Hey there. It might sound ridiculous, but Star Wars actually played a big role in my weight loss journey. Not because I followed some Jedi-inspired fitness program, but because it helped me shift my habits in a way that made sticking to my plan easier.
I grew up watching the original trilogy, and when the prequels came out, I saw them too. But I didn’t get really into Star Wars until I discovered the Expanded Universe—a massive collection of over 100 novels set in the Star Wars universe. It all started when I picked up a Star Wars audiobook at a used bookstore. Around that time, I was trying to improve my sleep, and I had read in The 4-Hour Body by Tim Ferriss that reading light fiction before bed could help. So, I gave it a shot.
Reading Star Wars books at night helped me unwind and actually fall asleep more easily. That alone was a huge win, but things really started to change when I found Star Wars video games, specifically Knights of the Old Republic. Instead of spending my evenings snacking or eating out of boredom, I got into playing this game. It gave me something to do that didn’t involve food, and before I knew it, I was breaking a habit I had struggled with for years.
This wasn’t about Star Wars itself—it was about finding something I could geek out about. Something that gave me a healthy distraction from stress eating. Whether it was reading a Star Wars novel or playing a game for 15 minutes instead of mindlessly snacking, it gave me a simple but effective way to stay on track.
So here’s the real takeaway—even if Star Wars isn’t your thing, find something that is. Everyone needs an escape, something they can enjoy that helps them step away from stress and emotional eating. It could be a hobby, a book series, a game, or anything that lets you focus on something other than food.
If you’re a Star Wars fan and have never read the novels, I highly recommend starting with The Thrawn Trilogy. It takes the classic characters you love and expands their stories in a way that fits right in with the original movies. Another great series is Fate of the Jedi, which dives even deeper into the expanded universe.
And before I go, I want to hear from you—who is your favorite Star Wars character and why? Hit me up on social and let me know.
If you’re looking for ways to build a sustainable approach to health and fitness, join The YLF Experience. Find what works for you, build a plan that fits your life, and enjoy the process along the way!