Weight loss is a hot topic this time of year as people are sold the message to "get your bikini body" with the newest program.  I wanted to share a real approach to weight loss for people who really want the details on how to approach it in way that works with your body AND can be sustainable.

Fad diets, restrictions, skipping meals, & exercising for punishment are out and sustainable nourishing eating is the key for long-term success.

The Approach:

You notice you've gained a bit of weight now what?

1. Let go of any negative emotions, shame stories, guilt, low self-esteem all of it. Seriously, use the information as data. Just as when it's cold out we dress warmer, when it's hotter we dress cooler when we gain weight we need to use that data to benefit our health. Come at it from a place of curiosity and self-love.

2. Focus on your HABITS and PATTERNS. Bust out a piece of paper and clarify what's going on.  Turn your focus away from a lack mindset with weight loss, into inspired action.

- Are you sleeping? If you are not sleeping enough it can affect your weight, often when you are overtired you have more cravings for sugary or salty foods. There is science on it. So if you are not sleeping enough can you focus on things that can help you catch more zzz's?

- Are you eating well-balanced meals? Where is your nutrition right now? Be super honest and real with yourself. If you are not sure keep a food journal for 7 days and write down each piece of food that you are consuming including condiments, amounts, etc. It will show you some clear patterns of where things might be going really well or really not so great.

- Are you moving your body regularly? If you are not, why not? Can you add it in? schedule it in your days, create a plan.

- Are you hydrated? Often times you can mistake thirst for hunger so ensure you are well hydrated. It makes you feel better too.

3. Identify what you are struggling with or what might be contributing to your weight gain.

- Are you drinking too much? What's your plan to change that?

- Are you watching too much T.V?  are you mindlessly snacking while watching netflix?

- Are you addicted to sugar? Can you try a 10 Day Sugar Detox to reset your system? Grab my book and make it fun.

- Are you sedentary? How can you add in more movement?

- Are you not prioritizing your needs? You deserve time and attention and good health. What do you need? Can you schedule it in? Or ask for help?

4. Identify your WHY? Why do you want to lose weight? Is it for health reasons? is it to keep up with your kids? Get really clear on your why.

- My why is because my body knows it's healthy set point and over the past few months dealing with grief I've put on a few lbs so I want to get back to my set point to be the healthiest, happiest version of myself. I want to keep up with my kids, have a healthy body to avoid disease and feel vibrant.  It has nothing to do with looks. It has to do with the way I feel.

5. Focus on the long game. When you think of weight loss it should be something you can sustain. If you are in a cycle of restriction or yo-yo dieting get off the hamster wheel and find a better more balanced way.

I hope you found this episode helpful. If you want more support with health habits, sustainable weight-loss or achieving a healthier relationship with your body and food reach out I would love to work with you. www.pamrocca.com

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