Red Mountain Spa (Utah)
Foodies, fitness magazine readers and self-help hopefuls encounter this question frequently. Of course, there is not one simple answer. Nor is the relationship static. It may change from hour to hour, day to day or year to year. Also, if your feelings around eating are "healthy" - you may not think about it that much. If food choices come naturally, your health and body weight are in balance then, congratulations. You're there.
However, as obesity numbers continue to rise, obviously, many have allowed their eating and activity to get out of balance. Imagine if someone turned your food diary into a television show. Would it be CSI: Crime Scene Investigation, My Own Worst Enemy, Desperate Housewives, Lost or perhaps - Heroes?
When discussing health, weight, diet and exercise, how many times have you heard someone say "I know what to do, I just don't do it"? While the adult mind may fully appreciate the benefits of eating vegetables, the inner child just doesn't feel like eating the right stuff. Poor eating, especially in the context of health or weight issues, is like have a temper tantrum befitting a two year old. This is the "I want what I want when I want it" frame of mind.
Did your mother ever say, "If you are hungry enough you'll eat _____ " (fill in the blank with your least favorite food)? She was right. It really is a lot easier to eat healthy food when either 1.) it is all that is available and/or 2.) lots of physical activity produced a hearty appetite. Therefore, if you really want to make dietary changes - you may need to set up circumstances that make it easier to make healthy choices and thereby outwit the rebellious child in you. In other words, create a healthy path of least resistance.
My secret weapons are: planning and preparation. I simply pretend that I am getting things ready for an adorable child (me). I write out a daily plan, including how to fit in exercise, specify meals and snacks, make note of vitamins, water and any other needed reminders. Then, I set about making yummy, appealing snacks - which can include positive notes, quotes, etc. Pack exercise clothes, bottled water and leave the day's plan in a prominent place. Voila! Wake up the next morning and your decision to have a fantastic, healthy day is already made.
Does this seem like too much work? Why or why not? You would do it for a loved one - why not for yourself? Ultimately, your relationship with food is reflective of your self view. In this sense, our nutrition choices are either an affirmation of mature self care or an expression of unfulfilled childlike wants. However, be careful not to be too judgmental. Depending on self awareness and frame of mind, sometimes the worst thing to do is have a hot fudge sundae, whereas at another time it may be just the right kind of indulgence. Your gut will tell you, both literally and figuratively.
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