Think Thin, Be Thin by Doris Wild Helmering

Author:Doris Wild Helmering
Language: eng
Format: epub
ISBN: 9780767920261
Publisher: Potter/TenSpeed/Harmony
Published: 2004-12-27T16:00:00+00:00

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Feed Your Soul

"If prayer were available in pill form, no pharmacy could stock enough of it,” says internist Dale Matthews, M.D., author of The Faith Factor,who estimates that about 75 percent of studies of the impact of spiritual practices, such as regular prayer, have confirmed health benefits. Even when age, health, habits, socioeconomics, and other factors are considered, individuals who pray regularly and attend religious services stay healthier and live longer than those who rarely or never do.

One reason, suggests psychiatrist Harold Koenig, M.D., of Duke University Medical Center, is that people who engage in religious practices have a “perception of control” that strengthens their resolve, as opposed to a “perception of helplessness” that weakens it. Faith in a higher power promotes a positive outlook, optimism, healthy behavior, and a sense of self-efficacy—all essential for weight-loss success.

Although you can’t simply pray pounds away, here are some suggestions that can feed your spirit—and keep you from overfeeding your body:

• If you are religious, deepen your spiritual commitment through prayer, more frequent church attendance, or joining a prayer group. Pray regularly with your family. Read Scriptures, chant in the Buddhist tradition, or say the rosary. As you nourish your spiritual side, you will feel greater serenity and control, including control of your eating.

• If you are not religious, meditate (see Tip 45) and read the writings of inspired people of deep faith, such as Rabbi Harold Kushner and the Rev. Martin Luther King, Jr.

• Perform acts of selfless service. Volunteer at a hospital or retirement home. Work in a literacy program. Become a platelet donor for the American Red Cross or a driver for Meals on Wheels. When people give to others, they develop a stronger sense of self-worth, which leads to positive lifestyle changes.

• Ask yourself, “What is my higher value?” Your higher value is your ultimate goal, what you most want to accomplish. When you’re tempted to take a second helping, ask yourself, “What is my higher value?” Is it to lose weight, feel better, and eat healthier—or to give in to your immediate desire? When you’re feeling too weary to swim laps, ask yourself, “What is my higher value?” Is it to crash on the sofa every evening or to keep your body healthy and fit?

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