Breaking Free: How Toxic Relationships Can Affect Your Weight and Health

by | Jan 16, 2025

toxic body storage

Have you ever wondered if the toxic relationships in your life are the reason you’re struggling with your weight? For many, the emotional toll of such relationships doesn’t just affect the heart and mind—it can take a serious toll on the body as well. If you’re turning to food for comfort or finding yourself unable to care for your health, you’re not alone. I’ve been there, and today, I’m sharing my story and a 21-day challenge to help you take the first steps toward healing and self-renewal.

My Story: From Toxic Love to Self-Love

At 21 years old, I escaped a toxic relationship that left me feeling broken and lost. It started as a high school romance. He was my sweetheart, my “forever” … or so I thought. But over time, the cracks began to show. I was in deep trouble and trapped in a cycle of fear and self-doubt.

Breaking free was the hardest thing I’ve ever done, but it was also the most important. However, the scars of that relationship lingered. I turned to food for comfort—sugar, bread, cheese—anything that gave me a fleeting sense of peace. Within a year, I had gained 45 pounds. The self-loathing was unbearable, and I felt trapped in a different kind of cycle—one of emotional eating and shame.

By September of 1990, I hit my breaking point. I decided that enough was enough. I started eating clean, focusing on whole, nourishing foods, and by December, I had got to a healthy weight but also regained a sense of control and hope. This journey was about so much more than weight loss; it was about reclaiming my life.

Now, I want to help you do the same.

The Link Between Toxic Relationships and Weight Gain

Toxic relationships can manifest in physical ways, especially when it comes to weight. Here’s how they’re connected:

1. Emotional Eating: Many people turn to food for comfort when dealing with emotional pain. Foods high in sugar and fat trigger a dopamine release, offering a temporary sense of relief.

2. Stress Hormones: Toxic relationships often lead to chronic stress, which increases cortisol levels. High cortisol can trigger cravings for unhealthy foods and cause the body to store fat, particularly in the abdominal area.

3. Lack of Energy: Emotional exhaustion from toxic relationships can leave you feeling drained and unmotivated to exercise or prepare healthy meals.

4. Negative Self-Talk: A toxic partner or environment often diminishes your self-esteem, leading to feelings of unworthiness that make self-care feel impossible.

5. Isolation: Toxic relationships can isolate you from friends and family, depriving you of the support system needed to make healthy changes.

Recognizing these patterns is the first step toward breaking free and reclaiming your health.

The 21-Day Challenge to Total Self-Renewal

I’ve created a simple, approachable 21-day challenge to help you reset your mind, body, and spirit. Each week builds on the last, guiding you toward greater self-love and healthier habits. Here’s how it works:

Week 1: Building a Foundation of Self-Love

For the first week, focus on creating small, nurturing habits to ground yourself:

  • Day 1: Write down three things you’re grateful for.
  • Day 2: Practice 10 minutes of deep breathing.
  • Day 3: Go on a short walk or do some gentle stretching.
  • Day 4: Hydrate! Aim for at least eight glasses of water.
  • Day 5: Journal about what you want to let go of.
  • Day 6: Enjoy a fresh, balanced meal with lots of veggies.
  • Day 7: Take a 15-minute screen break and do something just for you.

Week 2: Letting Go of Toxins & Emotional Clutter

This week is about releasing what no longer serves you:

  • Day 8: Set an intention to reduce sugar intake.
  • Day 9: Limit or eliminate alcohol for the day.
  • Day 10: Declutter one small space in your home.
  • Day 11: Try a new, healthy recipe with whole foods.
  • Day 12: Start the day with positive affirmations.
  • Day 13: Commit to at least 15 minutes of exercise.
  • Day 14: Reflect on your progress so far.

Week 3: Embracing New Healthy Habits

The final week focuses on creating sustainable habits:

  • Day 15: Drink herbal tea instead of sugary drinks.
  • Day 16: Write down one healthy boundary you want to keep.
  • Day 17: Practice mindfulness during one meal today.
  • Day 18: Swap a processed snack for fresh fruit or veggies.
  • Day 19: Meditate for at least 5 minutes before bed.
  • Day 20: List three things you’re proud of about yourself.
  • Day 21: Celebrate your journey and reflect on the changes you’ve made.

Take the Next Step

Breaking free from toxic relationships and the habits they create isn’t easy, but it’s possible—and you don’t have to do it alone. I’ve created a complimentary assessment to help you identify where you need support most. You’ll find the link below.

Also, be sure to check out my video it will be out on the18th January 2025 on this topic, which walks you through the 21-day challenge step by step. Together, we’ll tackle the toxic relationships that hold us back and create a life filled with health, happiness, and freedom.

You Are Not Alone

If my story resonates with you, know that I’m here to support you. Reclaiming your health and happiness is a journey, and every step forward counts. Let’s take this journey together and show the world what it looks like to rise above.

With love and belief in your strength,
Colleen The Coach

This tool does not provide medical advice, it is intended for information purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Never ignore professional medical advice in seeking treatment because of something you have read on the Colleen The Coach website. If you suspect you may have a medical emergency, immediately call your doctor or dial 911.

2024, Colleen The Coach. All rights reserves.