By We’re rolling into a NEW YEAR!
I, like most of you, managed to gain a solid 5 pounds over the holidays, despite having hardly any company and eating almost entirely plant-based. Even though there were relatively few gatherings and no outside influence (or other people to blame), I had a strong desire to stuff my face with comforting foods full of sugar and warm spices.
It’s so tempting to start the new year with a weight-loss goal, but setting ambitious weight-loss goals have never gotten me anywhere. Even a so-called SMART Goal, like losing 20 pounds by May 31st or being down a dress size by summer, is still grand and overwhelming. I suggest we take our eyes OFF the prize. When thinking about making goals for the new year, let’s focus on what our bodies really need, regardless of what size they are.
Here’s what my body needs this year:
- MORE water. I seriously struggle to stay hydrated. Hot dark coffee is my drink of choice, and I often don’t drink a single glass of water before noon. Goal for 2020: Drink a glass of water most mornings before my first cup of coffee.
- LESS food. I am accustomed to eating large portions, plus seconds, plus snacks and sweets. You know by now that I’m not about severe calorie restriction, but honestly, I frequently ignore cues from my own body telling me that I’ve had enough because “dinner is so good.” I eat every meal as though it’s my last. Skipping seconds would mean more leftovers, less meal prep, and more time to pursue other goals I have, like feeding my soul and my mind. Goal for 2020: Eat a generous portion and then pass on the seconds 5 days/week. Skip late afternoon snacking so that I actually feel hungry at dinner time.
- JEANS that make me feel great! I want to wear jeans, shoes, bras, and jewelry that make me feel confident! Goal for 2020: Buy new jeans and sneakers, and wear all my awesome earrings.
I encourage you to think about what your body needs this year. More rest? More home cooked meals? More exercise? More sleep? Fewer donuts? Less stress?
Pick the one that’s most doable and go for it! You’re not going to do it perfectly, and that’s okay! But you’re going to make a little effort and that’s going to count.
She Shapes 