and fitness, I hope to find balance too❤

[@jennacutts6788]

I think you’re really brave to address this so openly. I completely agree with throwing away the scales. I haven’t weighed myself in many years and I choose to focus on being as healthy as I can be. I’m a lot happier for it. Keep up the amazing work. You also look gorgeous as you are!

[@marykelley782]

That morning walk... beautiful scenery! Love the foxgloves. Reminds me of my favorite books as a child ! (Peter Rabbit ❤) Roxy is adorable.Srength training so good for you. I need to get back into it. You are so right about priorities and pauses in working out. It is hard with our busy schedules. I think I may start back w yoga, build from there.Dont forget walking is indeed exercise too!!

[@Sarah-LN]

This video really did connect to me! Im 30, have slowly gained a small amount of weight over the last few years and ive never managed to have any consistency with exercise.. your monologue at the end "of course I'd love to look like I did at 26, but at what cost?..... And what would be the benefit?" Wow, thats powerful! Thankyou for this honest and open video ❤️

[@MagisterialVoyager]

I’m turning 32 this year. I so relate with the weight gain and all. But I’m building a healthy lifestyle, not trying to look good all the time so people will like me. It’s more important to me to be deliberate.

[@fayedanthony4783]

The vlog today took courage and it will definitely help someone Now I’m gonna tell you something, it is possible to have everything but not all at once. Somedays you get to everybody and everything and somedays you don’t and both days are OK.❤❤

[@heatherdalton4725]

thank you, I've been struggling to keep up with my usual work out routine due to a busy summer schedule, and now I feel way more motivated to just be flexible and work around it rather than sticking to a rigid schedule

[@mansoor3159]

I love love lovee your consistency with making vlogs!!!Keep going we love you Madeleine🥹💗✨

[@mellow_move]

Have you ever looked into the connection between anxiety and consuming alcohol (& caffeine). It’s a huge part of the reason why I gave up both and my mental health has improved tremendously!

[@MadeleineOlivia]

Yes! I was sober for three years or so for this reason!

[@Sue-np9fp]

Your honesty, and vulnerability will give strength to others-and hopefully continue to empower your own self-knowledge. I'd rather listen to your message about being a healthy Vegan, than a skinny one (osteoporosis is a real issue for women esp. with eating disorders), and you are using your platform responsibly, Maddie, in highlighting this! love sue xxx

[@laraB2237]

Love That "Adopt A Dog". Thank you and your kind heart for telling people how important that is❤

[@meganjoy9225]

You are doing so well. I’m in my 40’s and trying so hard to learn that exercise and nutrition is not about being skinny but about health. I’m getting there! I have two daughters to model a healthier way of thinking to.

[@florencegaye1391]

Such sound advice about getting rid of the scales, Madaleine. They can be helpful for tracking weight loss progress or in monitoring one's weight, but only if body image issues and eating disorders are not involved. I do have a history of anorexica, binge-eating, and orthorexia, and I never weigh myself anymore, I haven't done so for many years. No matter what they showed me, I was left striving for "better" or filled with self-loathing. It's a number, it means nothing, we're all different . I'm so glad you touched on this, and I have a lot of admiration for you being so candid. PS- your husband is so, so lovely with your animals, he's always so affectionate with them, and its lovely to see.

[@SR-ql9he]

You could just drink non-alcoholic beverages in a social setting, though. There are so many wine and beer alternatives etc. and from what you described, your alcohol relationship doesn't sound that healthy. Also, one question in a "Am I addicted" self-assessment test from the American Addiction Centers is literally "Does your loved one often use alcohol in larger amounts or over a longer period of time than they intended?" But even apart from that, alcohol only messes with your health. I've been avoiding it for years for hormonal reasons and I really can't see myself ever going back to consuming alcohol.

[@kkuhn3]

Thank you for sharing. I've been struggling with intuitive eating recently, and it's encouraging to learn that I'm not the only one. My binge eating has drastically improved since learning about it, but restriction isn't just a product of dieting. Restriction for me comes from my financial situation. I overeat certain things that I really like because idk when I'll be able to afford them again. Intuitive eating is a great framework overall, but it assumes a certain amount of privilege. Also, I've weight cycled since I was teen, and it's cathartic to hear someone accept it.

[@lucylucraftpodcasts]

I've followed you since you lived in Brighton (when I was a vegan too) and have genuinely loved following you over the years. You're so authentic and real and vulnerable (not that you owe us that!) and I've found you to be one of the most healing content creators to watch xx

[@carolinaferreyro2745]

Thank you for being so honest and open :) I'm so glad to be able to listen and follow you!

[@AlisonGreenValleyCrone]

Bravo for your honesty. Lovely to see a young woman talking so clearly about the struggles that so many struggle with these days

[@jessican5537]

Your candidness is what keeps me coming back to your videos. Thank you for being relatable

[@louisabreakell2383]

Thank you for being so open and honest, it’s so helpful knowing these mental cycles are a shared experience xxx

[@theunicornrainbow363]

This was such a sweet video. Thanks for your honesty. I never thought I would be at the place I am now with my bodyimage. Since becoming a mum I just have different priorities I know my body created my perfect son and I simply don't have the time to overthink my food. I wish you can experience this change as well at some point. ❤ All the best.

[@goodmornindreamer]

Loved these conversations. I'm 28 and have always been insecure about my body because of the comments made by others. My weight has always fluctuated because of stress, diet, level of activity in my daily life etc. But at this stage of my life I've been much more aware of the differences in my body especially if I haven't gotten as much movement lately. I really appreciate these ways of thinking and focusing on your health and not the weight that has been gained. ❤

[@Kaycee973]

You are probably the most realistic person I follow, and I really appreciate that about you. You do help me feel less like I’m abnormal or a failure when it comes to being consistent. So thank you!

[@kathia.4640]

I adore your honesty and am so grateful for your videos

[@MadeleineOlivia]

You are so welcome 🤗

[@Raddiebaddie]

Lovvvving the vibe of the channel

[@MissSeaworld8]

"All three of them?" "Yeah!" 😂Haha that's love right there 😅

[@miriamslack4086]

Just a fan...genuine fan...would like to think if I lived down the lane we might cross paths...either way, you are just lovely Maddie; inside and out. I truly understand struggling but my hope for you is that deep down, you know your worth is far above rubies...you are beautiful.

[@SimpleScottishLiving]

I’ve struggled with similar thoughts/issues. It’s funny, since having 3 kids and being arguably the least “in shape” in my entire life, I am the most confident and happy now! It sounds like you are in a much healthier head space and are learning your specific boundaries. ❤ Thank you for your willingness to open up about a difficult subject.

[@whitneywarrior4508]

Maddie, I bought the chocolate dipped almonds today, OH MY GOD, thank you so much for mentioning them, game changer 👌

[@irismeeow]

i think the way you do intuitive eating is totally valid. you eat what you want and then you add to it for more protein etc. but i totally understand what you're saying and maybe not identifying with it that much anymore. for me it's also about when i eat and how much i eat. i'm listening more to my body to see when i'm actually hungry and when i'm full. maybe intentional eating is the better term :)

[@hayeskh]

Maddie, I have enjoyed your videos for years- not only because of your authenticity….You have wonderful animals, (we have too many rescues) a garden that gets out of control at times (like mine- it’s a lot of work!), you do wonderful inspiring cooking, workout, lifestyle, mental/physical health, home renovations, decorating videos and on such a consistent basis… I am in total Awe of you and all of your positive energy. Keep on Keeping on. You are simply an inspiration. Thank you for all you do. Love you and your family ❤

[@forest-fairies]

It’s refreshing to have an honest outlook like this! Weight fluctuation is normal and healthy, we all have our strengths and pinch points when it comes to our health and wellbeing. What matters is sharing a realistic account of what it’s like to be trying our best for ourselves and the planet day in day out, even when things aren’t “perfect” (whatever perfect even means!). Cheers! ❤

[@sammyorlans1345]

🌷 stay who you are , your doing a great job love your content 💫

[@MadeleineOlivia]

Thank you 💖

[@YogaZenDenwithAJ]

Love this video Madeline ❤❤❤ it’s so refreshing to hear about being realistic, authentic, loving your body, nurturing and giving the nourishment it needs to maintain good health 🎉

[@sophiesophster]

Thanks so much for this maddy! I’m giving the trainwell free trial a go! I’ve just turned 30 and have a very similar outside to exercise/health/“weight loss” as you!

[@mandyhackman9740]

As someone who has also struggled with ED and has active mental health stuff, what you’re describing around intuitive eating actually sounds like what the practice of intuitive eating calls gentle nutrition- which is an accepted part of the process that’s just a later step along the line, once you’ve done some of the detangling that needs to come before being able to work with that in a gentle-to-yourself way (it sounds like you’ve gotten there which is so cool). It’s not either/or- that’s the whole point of intuitive eating! I think the social media version gets flattened out and made into a prescriptive, perfectionist thing but intuitive eating itself is a set of 10 or so principles that are meant to be practiced messily and ideally with some external support and with lots of gentleness. A lot like exercise really. I’m a personal trainer and an intuitive movement coach, and I tell people how to do the physical skills we’re doing and suggest rep ranges and remind them to include rest and cool down and stuff they don’t remember on their own. You might not intuitively remember to stretch in the moment but enough days of feeling sore and crappy and you’ll start to include it whether you feel like stretching or not- and that’s intuitive too. No need to call it intuitive if that language no longer serves, but just adding the nuance here that the actual in-practice version of intuitive eating would agree with everything you’re saying ;)

[@momentmemos]

Absolutely loved how you explained intuitive eating. I have the same background as you with food and eating intuitively is more tricky than it sounds. You worded this so well🩷

[@carolegable4017]

I'm like your mother's age and have had my ups and downs with weight and view of exercise. Suddenly it clicked with me and my attitude toward exercise changed. I do it purely for enjoyment. If you find an exercise that you really love that makes you feel good, you will be consistent. I've found that not only have I become physically fitter, but my mood has stabilized and i feel better about myself. The other point is to adjust the exercise to your condition for each day.

[@LinaCaicedoOspina]

Hello Madi! Thank you so much for your honesty...I was listening to you and wishing that I will hear you on my teen days. I struggled so much with food and body image. I am too, decided to stop dieting on my twenties. On my thirties and wishing to be pregnant and establish healthy eating habits before my son was born change my mindset. I wanted to be healthy, I wanted to take care of me....On that path I fell in love with cooking...for me it is an act of self love. My son says that is one of my ways to tell him that I love him, in fact, it is. You have been a wonderful resource on my kitchen Madi...and my younger self....that continues to heal....loves your sharing. THANK YOU SO MUCH. At the same, feel free to not share if you do not want, take care of you...there is a lot of people on social network that let their pain speaks without any filter. A huge hug from Spain. By the way ....your house is gorgeous ❤

[@ffiontill5924]

I honestly hadn’t noticed your weight gain. Not that weight matters but from your recent videos I noticed you seem more content and happy enjoying life and all your amazing well deserved success with the cookbook and everything❤

[@luciamariarossi4120]

Aside people from commenting on others' weight, what I would like is for people to stop acting surprised that our weight changes at different points in our lives. For as much as we all may wish to keep a stable weight, looking at myself and all other women in my life I came to realize that body weight does indeed fluctuates for most of us. Life is unpredictable and exposes us to lots of change and stressors which inevitably affect us. And then there are physical and hormonal changes as we grow and age. The absurdity of expecting us to have the same size as when we were 18 is only made worse by the fact that as women we buy into this expectations that we stay smaller all of our lives. Thanks for your wisdom in addressing this topic.

[@lori6154]

This is such a good tip! I myself struggle with being active because with every sport I always think about if it’s the right thing for loosing weight or getting this or that toned and then I end up with sports I don’t like. I for example hate weight lifting and running but for a long time I convinced myself, that this is the sport I should do because of body expectations and then end up not doing it at all. Instead I now try to do activities that I like and try not to think about if it’s the most effective. But it’s a long way to go 😅

[@violetdaniels6466]

Pleaae consider making a podcast, I could listen to you talk all day!

[@catherinepatterson4720]

Thank you for this video topic on body image. I’m middle aged and one thing I have noticed is my mother’s body image. She would deny this, but I believe she had an eating disorder in her life. She had a critical mother. She appears, even to this day, to control what she eats. A fussy eater. I just wonder if she controlled the amount we (my siblings and I) ate growing up. I could write a lot more on this topic, but will leave it here. I was wondering if you have thought of ‘interviewing’ your mother, sister, your aunts/mother’s sisters and even your mother’s mother about their body image or issues around weight. My mother’s mother (my nana) was always aware of her weight as are both my sisters. Anyway, it might be interesting to know about their thoughts. I think I have struggled with body image as a result of my family history (the maternal line). As always, I enjoy your videos. I like how you are real/authentic. I’m not vegan. I have an eclectic diet (a bit of each, vegan, vegetarian and meat). I do own your cookbook : ) Look forward to your next video. Have a great week 😊

[@thesimplegospel3529]

Thank you for sharing so honestly. It was really interesting and I think your self-acceptance is very healthy and an inspiring example.

[@carolinecoffey5404]

You look fab don’t worry and let it get you down, your fit and healthy ❤

[@MadeleineOlivia]

💖💖💖

[@libbyloulabelle]

All of your videos are great, but I particularly loved this one and the message you are sending. So important! Also it is never ok to comment on someone’s weight and says way more about the person saying it.

[@jasminush]

Very good point about not focusing on weight loss, what I would add as a former profession sportswoman (and my father approves the message since he is also a former athlethe) is to adjust your diet. I am not speaking about a specific diet but to eat more easy and light meals as you take breaks from working out. Having the same diet regardless of the daily effort will not help very much. Just a thought. For whoever is concerned😅😊

[@Retro-love-]

Maddie you ARE the pinnacle of veganism as your cooking and you are real. Your meals are delicious and not only good for us but comforting and easy. The reality is women fluctuate in life naturally unless you are born with super skinny genes which is very few of us. Add to that babies, illness, medications, menopause and peri menopause and just basically our bodies change way way more than men because as females that’s just what happens. The best we can do for ourselves is eat the way you do and have shown us to and move our bodies every day ❤

[@WanderingCentrist]

Very healthy and understandable take on body image and food! I love your honesty. :)

[@susan1380]

Thank you for sharing - that was one of your best talks and has helped me understand some things for the better of myself as i have struggled with eating disorders and have had dealt with like you too anxiety and depression in the past. This was perfect timing or me to hear.....

[@CC-cf4zm]

I loved seeing the workout! it gave me more comfort to be in the weights section with men there as well!

[@erinland-wd9zv]

i've been following you for years now, and i look up to you so much. this video came at the perfect time for me--thank you so much for posting it and being so honest. this gave me so much comfort and reassurance in a really turbulent time you are truly amazing and such an incredible role model and human being. thank you for all that you do

[@bonniewoodard2771]

Hi Madeleine! I enjoyed your video very much.... have also had the same food struggles and found your thoughts around all of the issues very helpful! Tk You !!

[@rebeccagreen692]

I'm okay with getting my steps in, but I want to start lifting or using the resistance bands I bought a couple of months ago! I think you are doing well anyway. It is real life😊

[@Reader643]

You're beautiful! As I age I (mostly) recognize the beauty in myself more and more and the beauty in other women and people too. I have had to spend some time un-learning unhealthy attitudes, perceptions, and expectations around body and beauty, but it's been worth the effort!

[@AlisonGreenValleyCrone]

I’m with you about the days after a holiday. I remember driving off a ferry and dropping my husband at work on the way home! I always like to plan to be home on a Friday so that I have a weekend to reground

[@nandinos]

Thank you for sharing, Maddie. You focus on yourself and your mental health, your physical health will follow with that. I think the important thing is to just build strength and keep up on your nutritional needs so that in the later years of your life, your body is able to support you in living life to the fullest. Enjoy your walks and taking things slow when you can 💚

[@sandragoss62]

Madeleine we are much more than the space we take up in the world ❤

[@emilygnatt3457]

Yes throw out your scales! And you can ask to not see or hear your weight when you go to the doctor. You can even ask for this during pregnancy- I have no idea how much I gained or lost throughout pregnancy and it was so good for my brain.

[@annehinchliffe7794]

Excellent honest advice, something we need to think about no matter what age we are.

[@kecrn4132]

You are an incredible, inspirational young woman, Maddie. I so appreciate you and your vulnerability and honesty about these difficult topics. Was very upsetting to hear that people comment online comment on your weight tho…. I just don’t get why people do that- and how people notice these little changes!!! My lord! I like to pay attention to what you are saying, doing, cooking etc…. I do not pay any attention to your body because it’s so not important! It’s all the other things that are important! Thank you so much for this video, especially!❤❤❤❤

[@sharonpott4253]

I think coming from someone older there is more important things than keep obsessing about your body just live your life ❤

[@susi131]

I have had to force myself through my whole 20s to go to the gym and go for runs because I knew it was good for my mental and physical health but I never actually enjoyed doing the sports themselves. I am now in my early 30s and I hardly ever go to the gym or running anymore. Instead I started road cycling and pole dance which are two things that I really enjoy doing. I am looking forward to my pole classes every week and I get upset when the weather is bad so I cannot go out cycling. It never feels like something I have force myself to do. And then I also sometimes throw in things like swimming or climbing and an occasional yoga class but only when I feel like it. I have never been as fit as I am now and I am enjoying what I'm doing. I would really recommend finding something that is a hobby more than a chore.

[@joanneniven342]

Keep being you. I love your realness. Your happiness and well-being is the most important thing. Big hugs ❤😊

[@jessicabowen4818]

Don't stress about the weight u can change that ❤🎉 just be happy 🎉❤

[@natm3134]

I love it when you do videos like this. Find it super helpful, reassuring and inspiring x

[@helenalexander2567]

Madeleine so honest, so real, so relatable x Thank you x You truly are amazing xxxx

[@MeNthe50s]

Well said! Love your honesty, your work on your beautiful home and the beautiful scenery. I will have to personally see England someday.

[@paularyan8400]

Thank you for such a wonderful video message. Your openness is so truly refreshing and you are sooo relatable. ❤️‍🩹❤️

[@christinac.2477]

I'm really enjoying dr gregger's book How not to diet. Very interesting and informative. I agree i like eating with education and knowledge about what I'm consuming and trying to avoid crossing that line with agoraphobia.

[@outdoorsincornwall2060]

Well said @madeleine! So much self-awareness, good sense and great advice. Hope people find it useful

[@charlenewagoner9523]

You’re beautiful the way you are!! It doesn’t matter what people say.. let it roll right off your shoulders..

[@jojo33jw]

Your appearance is the least important thing about you, you have all these followers because your a beautiful person inside, you so inspiring and have helped me and so many others with their vegan lifestyle ❤

[@bonnieolson80]

It seems you are correct regarding weight loss and exercise, because I might be wrong, but it seems to me that well developed muscles would be heavier than undeveloped muscles. In my opinion exercise improves your appearance and your health but doesn’t necessarily mean weight loss.❤️

[@lizg1976]

I think you look fabulous. I found that doing workouts at home was easier than going to a gym. I do Madfit and other KZbin workouts and I love that. Easy to get the equipment and it takes less time than traveling to and from the gym.

[@karin9373]

Such a lovely walk in the beginning. Made me relax just watching it 😀 I definitely agree re the gym. I feel so much better when I exercise, I prefer body con classes to working out on my own. Makes me feel really energised afterwards. The last two weeks I had such a frantic time with work and stuff and I was only able to go once or twice. Definitely affected my mood in a negative way. So yes, exercising just makes you feel better. Thanks for sharing so many useful thoughts 😘

[@meeralakshmanan7190]

I've been training since the pandemic with MadFit on KZbin (and the MadFit app since November of last year) and I love it!! I'm glad that you found something that you like too ❣️!! Could you please do more videos like this for inspiration 😉!!

[@Kx____]

Hi Maddie, I am around the same age (turning 34 this year) and have struggled a lot with weight, EDs, bad BD etc. i can relate a lot to your last section. It's a struggle. I have been in therapy for almost 10 years now, which has helped loads. Just like you, I have the tools now, but that doesn't mean the thoughts and feelings are not there anymore. I have now learned to accept and understand them better and also how to deal with them. Of course it is still very difficult and I have to keep showing up for myself. My question to you about the scale and throwing them out: don't you feel like in a way it has more power over you now? Because it's power was so strong that you had to get rid of it? I have learned to slowly stop stepping on that thing a lot, now I often don't step on it for at least half a year. I have some health issues so the only reason I am stepping on it is because the hospital needs information about weight gain/loss/maintaining. To me that is very freeing that I can keep it in the house without getting obsessive about it, it now no longer holds the power it used to have. I am interested to hear your take on this. If you were to get one in your house again, wouldn't it have a lot of power over you again? Wouldn't it be better to slowly learn to take it's power away? I am not judging you, just wondering about it. Thank you Maddie.

[@elainecross4548]

Thank you for your honesty and just keep being you - you are lovely as you are! 🥰