By Monique Bartlett
January 29th, 2014 Edition
In January there are many people who decide to make a New Year’s Resolution. It’s great that people want to make changes in their lives, however, the fact is that the further we get into the year, fewer people will still be pursuing their goal. So instead of looking for the latest diet or exercise craze, think about what goals you can set that you can actually achieve.
Become more conscious of what you do, how you do it and why you do it. The first step to help you achieve this is to keep a food diary. Write down everything you eat, how you feel when you eat it and why you are eating. Get a food journal where it will be easy for you to see on a daily basis the unconscious habits you have formed which have led to your current habits. Take time to actually enjoy your food and be more mindful while you’re eating.
It should be your goal to aim for a realistic weight loss. Extreme weight loss can be dangerous unless medically supervised. Even then it can cause your weigh to balloon back up because a drastic weight loss is more difficult to maintain. However, when you don’t lose the weight you have set as a goal you may get discouraged. Make your goal achievable. 1-2 pounds a week is reasonable. It is easier to achieve and easier to maintain. Clear your cupboards of food temptations. Think about which foods are your triggers and get rid of them before you sabotage yourself on this journey.
Your ultimate goal should be overall health and wellness. Eating more fruits and vegetables will help you lose weight and boost your immune system. Exercising more will help to increase your metabolism, reshape your body and increase your lean muscle mass. Start slowly and work your way into more increased intensity. You can begin by taking a walk, swim, yoga, psilates and many other exercises that are easier on your muscles. Once you’ve conquered these you can move on to exercises where you can increase your exertion and intensity.
Discuss your weight loss goal with your doctor first. Everyone is different and you may have some limitations that your doctor can help you work through before you begin. Be positive and know that you will be successful if you take this journey just one step at a time.
