Photo by Farhad Ibrahimzade on Unsplash
The word diet originated from the Greek word diaita, meaning “way of life”. Somewhere along the way, we morphed it from they way we live, something to me which sounds positive and life-affirming…into what we give up which sounds negative and something of a punishment. In the newer definition, it also has a beginning and an end. No one goes on a diet ‘forever’ although it probably feels that way.
The reason so many of us struggle with diets is because we are forcing ourselves to be deprived of things we enjoy. We give ourselves a start and stop date based on ambiguous goals. ‘I’ll start Monday (usually so I can binge over the weekend).’ ‘I’ll stop after I lose 10 pounds.’. ‘I want to fit into my wedding dress.’.
The reason this does not work for most people is complicated – yet simple. Complicated because we all have unique factors for what makes us tick, (read more about bio-individuality on my website). Some people love a challenge and will see it through. Some of us do not have that intensity, and when we fail, we eat more and like ourselves less. Some of us need an accountability partner, while some keep their journey quiet. Some of us eat because of trauma, or anger, or depression. Or just because we love Krispy Kreme (ok, I lived in the south for a long time!). From a basic science standpoint, diets start out working because we have changed a habit. You are eating new things and your body is adjusting. So you see success up front, then it usually goes downhill because you are not finding satisfaction, it’s too difficult, you don’t have support, or you run out of energy.
I challenge you to go back to the origin of the word: WAY OF LIFE. Figure out what works for you, how you feel your best, look your best, have energy, joy and satisfaction – and go from there - for life. Not for 10 days, or 6 months, but for good. Make small important changes and let them become part of your daily habits. Eventually you will enjoy that change and you can add a new one. Before you know it, you will be losing weight without dwelling on it. Now that is a good way to live!
If you need help with these changes, reach out to me. I can help you find your way of life!
In good health,
Jackie
#whydietsdon’twork #wayoflife #findjoy #eat