Oh yea, I recently found out that when you have to count your food, it feels exactly like a diet. Not once when I was on atkins recently, did I ever feel like I was on a "diet". It felt like a lifestyle change and eating habits change and I felt a whole lot better than I have been feeling. When I started last year, I hardly ever counted carbs. I had my list of "no" foods that I knew was bad for me and made me feel bad, so I didn't eat them, plain and simple. I exercised about 3 times a week. I need to exercise more now, but since I have two jobs, it is very hard. I recently took up pilates, which is harder than I ever thought. So, yes, you can do it w/o counting carbs. Just stick to your no list. Good luck and if you ever want to ask questions, voice your concerns, or better yet, tell us about your weight loss, we are here for you.
Belle