I'm entering my third month in school (The Integrative Institute of Nutrition) and in these three months, I've learned a wealth of information. You would think it would be all about food, eating healthy, nutrition but there is so much more...so much more.
The fact that our Life - how we live it, enjoy it or not, how happy we are with it - ultimately affects and defines our food choices. Period. Now, this is not rocket science but when you are asked to look at your own life and reflect on how things are going, you begin to make the connection to how and what you are eating.
One of the benefits of attending this school is having my own health counselor. She is really great at what she does and has allowed me to look at more than what I'm eating but to look at how I'm feeling at any given time, what I'm thinking, etc. I am learning how to assist people in doing the same and while doing quite a few health history consultations of my own with friends, I've gained a lot of insight into how experiences in your Life can affect what you think and how you feel about food. Knowing that I will help others to be able to become aware of their thoughts and reflect on their lives in order to help them make healthier food choices, is such a rewarding feeling.
For me I realized that when I'm really busy with work and Life in general, I tend to crave sugar more. Specifically, I crave chocolate more and I always knew this but to really look at when I'm very busy and maybe stressed and become aware of why is the key to helping me make a better food choice when experiencing these feelings. You see it's not about NOT feeling what you feel, it's more about managing the feelings or thoughts, recognizing what's triggering it and not succumbing to the usual habit of grabbing those chips or box of cookies. It's about better food choices, which leads to weight loss and a healthier diet overall.
This is what I'm learning and will be offering people I eventually will be counseling/coaching. To be able to have or rather, realize, this 'power' within has made such a huge impact in my life. I challenge you to reflect on your Life and take a look at what creates stress or uncomfortable feelings. What in your life could be better so that you don't just grab that fast food burger or bag of chips; are you aware of the thoughts or situations that bring you to that point? Take one day and write down what and how you feel and the food choices you've made for the day. See how the 'bad' or not so healthy food choices correlate to your thoughts and feelings. Once you become aware, you can begin to make better food choices to live a healthier lifestyle. And if you need help with navigating all of that, email me (landr70255@aol.com). I can coach you through it. (smile)
Eat well and be well!
