Resolve to Eat Right!
Did thoughts of New Year's resolutions fill your head as you enjoyed all
the wonderful foods of the season? You told yourself that come January
things would be different. Now January is here and if you're like 60% of
people who made a New Year's resolution, you're on a diet. Unfortunately,
New Year's resolutions are mostly ineffective because they are more like
a wish list than a thoughtful plan for change. So what will make this year
different for you from years past?
If you're committed to weight loss this year, but have a history of failed attempts, take heart, it's probably not you. Perhaps it's the approaches you've been trying. Diets by nature fail. If you tell yourself you will never eat bread again, and you love bread, how long before you give in and once again feel like a failure. Wouldn't it be better to enjoy food more and eat less? Eating mindfully allows your body to gravitate to your perfect weight.
Mindful eating asks you to be more aware of your thoughts , feelings and environments.
Notice if you're hungry and how hungry you are. Are you eating because the clock says it's time to eat? Or is it because everyone else is eating, or perhaps you are bored, angry, tired or excited? Be aware of the reasons you feel like eating, and eat only when you are feeling hungry.
Notice the texture and flavors of the food. The tongue has all the taste buds, so just put a small bite of food in your mouth at a time, chew, and remember to breathe. The flavors of sweet, bitter, sour, and salty actually come from the aromas. Pause for a moment before taking the next bite.
And finally, notice how you feel as each bite fills your stomach. Recognize when the next bite could be the one that makes you feel stuffed and uncomfortable. Decide before you start to eat that when you are finished you will feel wonderful, energized and in charge.
Replace dieting with a lifestyle of mindful eating. This New Year, instead of having a weak of wishful resolution, have a life-changing mindful revolution!
Vera Knight is an ACE certified Master Trainer and Fitness & Wellness Coach, with over 10 years in the fitness industry, and owner of Focus Fitness Personal Training Studio where fitness happens in an environment that's motivating, uplifting, inspiring and welcoming. Contact Vera at www.focusfitnesstucson.com, 1116 S. Pantano Rd., Tucson 85710, (520) 404-2069 or (520) 891-9883.
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