Weight Loss Solution, Not Resolution!

This year is going to be different.  You’re going to stick to your weight loss resolution and in a matter of just a few months you’ll lose the weight and then you’ll be happy.  Hmmm…I see a couple things in that statement that need addressing.

First of all, don’t make your happiness the end goal.  What’s stopping you from enjoying life and engaging in happiness regardless of your weight? I’m not being facetious and it’s not a rhetorical question.  Your happiness is available to you every day, in every moment.  When you woke up this morning, was your happiness contingent on the weather, your breakfast or the traffic?  No, it is not contingent or dependent; instead it is ever available so make it every present.

Secondly, and the main focus of this article, is the concept of “sticking to your weight loss resolution.”  Think of the word resolve for a moment.  Its synonyms are words such as determination, steadfastness and doggedness.  Wow, those words imply harsh and strict action, or resistance to something.

Now let’s shift the energy surrounding a resolution from determination to allowing.  Allowing implies a path of least resistance.  What will you allow yourself to do while you are working towards a healthier body?

For instance, when people set weight loss as a resolution they often go the route of a diet with food restrictions.  This is not allowing, this is resolving to deny yourself and anytime you restrict you feel deprived.  A healthy body can be attained by giving yourself a gift, by allowing yourself the time and methods to incorporate enjoyable movement such as Tai Chi, yoga, walks in nature and rejuvenating salt baths.  When you are more aware of your body and what will make it strong and healthy, your food choices will also change, not in a strict determinate fashion, but naturally.

Being self-compassionate is the best way to make a lasting shift in your body.  So don’t think about setting or maintaining a strict resolution this year, think about what healthy gifts you can give your body.  One day at a time.  One motion at a time.

Love and blessings,
Colette Baron-Reid
Intuitive Counselor