Natural Healing: Journal for Weight Loss

Want to know the secret for lasting weight loss? It doesn’t involve grapefruit or cabbage (unless you like them) and you don’t have to engage in strenuous, sweaty exercise (unless you enjoy it). But you do have to follow the program for longer than ten days—in fact, you have to commit to it for a lifetime. The secret is to journal for weight loss. By doing this you can learn to listen to your body, mind and spirit, and to give yourself the nurturing and pleasure that you need. Sound simplistic? Perhaps, but as you have probably discovered, any diet or exercise program that relies solely on willpower is bound to fail. There’s a simple reason for this: We are hardwired to seek pleasure and avoid pain; it’s a basic survival instinct. Ignoring this fundamental aspect of human nature is a sure setup for failure. But acknowledging and appreciating your need for pleasure also provides you with the keys for your success.

What brings you pleasure?

First, you need to gather information about what brings you pleasure. Set aside at least one hour to begin your journey of self-exploration. Make yourself comfortable and brew a cup of your favorite herbal tea—this sets the tone for making self-nurturing a priority in your life. Now, make a list of at least twenty-five things that bring you pleasure. What makes you feel happy to be alive? Perhaps you enjoy an early morning walk with a friend. Or you might prefer to spend time in the morning reading cozily in bed and drinking tea. What brings you pleasure is unique to you. Do you enjoy soaking in a hot aromatherapy bath? Receiving a massage? Reading a novel? Gardening? Perhaps you like painting, photography or quilting. How about ballroom, salsa or belly dancing? Include as many simple pleasures on your list as you can think of—things that you can do for under five dollars and in less than one hour. The possibilities are endless, and will reflect your individuality.