This our favorite topic at Weight Hope. We understand that we are holistic beings and our physical, emotional, psychological and spiritual selves are interdependent. We must care for all aspects of our being in order to truly live a healthy lifestyle. Those facing challenges with overeating and weight are no exception! It is not just our diet, our exercise, our self-talk, our relationships, our work etc. that makes up the quality of our life and wellbeing – but all these parts fit together as a whole to make us who we are. Each aspect of ourselves needs to be healthy for us to live a healthy lifestyle.
Balance
It is crucial to have a balance of work, family/social life, fun, hobbies, etc. in our lives. If we do not, we will be stressed, unhappy and for many of us, seek solace in food and overeating. We must proactively divide our time in our days to address all of our needs: physically, emotionally and spiritually in order to have a healthy mind and body. A balanced life is foundational to supporting a healthy body, mind and appropriate weight for our build.
Nutrition
Most of us have a good understanding of our nutritional needs. It is important that we honor these while also allowing for enjoyment and satiation in our food choices. Three meals a day is a comfortable plan for many and some may want snacks, too. The important thing is that we honor our bodies signs of hunger and fullness while also seeking to adequately nourish our bodies.
Rest
A regular bedtime and consistent 8 hours of sleep are often recommended for adequate rest. When we are well rested, we are better able to manage our moods, behaviors, and reactions. When tired, it is easy to react poorly to stressors and/or to make poor eating choices.
Exercise
Our bodies are meant to move. We all need regular exercise to feel and look our best. Exercise can be walking, running, biking, swimming, hiking, weight training, skiing, etc. We can participate in sports or groups that are based on the exercise of our choice. The important thing is to regularly move and exercise in order to maintain optimal health.