Often when people are trying to get fit, loose weight or simply be healthier they do a lot of research to find out the best way to achieve this goal. They buy books, search the internet and buy vitamins and supplements. They are searching for the answer to their ‘what’ question. What food do I need to eat? What exercise do I need to do? What health problem do I have?

Maybe the focus should be directed slightly differently. Most of us know that sensible eating and regular exercise are usually a good start for anyone desiring change. How about focusing on more ‘why’ questions. Why can’t I commit to an exercise program? Why do I overeat at meal times, even when I am full? Why do I lose motivation when it comes to exercise? Why do I fill my trolley with unhealthy, processed food when I know what I should be buying? Why do I lose control of my eating on weekends, holidays or special events? Why do I chop and change exercise programs, gyms or personal trainers? Why do I binge eat when no one is around? Deep down we often know what we should be doing but somehow it becomes hard to put these things into action.

I find a good place to start is looking at our stress levels. Everyone has some level of stress in their lives. It’s important to admit to yourself when stress is getting on top of you and that maybe its time to address it. Once stress levels are under control you will have a clearer mind and be able to make more sensible and informed decisions about food and exercise.

So, identify areas of you life that are causing you stress. Write them down in order of biggest to smallest, with a good explanation. Write down how you are currently dealing with this stress. Write this as an outsider looking in. Try and remove yourself from the picture. Now, looking at how you are currently dealing with these situations try and see other ways to manage the stress. If you can’t actually change the situation then changing your perception, focus and manner in which you handle it can make a huge difference. Things like yoga and meditation are very popular as is acupuncture which is becoming more and more recognised as effective for stress, anxiety and depression.

When you identify why you seek comfort in food it can become a lot easier to tackle over eating or bingeing. When you discover what you need to change, remove, or add to your life then turning to food for comfort becomes less of a priority.

Diversion is always a good tool and exercise can be a positive one. Going for a walk, having a session with your trainer or simply lying in a quiet space and stretching are all ways of taking your mind somewhere else. Also when you are fitter and healthier you are likely to be more in tune with your body and less inclined to sabotage your health.

Removing temptations and being organised are essential when trying to make change. If you think you’re addicted to eating snacks after dinner then have a healthy one planned, removing all ‘nasty’ treats from your home. Eating correctly during the day and not skipping meals prevents drops in blood sugar and hunger, helping you to control what you decide to eat. Hunger is a big trigger for over eating. You can’t think straight when you’re in this state and will always most likely lead to you making bad food choices.

© Kylie Pogson 2006

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