As the year winds down and we count the minutes until the new year, the idea of creating a resolution usually comes up. And if you're like many people, losing weight tops your list of things to do next year. The problem with weight loss resolutions is that they don't stick. Its easy to say you plan to lose weight this year, buy its difficult to follow through on that goal. Things get in the way. Our jobs, families and other priorities get in the way of our weight loss goals, not to mention how quickly motivation can fade away.
Shift Your Focus from Weight Loss to Health
Instead of focusing on weight loss this year, why not resolve to improve your health this year? By taking steps to lead a healthier lifestyle, the weight will manage itself. So how do you regain your health? Here are some action steps for a healthier you:
- Love yourself. If you don't love and respect your body, you will never find happiness. A healthy relationship with yourself is the first step to controlling your health. Be aware of everything you consume and how you act and question weather it will positively or negatively impact your health.
- Improve your mental health. Unless you are positive and in the right frame of mind, health and weight loss will not come. Banish stress, meditate, consult a therapist or whatever it takes to change your thinking and be ready for change.
- Improve movement and functionality. Instead of putting the focus of your exercise on losing weight, move your body to feel better, improve flexibility and maintain or build muscle mass.
- Eat to feel good. Dieting is a temporary method of losing weight that rarely works long term. This year, try eating healthy in order to feel good. Eating too many carbs, sugars and fats can make you feel lethargic, lazy and downright bad about yourself. It can zap your energy, cause health problems and alter your mood. But making healthier food choices supports a healthy lifestyle and promotes happiness.
- Heal naturally. For many, reducing the amount of medicine they take is a weight loss motivator. By eating healthy and moving more you can heal naturally without the use of expensive medicine with potential side effects. Don't underestimate the healing power of a clean diet, rich in antioxidants.
Obesity is a byproduct of an unhealthy body. As you review your new year resolutions this year, consider what you can do to improve your health, thus encouraging your body to lose the extra weight.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for educational purposes only and should not be used for diagnosis or to guide treatment without the opinion of a health professional. Any reader who is concerned about his or her health should contact a doctor for advice.
Tracy Rose - Tracy Rose is a powerflifter who holds the state record in deadlifting and has had success in her own weight loss journey.
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