A Graceful Take on Weight Loss
Sabine Starr
A frequent topic from my coaching clients is the dreaded weight loss issue. When they start talking about it, I can already see the shame they have around it. Their posture sinks, voice loses energy, face is stripped of its natural radiance. How sad, I think, looking at this very accomplished, strong and passionate person in front of me, knowing that, for any change in life, we need energy, enthusiasm and determination.
My first step then is to listen until all the usual misconceptions, “musts” and “shoulds” have been said, and failure is written all over the person confessing. Then, the path out of this hole can begin, reminding them of their true self, of their strength, and then asking them to rate between one and 10 (one being “not important,” 10 is of “highest importance”) the importance of losing weight. Usually, anything from eight and higher has a great success prognosis. Seven, maybe six can still have success. A motivation of five or lower could have some success, but is usually rather unpleasant for the client, and not the best use of our time together. This rating can also serve as self-assessment. Honor the outcome and act accordingly.
Here are some new considerations regarding weight loss:
1. Usually, we can only achieve a positive change after we let go of any kind of self loathing, self judgement or resentment towards behaviors around weight or eating or exercising in the past. We are where we are, today. So incorporating any exercises, moments around forgiving ourselves and feeling good about ourselves is in order.
2. The gap between the average weight of models and the average weight of everyday women has been growing bigger over the last three decades. It is very important to recognize this and the pressure that the media puts on women, and increasingly, on men. Through that awareness we can soften the impact and separate it from our self image.
3. Our bodies are made to exercise, and our psyches and minds need it in order to function in a cheerful, well balanced way. Endorphins, the physical evidence of the positive effect of exercise, are being produced in our brains, and help us with feeling good. I believe that we all enjoy exercising in some way. Finding the right kind is a key factor.
4. Food is keeping us alive, but too much is stored as fat, which has the potential to slowly make us sick. A good balance and a specific approach is in order; we can´t decide to give up food. We need to be-friend it and have it support us as opposed to burden us, numb us or make us sick. One way of getting food on our side is to start physically handling it more, cooking meals for ourselves, taking in the colors with our eyes, smelling and feeling its textures. Spending time with food in that manner can lead to eating less, because other senses have already been satisfied.
Weight loss takes patience. Keep in mind that it took many years for the pounds to slowly climb up. Losing the weight in a graceful way can go just as steadily down, with time. It is essential to lay out a plan, make a strong decision to stick to it (mistakes allowed) and go on with a fabulous life while the weight loss is happening. More on this topic at: www.healthwithtaste.blogspot.com.
Category: Life Style
