Wave by Wave – Part 7 about how we finally broke a pattern we had struggled with for years — just when we least expected it.
Wave by Wave is the title of my new book, where I share how a major life change – from a busy life in Stockholm to living and sailing around the world with my husband – transformed me. In this article series, I reflect on our journey and share my most important insights, wave by wave.
Resignation
We had an area of our lives that we had quietly given up on. Over the years, our weight had slowly crept up and by this point we were overweight. We had tried to turn it around, but nothing lasted, and we hadn’t made a commitment. Eventually, we got used to it – and with so much else going well, we stopped trying. We had no plans at all to change our eating habits. The pantries were full, and we were looking forward to months of peaceful sailing along the coast of New Zealand.
At the Calmest Time in Our Life
And then, when everything was calm, my husband got that nudge again. He began reading up on obesity. He had recently had hip replacement on both sides and realised that losing weight would make a big difference. I also began to see that my excess weight, blood sugar drops and sweet cravings were signals to take seriously.
Research had made great progress. Everything pointed toward the ketogenic diet. And more studies were linking eating habits to lifestyle-related illnesses such as diabetes, stress and Alzheimer’s – all on the rise.
Giving It Another Try
We decided to give our bodies a better chance to function properly. Out went sugar, white flour, refined oils and processed food. In came nutritious foods like olive oil, leafy greens and protein from animals that graze freely year-round. We also cut out alcohol and ate only one meal a day for many months.
And It Worked
It took time – and it wasn’t easy. Fasting made us tired and grumpy. We needed the surrounding quiet. We rested, learned new ways to cook and stuck with it.
But, it worked.
Arthur lost 30 kg, and I lost 20 kg and have kept my ideal weight for two years.
My cravings for sweets are gone. My blood sugar is stable.
I feel calmer, more balanced and happier.
It was tough, but we did it.
This is the best thing I’ve ever done for my physical health.
What Are You Doing to Support Your Future Self?
Welcome to reach out if you would like support in a transition of any kind. As I see it, it’s never too late, and there is always a next step to take.
All the best from Anna
Santa Cruz, 2 July 2025
Wave by Wave is available on Adlibris and Amazon.
Part 1 – Commitment Is Crucial
Part 2 – A Life We Love
Part 3 – Letting Go and Lighten Up
Part 4 – Inviting the New
Part 5 – Saying Yes to Challenges
Part 6 – Slow Down and Get Connected