Focus on Health Rather Than Just Weight Loss
A healthy lifestyle is about more than just losing weight. It’s also about feeling good in your body, having energy throughout the day, reducing disease risk factors, and enjoying movement that makes you feel alive.
Set Compassionate Goals
When setting weight loss goals, make sure they are realistic and sustainable for your body. Getting caught up in specific numbers on the scale can lead to self-criticism. Instead, focus on how you want to feel – making goals like having enough energy to play with your kids or move comfortably through your day.
Find Activities You Enjoy
Look for physical activities that are fun and energizing for you. Going on walks with a friend, taking a dance class, playing sports recreationally, or doing yardwork can all count. If it gets your body moving and brings you joy, then it’s worth doing.
Eat Intuitively
Listen to your body’s natural hunger signals. Eat when you feel hungry, focusing on whole, nourishing foods. Stop when you feel satisfied but not stuffed. This helps create a healthy relationship with food.
Get Plenty of Sleep
Getting enough high-quality sleep is essential for supporting metabolic health. Aim for 7-9 hours per night, going to bed and waking up at consistent times.
FAQs
What if I slip up on my eating plan?
It’s completely normal and expected to have off days with eating. Beating yourself up will only backfire. Instead, reconnect with your motivation and get gently back on track at the next meal.
How fast should I be losing weight?
A healthy weight loss plan has you losing 1-2 pounds per week on average. Losing weight any faster than that is rarely sustainable long-term. Focus on slow and steady progress through lifestyle changes.
Do I have to exercise to lose weight?
You don’t need structured exercise to lose weight, but being active supports better health and can accelerate weight loss. The key is finding physical activities you enjoy and will stick with long-term.
What if I’m not seeing results?
Weight loss is complex, influenced by factors like stress, sleep, medical issues, and more. If you are making positive changes but not seeing expected results, consult a healthcare provider or nutritionist who can help troubleshoot.
How can I make this a lifestyle change?
The most effective weight loss happens when you transition the changes into lifelong healthy habits – enjoying nutritious whole foods, staying active, managing stress effectively, and caring for your mental and emotional health.
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