New Year's Advice from The Health Coach

The Holiday Season is notorious for creating distortions in the anatomy (aka weight gain) of so many people - it often takes a full year to return to normal. For many the effect of weight gain is permanent with each January the occasion for that ongoing ritual called the "Invocation of New Years Resolutions."

Eat, Drink and be Merry the encouragement goes, and like well-programmed sheep we indulge ourselves. In keeping with the spirit of the Season, caution is gleefully thrown to the wind and "a little more here and a little more there" results in a heavier tomorrow. The sorrow of the situation is that for many of us the changes are of such apparent insignificance no red flags are hoisted, no warning bells set off. Then one day, something doesn't fit as well anymore, and we find ourselves breathing a little harder from what used to be "child's play" on the physical exertion meter.

Obesity is the single most insidious health challenge of this century. The question is how can you and I maintain this temple called our physical body? Why is the business of Weight Loss a multibillion dollar industry? And the most distressing question remains - why is the failure rate so high no matter what diet system used? Almost 95% of all dieters regain their weight and often more within a year of embarking on a diet.

Is there an answer? Yes.

Studies have shown that when the focus is shifted from "weight loss" to "lifestyle change," the foundation for predictable change is established. In addition when the individual begins to view food as a necessity for biological survival rather than a source of pleasure, long lasting change can occur. Of even greater importance is the support, mentorship and guidance of a Health Coach, who can monitor and hold accountable the individual choosing to create such a major shift in their lifestyle.

As the New Year dawns, let us be mindful that one of our most precious assets is our health. If we cheerfully protect and preserve it, we will be giving ourselves the gift of a vibrant, joyful life, year after year.