Four Simple Strategies to Help Maintain a Healthy Weight

There is no magic pill for weight loss. The best magic for weight management is weight maintenance. As with all things in life, moderation is the key. Here are four tips for moderation to help kick-start your spring health goals.

1. Do some type of exercise every day... preferably every morning

It is very easy to lie in bed having an internal dialogue: “It’s too cold. I could get sick”; “I’ll do it tonight after work”; or “If I go for a walk now, then I’ll be late for work.” Don’t think about it. Just pull yourself out of bed the second the alarm goes off. That’s right—don’t snuggle. Snuggling is not helpful. Just autopilot to the clothes that you left out the night before, open the door, and start walking. By the time your brain catches up, you will already have done 10 minutes.

2. Have lots of healthy foods available

It is much easier to make a healthy food choice when there are some healthy choices available! Make a big fruit salad to keep in the fridge for when you need a snack. Have some of your favorite veggies ready to eat when you are hungry. Make an extra-large salad at night and eat the leftovers for lunch the next day. Just leave the salad dressing on the side, otherwise your salad gets soggy.

3. Avoid TV

What is it about commercial breaks that trigger the munchies? Tape your favorite shows, then you can fast-forward the breaks. It works!

4. Indulge your mind, senses, and body with something other than food

Many of us love to cook, love eating out, love gourmet food stores. Break out of the food focus by pampering yourself in other ways. Take long aromatherapy baths with lots of bubbles. Get a hot rock massage. Curl up in front of a fire and read a book. Play with your cat or dog. Live life through things other than food!

Which moderation tips work best for you? Start a conversation and post your tips. You never know who you'll inspire!