Set Yourself Free

Diet is a 4 letter word. Yes, one of those bad words. I think for most of us the word represents a battle. A battle in a war that never really ends. The ‘4 letters’ aren’t the problem, our relationship with food is.

The list of 10 reasons not to diet makes the word the problem. Words are not to blame. (Well, maybe some words are to blame…but that’s another story for a different day.)

The challenge for most of us is to find a happy relationship with food. To be able to think about food in a calm, friendly, more manageable way, we have to think about what we will eat, and when. Not every morsel, not every moment, but we need to understand that what we need is awareness.

“Making small gradual changes to our lifestyle” (reason 1 on the list if 10), and learning that with a plan we can navigate safely through temptations and choices. Without a battle, without bad feelings, your relationship with food can become a peaceful, positive one. Planning ahead gives you strength and support. It is amazing what a few hard boiled eggs, some lean grilled chicken and cut up veggies ready and waiting can do for you.

People who plan defend themselves from unwanted attacks. Let healthy choices, smaller portions, planned meals and snacks replace skipping meals and eating ravenously later. It’s the way to go. Planning is energizing. It’s positive attitude. It’s learning to live, maybe even enjoy, not fear, your self around food. Brian Wansink, Ph.D. calls it ‘mindful’ eating. Jane E. Brody rewards herself with ‘controlled indulgence’.

‘Planning’ to be a healthier, more balanced eater doesn’t limit your life, or make you negative, or push you to be critical or lose control of what’s real or true for you. It sets you free. Numbers are not really that ‘arbitrary’. If your weight is pushing the limits for your height, your health, or your ability to participate in and enjoy life, it’s disingenuous to say that extra weight is not an issue. Controlling your relationship with food allows you to feel good about your choices, your energy, and your possibilities.

Put an end to the battles. Why wouldn’t you want to try?

- Nancy