one change at a time

Happy 2012 !

The new year is upon us and the gluttony of December is over. The new diet and workout plan has begun for many. The truth is, most people that resolve to start the year healthy don’t stick with it. Why?

#1:  Your goals have to be well thought out and fit your life. Do not set out to run a marathon by the end of the year if you are not prepared to do the work. A simple goal of “losing weight” is not really defined, so how do you know when you have accomplished it?  Take a few minutes to sit down and write out exactly what you want to achieve. How will you feel when you have achieved this? Tip: The most HIGHLY successful people still do this…how do you think they got where they are? A clear view on your goals is very important at all times.

#2:  Nutrition. Your body needs fuel.  Marion Nestle speaks on diet in her fabulously interesting book, WHAT TO EAT :

 “eat less, move more, eat lots of fruits and vegetables”.

How can we do this?

• Start with small changes, add more fruit and vegetables.
• A few weeks later really begin to watch those portion sizes and monitor your hunger. Many times we eat what is in front of us simply because it is on the plate.
• Another wonderful, but simple change is water. Drink it. There is so much conflicting information on how much you need. Here’s the deal: just drink it. Start the day with a glass or two of water. Have a glass of water after each meal. Sip water in between meals. Only you know what your body needs. Now is a great time to get reacquainted with your body and its unique needs.

#3:  Move that lovely body of yours!! Walk, run, lift, do a Jane Fonda video! Just move! Those dancy dance video games ( Wii, Kinect. .) are a great and fun way to start! Hop on a trampoline for a while. The point is your body was created to M-O-V-E and not sit all day at a desk. Try everything until you find what feels right to YOU.  How will you know if you like Zumba if you don’t try a class? Find a gym buddy. Hire a trainer.  Do whatever it takes to make it something you can stick with.

Most of all:  ENJOY THE JOURNEY.