Some people join fitness challenges to get “shredded,” but my aspiration is simply to become “officially overweight.” I started at 98kg (firmly in the “Obese” category). The Buddha taught impermanence; unfortunately, my waistline has been remarkably persistent.

Responding to the Get Fit for Guhyaloka appeal, I committed to lose 15kg – equivalent to three large bags of rice! I was on track after dropping 6kg, but an emergency appendectomy (ouch!) sidelined me. Two months of recovery, no routine, and a bit of feeling sorry for myself left me back at 97kg.

Time to regroup! I’m resetting my target to Sangha Day (22 Nov) to reach 83kg. I hope to raise £200 per kilo to: 1) keep Guhyaloka thriving as a sanctuary for awareness, love, and wisdom, and 2) avoid premature visits to the Bardo.