Many people want to look and feel their best during the holidays, whether for family gatherings, festive parties, or summer getaways. But for some, the pressure to ‘get in shape fast’ can feel overwhelming.

Increasingly, people are turning to medically supervised slimming and body treatments as tools to support healthy, gradual changes alongside consistent lifestyle habits, not as shortcuts or quick fixes, according to Lea-Anne Rheeders, the owner and founder of Young Again Aesthetics, a wellness clinic based in Sunninghill.

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Rheeders grew up overweight, struggled with thyroid issues, and had little guidance on how to manage her health and body confidence. This is something she does not wish for anyone, and the reasons she enjoys talking about health.

“My thyroid issues affected my confidence, my health, and how I saw myself.” She said it wasn’t until she addressed stubborn fat, alongside healthy lifestyle changes, that she finally felt strong, healthy, and confident.”

If you’re looking to lose a few pounds or add new body goals to your New Year’s resolutions, Rheeders said making small, consistent changes can really make a difference.

“Before starting, people must understand their why, their lifestyle, their hormones, and their overall health picture. When those foundations are right, treatments become incredibly safe and effective.”

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She said for many people, December isn’t just about appearance, it’s an emotional time. Social pressure and body insecurities can drive people to seek change.

“My approach to such topics is gentle, honest, and supportive. We talk about lifestyle, mindset, hormones, and even past struggles with weight or self-esteem. Many people aren’t chasing perfection; they’re looking for confidence, control, and the feeling of being comfortable in their own skin.”

Rheeders encourages a balanced, sustainable approach to holiday eating and socialising. “You can’t punish yourself with restriction in December; it always backfires,” she said. Instead, Rheeders recommends:

• Maintaining simple routines like hydration, walking, and sleep
• Enjoying balanced meals rather than extreme diets
• Supporting gut health with prebiotics and probiotics
• Incorporating lymphatic care
• Focusing on consistent small habits rather than all-or-nothing thinking.

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