Unveiling the Power of IMAGE Therapy on the Slimming World Journey”
When it comes to embarking on a transformative weight loss journey, Slimming World stands out as a beacon of hope and empowerment. I genuinely believe this. After all, I have lost four and a half stone with them. Their weight loss program comprises a three-step approach for a healthier and happier you. To refresh your memory, these three steps are Food Optimizing, Body Magic, and the focus of my article today, IMAGE Therapy.
IMAGE Therapy stands for Individual Motivation and Group Experience. It is the cornerstone of Slimming World’s methodology. It is a blend of motivation, support, and group dynamics, offering participants a holistic approach to health and well-being. But before we delve into the intricacies of IMAGE Therapy, let’s take a quick look at the first two steps on the Slimming World journey. If you want more information, check out this article here.
Step 1: Food Optimising
Food Optimising is the cornerstone of Slimming World’s approach to weight loss. This step is about learning to make healthier food choices while enjoying delicious meals. It’s about creating informed decisions when it comes to food. Food Optimising encourages you to fill your plate with Free Foods, which can be consumed freely without weighing or measuring, but also introduces the subject of portion control. Find out more in this article. These foods are low energy (calories) but have filling power. They make you feel fuller for longer. They also provide essential nutrients without packing on the pounds. With Food Optimising, you’ll discover how to prepare tasty, satisfying meals that are good for your waistline and taste buds.
Step 2: Body Magic
Body Magic is the second step, focusing on the role of physical activity in your weight loss journey. Slimming World believes that exercise is an important aspect of a healthy lifestyle. But the key is not to become an Olympic athlete or to run a marathon; instead, it’s about incorporating moderate and enjoyable activities that elevate your heart rate and promote general well-being. The emphasis here is on making exercise an enjoyable and sustainable habit. Regular physical activity helps you burn calories, improve your fitness, and increase your overall well-being.
Other Body Magic Benefits
But it’s not just about the numbers on the scale. Exercise offers numerous health benefits that extend far beyond weight loss. It can stave off illnesses, boost your mood, and enhance your quality of life. The key is to find an activity you genuinely enjoy, a brisk walk, dancing, swimming, or any other form of exercise. Yes, even sex, as long as you are participating for a minimum of 15 minutes. By choosing something you love, you’re more likely to stick with it, creating a long-lasting, healthier lifestyle.
Now, let’s shift our focus to the heart of Slimming World’s transformative process:
Step 3: IMAGE Therapy
IMAGE Therapy is where the magic happens, bringing a powerful combination of motivation and group support. It’s about connecting with like-minded individuals who share similar goals and ambitions. Here, we become part of a community of individuals committed to their health and happiness.
The Key Elements of IMAGE Therapy
Individual: This is where your consultant, in my case my friend, encourages and supports each member to achieve our weekly, monthly and yearly weight loss goals. My friends in the group are also there to help us and encourage us for the week ahead.
Motivation: At the core of IMAGE Therapy is motivation. These sessions provide a safe and encouraging environment to discuss our challenges, share our successes, and renew our commitment to our weight loss journey. The consultant and group members become our support pillars, providing inspiration and encouragement to help us stay on track.
Group Experience: The group experience within IMAGE Therapy offers a wealth of perspectives, tips, and stories. It’s an opportunity to learn from other members. To gain fresh insights into our journey and receive guidance from those who’ve walked a similar path. The sense of belonging and camaraderie that develops in these sessions is invaluable.
Another E, from Me, Emotional Well-being with Image Therapy
IMAGE Therapy doesn’t just focus on the physical aspect of weight loss; it also emphasises emotional well-being. Understanding the emotional connections to our eating habits, triggers, and relationship with food. It’s about fostering a positive and healthy attitude towards food and ourselves.
Accountability with Image Therapy
Slimming World meets weekly, and regular group meetings are a built-in accountability system. Knowing that a group is waiting for you creates a sense of responsibility to stay on course. The collective journey creates a shared sense of accomplishment and progress.
Foremost, IMAGE Therapy is more than just a conventional support group; it is a nurturing environment that encourages individuals to explore their inner motivations and aspirations. Within the safe space of IMAGE Therapy sessions, participants uncover the root causes of their relationship with food and weight, addressing the psychological and emotional aspects of their journey. The group experience fosters community and shared understanding, enabling members to draw strength from each other’s experiences and triumphs.
As an integral part of Slimming World’s three-step program, IMAGE Therapy offers a holistic approach to weight loss and health improvement. It’s about empowering individuals to take control of their lives, cultivate a supportive community, and achieve their goals. Slimming World understands that a healthy lifestyle is not just about the food you eat or your exercise; it’s about finding balance, motivation, and lasting support on your journey to a happier, healthier you.
So, if you’re considering a weight loss program that goes beyond the scale and truly focuses on your well-being, IMAGE Therapy and Slimming World’s three-step approach might be the programme you’ve been looking for. It has been for me. It’s not just about losing weight; it’s about gaining a life filled with health, happiness, and community support.
In weight management and personal development, IMAGE Therapy is a guiding light, illuminating the path toward a healthier, more fulfilling lifestyle. It’s a testament to the profound impact of support, understanding, and holistic well-being on one’s journey towards self-discovery and sustainable weight loss. Through the synergy of community support, emotional empowerment, and a renewed focus on physical activity, Slimming World’s IMAGE Therapy fosters a profound transformation that transcends mere weight loss, heralding a renewed sense of vitality and well-being for all who embark on this life-changing journey. It’s not just the talkie bit at the end!
How am I doing?
I have to be honest. Not so good. I have had a few things going on in my business and at home and ran to the cupboard for support. This only lasts for 48 hours. However, I decided to read some of my articles and feel inspired to stick to the plan and move forward. I desperately want to get to my goal weight. I need to remind myself that I can do it. I’ve done it before. Even rereading the above has given me the passion to refocus.
Sunday is normally a fantastic day of rest, or so you would think, unless you are a Slimming World Consultant. This is when many consultants spend a few hours doing Slimming World mid week support. I know this, because whenever I ask my friend to come out for a walk on a Sunday, she always refuses as she is doing midweek support. Consultants respect and admire all their members. After all, without their members, they wouldn’t have a business. They want their members to be successful at weight loss. There are six straightforward reasons for this:
If a member loses weight, they will tell family and friends how they did it and hopefully suggest to family and friends that they should join the group if they need to lose weight.
When members reach their goal weight, they are a perfect advertisement for the club.
Consultants take pride in helping their members move from where they were to where they want to be. Either a number on the scales, fitting into a wedding dress or any other goal the member has.
Consultants want the people in the group to be happy and excited about the changes in their lives.
Members are the lifeline of the group, and if you get a few members who love coming and make the group a joy to be in, other members will come and stay. Not just to lose weight, but for friendship and fun.
The Consultants, like their members, become vested in their lives. They celebrate and support members when times are good and hard.
Slimming World Mid Week Support
Slimming World Mid week support comes in a variety of ways. It can be a general video on Facebook or YouTube. It can be single text messages and emails to each individual member. All messages are personal and encouraging. Commenting on their weight loss that week. Asking if they need any help or support. Depending on your group, this can take an hour to three. It usually takes me about three hours.
This is not to mention individual meetings. My friend has had several one-to-one’s with my members, as they found the plan hard. When she talk to them, it’s not the plan they find challenging, but what is going on at home. Most women find that they have lost themselves in the roles of wife, mother, daughter, employee, etc. They find it challenging to discover who they are and if they like themselves. As one of her members recently told me, Slimming World was the only place she could go to be themselves. It was the one place where they were Katie, and no one was yelling for something. No one wanted anything from her. This was the place she could be herself. Listening to these stories repeatedly reveals that going to and staying in a group is much more than a weight loss programme. Many of these ladies have put everyone first and lost themselves. This is the place where they are trying to find themselves.
Confidence within members
One of the other significant aspects of being a consultant is seeing the confidence growing in each member. A recent widow joined our group and was in tears as she discussed how she put on her weight. Losing her husband was too much for her, and she found comfort in food. She put on the weight and now wants to be the woman she remembers as she faces her grief. It is taking time, but her confidence is growing with each meeting. The way she walks and carries herself. The way she interacts with the group and the friends she makes.
I found that day 10 was a tough day on my eating plan and I am having that feeling where I start to go awry. I am sure you know the feeling. You have been on plan for ages; nothing changes, yet you are still slogging your guts out to stay on plan. McDonald’s and cakes are being advertised on TV; if I never see an advert for chocolate, it will be too soon.
To overcome this 30-minute self-depravation pity party, because that is what it is, I took my dog out for a really nice long walk. We have a rule: I decided on the walk during the week. Usually, it’s walking into work and home again. On weekends, it is her choice, and she knows it. This week, we went on a nature walk. We have several fields near us, and she wanted to explore those. She took her time, and what was meant to be an hour’s walk turned out to be about two hours.
A Childs Scooter
En route, I found a child scooter thrown in the hedge, so I picked it up and started to ride it. It took me back to my youth; anyone looking on would have thought we were mad. I was on a kid’s scooter, and the dog crouched behind me, thinking she would fall off any minute. I didn’t, but it made me smile and lifted my mood. It’s incredible what people will throw away. Last week, I found a new pair of NEXT curtains, just dumped in the hedgerow. I took them home, washed them and now they are in the spare bedroom.
I completed my 10,000-foot falls today, which I know is excellent for my body’s overall health. I’m dedicated to my weight loss journey this week and giving it my all. When I got home, I was pleasantly surprised that the roast chicken was almost ready to be served. I had to set the table, make some gravy (only 3 syns, which is not too bad), and serve up.
Can’t beat a disaster movie for relaxation
After indulging in a satisfying lunch, I decided to dedicate my afternoon to some relaxation and entertainment. I settled in front of the TV, watching a disaster movie. It was the perfect way to unwind and recharge before the impending workweek, a brief escape into the world of fiction and action.
One of the most satisfying aspects of my day was that I successfully adhered to my plan for healthy eating. I’d set out with a clear intention of making mindful and nutritious choices, and I stayed true to my goal. It’s a testament to my commitment to my overall well-being and health. Taking control of my dietary choices and making healthier decisions have become a significant part of my journey, and seeing it through gives me a sense of accomplishment and empowerment.
As the day transitions into the evening, I find myself in a state of optimism and anticipation. While keeping my fingers crossed and hoping for a positive outcome when I step on the scales this week, I’m consciously avoiding putting undue pressure on myself. Weight loss is a journey with its ebbs and flows, and I’ve come to understand that it’s essential to maintain a balanced and sustainable approach.
Staying on the Slimming World Food Optimising Plan
My focus remains on staying committed to my goals, whether they involve making healthier food choices, engaging in regular physical activity, or cultivating a more positive mindset. The results will come, but they’re just one part of the larger picture. What truly matters is the ongoing effort, the daily choices that align with my aspirations, and the persistent dedication to my well-being.
So, as I look ahead to the coming week, I do so with a heart full of hope and determination. Each step towards a healthier me is in the right direction, and I’m excited to continue this journey. Challenges, moments of temptation, and occasional setbacks may exist, but it’s all part of the process. With commitment, patience, and the understanding that every day is a new opportunity to make progress, I embrace the future with open arms, eagerly awaiting its best.
You may also be interested in the following articles
Alternatively:- Empowering Women on their Food Optimising journey with Slimming World and Prioritising Self-Care and Taking Control – I couldn’t decided on which title to give this article. So its both.
A Feeling of Completeness and tranquillity
As I write this blog post, I’m filled with an inexplicable sense of positivity and an overwhelming feeling of happiness. I can’t put my finger on why. It’s one of those days when the weekend seemed to stretch forever. It feels like I have been away on holiday and am refreshed and ready for the world. I was looking forward to coming into the office, and woe betide anyone who tries to ruin my mood. Food Optimising has been brilliant this weekend, and I have filled up on speed foods and free foods. For more information on these foods, click here.
I usually try to work on my business finances on a Mondays and lock myself away from everyone. However, today was an exception. One of my Slimming World colleagues has been going through a tough time on their weight loss journey. We started at the same time and I have been a more successful then her. I am keen to help and support her. She asked if I wanted to meet up for a coffee and chat. I said yes and knew what she wanted to discuss. Maybe together, we could find out why she is making bad choices and how to get her back on the plan she wants to follow. I am also a life coach and help people reach their personal goals.
The Food Optimising Elephant in the Room
Our conversation meandered through various topics, circling everything except the elephant in the room. Eventually, I had to bring up her weight loss journey and food optimising with Slimming World. Taking a deep breath, she said that she knew what to do. She has done it before but struggles to achieve the weight loss she wants. When we discussed her food optimising choices, I got a sly little smile, a resigned a deep breath, and an honest answer. “I haven’t been making great choices”. We continued our chat about Food Optimising and what steps she could take to help her with better choices, and she left with an action plan.
I also suggested she talk to her consultant, she would also be happy to help.
Thinking about my friend and Food Optimising on Slimming World
She is a busy mum of four. She has two children under the age of 7 and two teenagers. Her husband is out at work and is often away for the week working. The responsibility of looking after the children and the home is left to her. As a result, she is always last on the list. Added to this, one of her parents is seriously ill, and she is a caregiver. She has a lot on her plate.
Is it a trend?
It’s not uncommon for women to put themselves last on the priority list, consistently placing family, friends, and work ahead of their own needs. It’s a selfless act driven by love and responsibility but often leaves little or no energy for self-care. This is what my friend is doing. She is giving everything to everyone except herself. This is when those less-than-ideal food optimising choices have started to creep in. It’s a shame because she is the bedrock of her family, like many other women worldwide. The one person with whom everything revolves.
It’s disheartening when I hear women resign to a perpetual second place in their lives. My message to them is simple: “NO, YOU ARE NOT SECOND; YOU ARE THE MOST IMPORTANT PERSON IN YOUR HOUSEHOLD.” I encourage them to find just five or ten minutes to be themselves, to rediscover the passions they had as children. It could be as simple as listening to a favourite song, dancing, taking an exercise class, writing in a journal, or immersing themselves in a book or magazine.
I’m on my high horse – just so you know, a rant is about to follow
Regrettably, too few women take these moments for themselves. Yet, when a woman begins to prioritise herself, she gains control over her life. Whether that involves taking control of her eating habits or embarking on a weight loss journey like, it’s a decisive step toward self-empowerment. And remember, we’re here to offer guidance and unwavering support every step of the way.
When a woman embarks on self-discovery, strengthening her inner resolve, and learning to believe in herself, she undergoes a profound transformation. It’s as if she unlocks a wellspring of untapped potential and resilience, ready to propel her toward her goals and aspirations. This newfound strength is a physical manifestation and a profound shift in mindset and self-perception.
As she nurtures her well-being, tending to her physical, mental, and emotional health, she emerges as a formidable force capable of surmounting any obstacle that crosses her path. The trials and tribulations that once seemed impossible are now mere stepping stones on her journey to greatness. She faces challenges with courage, determination, and a sense of purpose, unshaken by the doubts and insecurities that may have held her back in the past.
A message to all incredible women
To all the incredible women out there, never forget that you are the heroines of your own stories. Your life’s narrative is written by your choices, dreams, and actions. It’s a tale of resilience, strength, and the relentless pursuit of your potential. You are not defined by the roles you play or the expectations placed upon you. Instead, you are defined by your choices and the unyielding belief you hold in your abilities.
In a world that often demands selflessness and sacrifice, prioritising self-care is crucial. This is not an act of selfishness but a necessary investment in your own well-being. When you care for yourself, you become better equipped to care for others, and your impact on the world multiplies exponentially.
So, stand tall, take control of your life, and watch as you radiate with an inner light that can only be ignited when you prioritise your needs and dreams. As you invest in your own growth and happiness, you become the best version of yourself—an inspiration to those around you and a testament to the incredible power that resides within every woman.
You are not alone
Remember that you are not alone in your journey of self-discovery and empowerment. There is a community of women who share your aspirations, dreams, and challenges. Lean on this sisterhood for support, encouragement, and shared wisdom. Together, we can redefine the narrative of what it means to be a woman, breaking free from the constraints of society’s expectations and forging our paths toward success and fulfilment.
So, to all the remarkable women, not just in the Slimming World group, but all women. I say this: Prioritise self-care, nurture your inner strength, and embrace the transformative journey ahead. You are capable of achieving greatness, and your story is one of inspiration and empowerment. Let your light shine brightly, for you are a force to be reckoned with, and the world is a better place with your unique brilliance.
How much does a Slimming World Consultant earn? That will depend on the group they manage and the number of members in that group. However, each consultant has a passion for their group and helping their members lose weight. As stated before my friend is a Slimming World Consultant and I am helping her with her groups. Let me explain.
Today, I was up extra early for a Saturday as my friend had agreed to cover another consultant group as she was sick. It was strange being back in the group as this is where I started my weight loss journey. However, I am much lighter this time, and helping in this group brings back some good and bad memories. I remember walking into the hall and thinking that here we go again. I know it is common for consultants to say that walking through the door is the hardest thing to do. Some consultants will even say they came to the group and then drove away because they couldn’t face walking in alone, etc.
I have to be truthful, I never felt like that. I know some people do, but most members walk through the door and are resigned to wanting to lose weight. That was me. I was 17 stone 12 pounds and knew I wanted to lose weight. There was no big drama; I was fat, big, whatever you want to call it, and I wanted to lose some weight. End of story.
Let’s Talk Money
Now, let us talk money. This is the one thing that seems to be the biggest secret where Slimming World is concerned. How much do Slimming World Consultants get paid? Well, this seems to depend on the size of the group, the more members you have the better paid. It’s all based on percentages. Consultants get a percentage of the income they take each week. This percentage can and does change each week.
For ease of reference here are the percentages
0-34 members = 35%
34 – 49 members = 45 %
50 – 64 members = 50%
65 – 99+ members = 55%
If you have 35 members, you will receive 35% of the fees that day. The rest of the money goes to Slimming World. The Consultant must pay for the room rent (although Slimming World will cover a small percentage).
The Consultant must buy all the food diaries they hand out, so they often hang on to them. Every time a member receives an award and is given a sticker and certificate, the consultant has to buy the certificate, and Slimming World pays for the sticker. Here’s the kicker: if you have a target member, they can come to the group for free. The consultant doesn’t get a penny for them being in the group. Also, they don’t count towards your number of group attendees. It’s only paying members.
So if you have a room of 35 people, 5 are target members, you only have 30 paying members. From that, 30 members (for example, 23 members paying £5.95 as they are under the age of 65, the income will be £136.80. 7 members are over the age of 65, so they only pay £5.65 so the payment will be £39.55).
It’s not that simple. Some of these members may have purchased a 6 or 12-week countdown, which means they get 1 or 2 weeks free. Additionally, the consultant get a percentage of the total countdown fee when they purchase it. That means the member joins the group for the next 6 or 12 weeks, having already paid. So, some weeks, the income will be much less than stated above.
Slimming World Consultant Earn after Room Rent
Room rent is split between the Consultant and Slimming World. For example m friends room rent is £55.00. So, working on the figures above, £176.35 (the fees, we are pretending there are no countdowns, so our figures will be good). Our income is £121.35.
From that figure, because we only have 30 paying members, our weekly income is £42.47.
How Much Does a Slimming World Consultant Earn – Hourly Rate
My Friend has worked out that it takes a minimum of 10 hours per week to run a group. You have to arrive at the venue an hour before to set up. Welcome the members and run the group, that’s an hour and a half. Answer questions, coach and support members on the day, usually another hour. Then packing up for 1 hour. Slimming World has some stringent reporting rules, so when you get home, there is about an hour’s worth of paperwork. Then there is mid-week support. You contact your members to ensure they are OK, coach them, talk to them, send emails, etc. This takes, on average, 3 hours.
Slimming World has team developers who like to chat with you every week for 30 minutes, which is an hour in reality. Once a month, there are team meetings that start at 7 and don’t finish until 9 on a Friday night.
Some nights, she has walked away from the group owing slimming world money. Her average income has been between £50-60 a group. she has selected to ignore the time she spend outside of the group.
I will discuss Marketing, Leafletting and the constant training she has to do, at her own expense, later.
Back to being a substitute Consultant
It is common when a substitute consultant takes a group for the group members to weigh and go. This is a shame as each consultant brings a new view and enthusiasm to the plan. She only had 10 members stay in the group, but we had a blast. At least I did.
The group was over by 11. She got £30 as a substitute consultant, and I was there to help my friend. We arrived at 8 a.m. and left at 11. £10.00 per hour, below minimum wage!!! She did buy me a coffee and we went shopping after, so she actually got a little less than that.
Back to me and my Plan
Breakfast was a massive fruit bowl of satsumas, grapes, and watermelon. It is one of my favourite meals. All speed foods. The rest of my food was on plan, and I love this renewed enthusiasm for weight loss.
The Fast Forward Plan with Slimming World – Thursday 17 February 2022
Starting weight: 86.2
Days
One 86.2
Two 85.8
Three 85.4
Four 84.8
Five 85.2
Six 84.8
Seven 84.8
Total loss: 1.4 kg. It’s still going down.
I made it. At last, it was a long seven days with a stringent diet. My eventual weight loss was 1.4 kg. I am thrilled, but I didn’t meet my 3kg weight loss, but it means that I am much nearer to my end goal of 70 kg within a week.
I am looking forward to going back to the regular Slimming World Food Optimising plan. Not having to weigh food and count units. Now I have to make sure I don’t put any weight on. I am not going mad at my free foods as I think the next week will be more critical than the Fast Forward Plan week.
Would I do the The Fast Forward Plan with Slimming World again?
Yes, I think that is maybe worth doing every few months. Not because I want the massive weight loss, but it reminded me about Food Optimising and that the choice is in my hands. I will not preach, as it was hard. Family mealtimes were difficult, and Saturday treat night was difficult for everyone.
I don’t think it’s a plan that should be used all the time; the calorie intake is low. Slimming World says this is the last resort plan. I can’t see why. Consultants use other tools if you are struggling to lose weight. For example:
Food diaries
Individual consultation with your consultant,
Extra easy SP,
For and against lists.
Self Sabotage
However, this plan is a helpful booster for those who need it. It should be kept in the back cupboard under a large box and padlocked. It is just another valuable tool to help kick-start your weight loss journey once you get stuck. You will need the same motivation you had when you first started your Slimming World journey. It is useful and it has its place, and it works as a short-term fix for a quick boost of weight loss. I know that it’s NOT food optimising, which is probably why Slimming World doesn’t want to discuss it a great deal. It will make you appreciate the plan again, get you to reread the books, and start to plan your meals.
What has this plan taught you?
It has shown me I don’t always count my syns. I am eating more significant portions and need to keep them in check.
You may be interested in my other posts on The Fast Forward Plan with Slimming World
