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Diet-Free Weight Loss
Learning to identify healthy serving sizes and nutrient dense foods is a great step towards losing weight and eating a balanced diet. However, for many people, knowledge is not enough to motivate behavior change. How can we move from knowing what we should be doing to actually doing it? The key is in focusing on one's belief system and creating a deeper connection to the peace within.
One way to begin this process is to practice mindfulness, a moment-to-moment awareness without judgment. Mindful eating is an excellent way to practice this non-judgmental awareness. Start by eating one meal each day without any distractions; No TV, reading, or multi-tasking of any kind. Eat the meal with your complete attention and without labeling the meal as either good or bad. Simply experience the foods and take note of how you feel internally (mentally, emotionally, physically, spiritually) in relation to each bite. Be aware of any resistances you may have and feel those too. If, or when, the internal dialogue begins "I shouldn't be eating this," "This is bad," "I'm so bad," "I'm doing great," "I'm eating lettuce," let the thoughts go and return your attention to your inner experience. As long you stay with your internal feelings you will eat only as much as you need. If you find you've eaten more than your body needs, that's okay, too, take the time to experience how that feels without passing any judgment.
If there is any rebellion against this process or the little child in you comes out declaring "I want what I want, and I want it now!" be present to that feeling as you would with a small child. Have compassion for it. Discover what is underneath those behaviors and then redefine those belief systems.
Journaling is also a good method to process reactions, feelings, beliefs, and experiences that may arise. Be patient and kind to yourself. This is a process. As you continue to practice being mindful with your eating, you will cultivate a deeper awareness and presence with all your interactions and in feeling the peace within. You can also find more mindful eating exercises at www.tcme.org or by contacting Lori at www.wisdomweightloss.com.
Gain knowledge on how to choose the most natural and healthful foods for you and your family with Organic and Local Foods.
Lori Montaigue is an integrative registered dietitian and registered counselor in private practice. She was a contributing writer to the best-selling book SuperFoods Rx. She has been lecturing and counseling groups and individuals on holistic nutrition and lifestyle change for over ten years. Lori combines the latest nutrition research with her presence and compassion to help you achieve greater health and awareness. You can contact Lori and read more about her approach at www.wisdomweightloss.com.
