Do you know this year Florida will go through a surge in baby births? Think about it! More time spent inside last year. Thats what it boils down to with more babies this year. Fear motivation makes people bond in order to weather the storm. Sometimes, Mother Nature in her on little way brings people together. Can hurricanes affect your weight loss goals? You bet it can! The obvious answer is, you are inside more, so the temptation to over eat is greater. The other way hurricanes affect losing weight is from an emotional level. Storms can make us feel out of control, overwhelmed, and darn right scared. In search of security and control we turn to food for stability, comfort, and trust. Only to realize later on that all is well which ends well. Can we overcome such temptations is the much larger question? Sure we can. It will take some pre-planning, decision making and transfer of emotions. Pre-planning: When you go out and get what you need to strengthen your home from the winds and rain. Get what you need at the grocery store to strengthen your body. You know that more time inside is going to increase your appetite. In anticipation of that, get more foods than normal in the better- for- you category. At least if you are going eat more in calories, the calories will be better for you. Or in the very least lower in fat. Decision Making: Anticipate the longer hours in the house. The pre-planed grocery trip helps, however, there has to be some offensive thinking as well. Make it a point to eat healthy during this temporary stay inside. Plan some fun activities to do. If you have exercise equipment, take advantage of this time to use them. Emotional Transfer: We tend to eat out of boredom and insecurity. Hurricanes are only temporary. Your weight gain can be longer lasting. Sustain from your over indulging for just a little while longer. One day, one meal, one emotion at a time. Dont let the temporary winds of the hurricane blow you off course of feeling better, and maintaining that weight loss goal. If need be revisit your goal list as many times as need be to keep you focused. Call someone. Anything to take the mind off of the illusion of losing control. |
