Losing weight is hard. Yes, that may be the understatement of the year, but it’s still true. It’s a downright difficult process, which is why so many people struggle with their weight every day. I know this is true because I’ve seen them. And I used to be one. In fact, “used to” isn’t the right verb – I am one of these people.
My entire life I’ve battled my weight problem, and it’s been quite the fight. There were times when I thought that the term yo-yo dieting was developed specifically with me in mind. But over the last year, I’ve been able to consistently shed pounds and actually keep them off. And perhaps even more importantly, it hasn’t been all that difficult. The trick for me was to look closely at what factors were contributing to my weight gain over years. By tweaking these factors, I was able make substantial changes to my life for the better.
So many different factors contribute to weight gain, it’s only fitting that these same factors are going to be essential to weight loss. And yes, there were a lot of them. Busy schedules at work often led to overeating when I finally had the opportunity. Family obligations and other events meant eating out often. Environmental factors were also a problem. Driving home past 10 different fast food restaurants wasn’t exactly helping my waistline. But the most important factor that needed tweaking was my stress level.
Stress was present in every inch of my life – work, home, school, friends, family, whatever. Not only was the stress itself unhealthy, but it led to even more unhealthy habits. We all know how easy it can be to reach for that leftover pizza or tub of ice cream after a difficult day. Sure, we felt good again at that point, but was it really worth it?
At the end of the day, I realized it wasn’t, and I knew that I had to learn to better manage my stress if I was ever going to keep my weight under control. Below are five different ways that I’ve managed to cope with the stress in my life, all of which I still use on a regular basis.
1. Take a walk
Everyone needs the occasional break. Just a 10-minute break can do wonders for the mind and the body, and allow you to refresh and recharge. Not only will it clear your head, but walking is also very relaxing. Next time you feel overwhelmed, go outside, leave the office or just go somewhere you have some room, and take a walk.
2. Be Proactive
When you feel stressed or overwhelmed, one of the worst things you can do is pout about it. Rather than stewing on everything you have to do, try being proactive and attacking your to-dos. Start by defining the problems and contemplating your basic goals. Then come up with a plan to reach these goals. In no time, you’ll have a roadmap through the stressful times.
3. Plan a fun activity
The next time you’re feeling overwhelmed, set aside some time to do something fun. Whether it’s a trip to the bowling alley, a round of golf or a weekend getaway, as long as it’s something you enjoy it’ll help you battle the stress. Planning it when you’re stressed will also help give you something to look forward to, which should almost instantly make you feel a bit better.
4. Get some sleep
Do you get seven to eight hours of sleep on a nightly basis? Chances are you don’t, which can be a contributing factor to high levels of stress. Staying well rested can help keep the mind relaxed yet focused and able to take on whatever the day may hold. Even a short nap can help on a stressful day.
5. Develop a support network
Sometimes the last thing we want to do is probably the first thing we need to do. One of the most important factors that can help weight loss is developing a network of friends and family you can lean on throughout the process. Take advantage of having the support available, especially when feeling stressed out. And don’t be afraid to grow your network – there are always people out there willing to help a fellow workout warrior.
Mike Tennant is a freelance writer from Orange County, CA. thanks to proper diet, exercise, and stress management, Mike has recently lost more than 125 lbs. Currently Mike works with Air & Water Inc., where he creates Web content you can view here.
{ 5 comments }
My biggest stressors are difficult people and lack of time. It’s further agitated by lack of sleep, so I’ll make that my immediate focus. I must slumber for more than the 5 hours I’m currently getting. Ugh.
Yum Yucky´s last [type] ..Tasting! Tofutti Cuties Fake-Azz Ice Cream Sammiches
Great post! I do try to do all of these, but I sometimes forget about “fun activities.”
Joanne @ mostlyfitmom´s last [type] ..What’s in YOUR Gym Bag
i agree with this, especially about having a support group. knowing that somebody out there knows what you are going through and can relate to it, can help relieve stress or “share the burden”. The thought that you know you are not alone is a big deal.
Stress also causes your body to store more belly fat so that is another reason to do whatever you can to minimize stress!
Deb Conn´s last [type] ..Eat This Not That Review
Stress can really do a number on your body if you are not careful! It will even cause you to gain weight even if your exercise regularly. You just have to find ways to help you cope better with stress.
Comments on this entry are closed.