The word should is toxic. We all believe we can accomplish more (we should do this and should do that) and when we don’t do so we place blame and shame on ourselves. However, the catch-22 is that the more we try to do or be perfect at, the more stress we create in our lives. And, unfortunately one of the numbers one ways people cope with stress is overeating.
The following are a few healthy ways you can try to reduce the stress in your life:
Step One: Get moving. Step away from the couch. Any movement is better than no movement. Getting rid of extra pent up energy by moving (dancing, exercising, cleaning, cooking, gardening, riding a bike, etc) will help to focus your mind and relive stress.
Step Two: Pencil it in. Put time on your calendar, every day, just for you. Even if it’s just 10 minutes per day, set time aside to remind yourself that you are important. If you don’t make yourself a priority then how can you help others?
Step Three: Just Say No. No is a two letter word that can be very difficult to say. Trying to please everyone in the world leaves very little if any time for you. By agreeing to do less you have more time to focus on you.
Stress and its side effects of overeating and lack of exercise can impact your weight, which can lead to even more stress. Identify what causes stress in your life and then take steps to combat those triggers. And, remember you are own best cheerleader. So, take a deep breath and try to let the stress go.
By: Molly McBrayer, Clinical Manager Bariatric and Metabolic Services
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