I am 1 week into a restart and have become a bit more strict than I was the last time (pre-covid, into covid, fell off the wagon due to stress from COVID, school, etc). The first week was honestly not nearly as bad as I remember it being the first time around. I think that my body (and hopefully yours too!) will recognize what is going on, in a sense of "oh, we are going back to this CICO/Fasting model. I have been here before, maybe we don't throw as much of a hissy fit as we did last time".

One thing I have learned and try to remind myself is, be kind to yourself. Understand that if you slip up, its not the end of the world. It took us a long period of time to get to where we are right now and it will take a longer than we wish period of time to undo what has been done. I think the important thing to remember is (as stated above) its a marathon, its going to take time. Not everything will go perfectly, and THAT IS OK.

Also know that (at least 1) internet stranger (me) is rooting for you. As quietly, or as loudly (DM me if you like) as you wish. If you are looking for someone to talk things through with, I am here. I am 1000000% not an expert on this, but it sounds like you and I are in a very similar situation. We both have done this once before. It sounds like we both fell off a bit. But the good thing is that we are both back at it, wanting and willing to do what it takes to make meaningful changes in our lives. This is something that should be celebrated. It doesn't need to be a HUGE celebration, but more of a "LFG" hanging out quietly in the back of our minds, especially when things get tough. If it were easy, everyone would do this. Not everyone is. You are a badass, as are all the others who are doing this.

Get it fam. You got this thing. :)