Ahhh, the holidays…filled with those decadent desserts and lavish dinners that are oh-so-tempting and oh-so-indulgently calorie laden – but don’t lose your holiday spirit just yet.
No, No, No to Holiday Weight Gain
Studies have shown that from fall to spring, an average person adds on about one pound – but one year later, they never lost that pound – and even gained slightly more weight.
Those overweight or obese, however, tend to gain 5 pounds or more during the same six-month period – and a year later, that weight gain is still maintained.
So, it’s not holiday indulging that puts on the pounds. It’s a gradual process that occurs during a time when we’re not outdoors as much or as active.
But by being present in the moment, we can build a fabulous beach body – not our waist size.
Stop Doing. Just Be Present..
We humans are addicted to thinking. We let the present moment slip away without ever realizing its silent beauty
Practicing an awareness of the present is full of health benefits. It can help reduce stress and lower blood pressure. You become a witness, watching yourself, being aware of the endless thought stream that dulls your senses.
Well-known author Eckhart Tolle sums up the beauty of being present:
“As soon as you honor the present moment, all unhappiness and struggle dissolve, and life begins to flow with joy and ease. When you act out the present-moment awareness, whatever you do becomes imbued with a sense of quality, care and love – even the most simple action.”
Harvard psychologist and author Ellen Langer sums up mindfulness: “When people are not in the moment, they’re not there to know that they’re not there.”
What does practicing awareness have to do with eating? When you are present in the moment, you’ll be that much more mindful of your eating habits.
Why Wait To Lose Weight?
Since studies have shown weight gain occurs over a six-month period and not just at holiday binge eating, why wait until New Year’s to make a weight loss resolution?
Right now is the perfect time to get your weight management goals on track. There are many steps you can take to increase your chances of success.
For starters:
1. Begin by weighing yourself. Now you know where you’re starting and what you need to do. Research shows those who weigh themselves at least 6 days a week lost more during a one-year period.
2. Resolve today to set your new mindfulness practice into action. It’s amazing how not present we often are. Think of all the times you were enjoying a good conversation when “just one” cookie turned into a half dozen…
3. Start giving thanks for all the things that make you grateful. Gratitude pays immense dividends. The more you recognize what you’re thankful for, the more you discover to be grateful for – and you begin your journey towards a more fulfilling experience.
Let It Be Easy, Even When it Comes to Weight Loss
Famous motivational speaker Louise Hay often said of our journey in life: “Let it be easy.”
Oftentimes we are too critical of ourselves and unforgiving. When we put that simple philosophy to use in our lives, our weight loss goals can be achieved!
During the holidays, don’t just do things because it’s ‘tradition.” Instead of huge meals or restaurant outings with friends – where the temptation is greater to overeat – create your own tradition!
Volunteer at an organization that has meaning for you – perhaps one that serves the homeless or an animal shelter, serve meals to the elderly, or make up your own gift card for someone in need (offer a free day of babysitting, running errands, or cleaning).
Do something that calls out to you and that brings a deeper meaning to your life. And don’t feel guilty for being you.
5 Simple Tips to Help You Achieve Weight Loss
As we end our last post of 2018, we’ll leave you with 5 straightforward strategies to keep you on track:
1. Write down your weight loss goals – and make sure you include the all-important “why.” Knowing why you’re motivated to lose weight makes your efforts that much more meaningful.
2. Plan your holiday menus. Cut down on high fat items. Enjoy a holiday dessert – but eat slowly, savoring each bite. Recognize that overindulging now will make your weight loss goals more difficult.
3. Cheer yourself on…when you take your walk or run on the treadmill, realize that doing a little bit more each day brings you to your goal faster.
4. Don’t forget sleep. Lack of sleep can add stress; research often shows those who don’t get enough sleep tend to eat more, which of course adds unwanted pounds.
5. Be kind to yourself. Implement a self-care practice. The more you focus on something you perceive as “bad” or “wrong”, the more anxiety you experience.
So, just remember: Outline your goals. Practice gratitude. Stay present. All of these serve as great reminders that momentary comfort does not equal long term satisfaction or fulfillment.
The slimmer finish line is in sight! And before you know it, you’ll be rockin that fabulous beach body just in time for Summer 2019!
Need a jumpstart to achieve your weight loss goals? Our proven WhyWeight system includes a team of weight loss experts to support you through your entire journey.