Moderation with food choices is a goal many of us have. Ideally, we want to feel healthy, have energy and be a comfortable weight. What gets in the way of good food choices? Does the influence of parents play a role? How much of what we do is habitual?
There are three food lifestyles to be aware of and only one that I recommend:
1) Under-eating (too little food)
Under-eating is a form of restriction. The purpose is to consume less, leading to weight loss. Be mindful if a diet is too constrained – missing the necessary satisfaction. It is still important to enjoy food and look after the body. Avoid trying to be perfect and battling with willpower.
2) Over-eating (binging)
Eating beyond physical hunger is indulgence. After people are too restricted, they bounce to the other extreme, binging. Perhaps after a 10-week challenge or because of work stress, they ‘cut loose’ one weekend to feel free. Emotional eating is also a form of indulgence. Neither of these are workable long-term.
Thankfully, there is a middle ground, The Power of Moderation. I cannot explain here all of the teachings you get in your transformation sessions at Inspire Hypnotherapy but I will share the philosophy. When your relationship with food becomes healthy, you don’t have to use willpower. Food no longer makes us anxious, sick and heavy.
3) Moderate eating
Moderation has us focused on satisfying physical hunger. Sure, food can still be pleasurable and comforting BUT it is not the primary motivation. As we know, overusing foods as a treat will make us anxious. Moderation means we hear our body wisdom. We ask questions like these:
• Am I actually hungry or bored?
• Can my stress be solved by another way not via food or alcohol?
• Which foods make me feel light and satisfied?
• In the present moment what does my body need?
Mindfulness questions allow us to use our higher mind. Do this often and balance will become easy. Any time you are seeking moderation you are using your cerebrum (higher brain functions). This is why mindfulness works, rather than reacting you have space to think and therefore respond differently.
How does hypnotherapy help? You get associations in hypnosis such as feeling positive about healthy food, becoming more present overall and feeling satisfied with your choices. We address your blocks and give you confidence to go for your goals.
If you want to boost your results with up to date mindfulness techniques and support then book an appointment. My mission is to make weight loss and health easier.