Weight Loss Tips

Spring is here and summer is just around the corner. That means it is time to reassess those extra pounds accumulated over the winter hibernation. If weight loss is a goal, here are some tips to help you get there.

Adjust

Realize that your body will change from season to season and with the ability to cope with stress, availability for exercise, and, yes, age. If you are feeling less healthy, then it is time to prioritize and set new standards. Try to avoid feelings of shame or guilt but focus on the positive aspects of your life.

Cravings

Cravings are not necessarily bad. If we find ourselves with an overpowering urge for a particular food, it could be that the body needs some vitamin or element. For example, a craving for avocados could be a need for healthy fat.

That’s not to say that you should binge, but there can be alternatives that can work. If you really want fries, go with sweet potatoes. If you make them at home, you can control the amount of salt and fat as well. If you have got to have pizza, opt for a cauliflower crust. Basically try to incorporate as many vegetables and nutrients while still satisfying your cravings.

Get Moving

Especially with home remote work stations, it becomes easy to forget to take breaks and when you do it may just be to use the restroom or grab a snack. Both mentally and physically it is important to take breaks from work particularly if it involves a lot of sitting. Get up and at least stretch, do a few jumping jacks, walk around the block, and avoid just scrolling through your phone again.

Physical activities will help your brain refocus. It is also a good way to include a few extra steps and motivate the next part of your day. Even a 10 or 60 second respite can make a significant difference. Walk to a window and look out. Make your eyes find the furthest point they can see. This will also benefit your vision by giving it a change from looking at a screen continually.

Track Habits

Sometimes we eat not because we are hungry but out of habit. If you find yourself snacking while watching television, or some other (usually sedentary) activity, ask yourself if you are really hungry or trying to fill some other void. Emotional snacking can also be the reason you have opened that bag of chips or went scrounging for cookies. For many people a food diary can help.

Avoid the Scale

Weighing yourself too frequently can be frustrating when you don’t see the numbers decreasing or not as fast as you would like them to. A better measure is how you look and feel in your clothes.

Exercise Buddy

You are more likely to stick to an exercise regimen if you do it with a friend. As a pair you hold each other accountable as well as companionship and a few good laughs along the way.

Achieving and maintaining a proper weight can benefit your health and mental attitude.