I’ve read at least three articles about abstaining from alcohol for the month of January (aka Dry January) – along with countless articles + blogs about detoxes, cleanses and of course – diets. And it’s only January 11th.
Most of my life was spent either on a diet of off a diet. Either being good – or bad. Can you relate?
Those were also the years when I was battling bulimia and hating my body – no matter what the scale said.
We live in a society that is all about extremes…
- A month-long boot camp to punish ourselves for a sedentary December
- A juice fast to make up too many Christmas cookies
- Diet all week – binge all weekend
Restriction tends to have a rebound effect.
Whole 30 = ALL THE SUGAR when the 30 days is over
Dry January = “pour me another” February
Pre-cruise detox = buffet binges for 7 straight days
You get the point.
When I talk about moderation with my clients they love the idea. But when it comes to putting moderation into practice – that’s where the REAL work begins. It’s a foreign concept to those of us who are recovering yo-yo dieters.
If we embraced moderation – all year long – we wouldn’t be so tempted by fad diets + bootcamps + detoxes.
Moderation isn’t sexy. Moderation doesn’t promise that you’ll lose 20 pounds and two dress sizes in a month. Moderation doesn’t promise flat abs or buns of steel.
What moderation can give you is freedom.
Moderation can teach you to listen to your wise body and let it guide your decisions – rather than relying on a set of external rules.
Moderation is a way out of suffering – and a first class ticket out of Extreme Land.
Your body is so very wise.
If you tune in, it will tell you when to eat and when to stop. It will let you know which foods make it feel great – and which ones don’t. It will say – hey, I’m hurting – how about we take a break from the gym today.
Swinging between extremes is exhausting and ultimately unsustainable.
Dieting is NOT a successful permanent weight loss strategy.
Before you hop on board the train to Fast February or Detox March – stop and ask yourself one simple question…
How has the all or nothing approach been working out so far?
And if you’re ready to try something new, let’s chat Chickadee.
XO ~Robyn
I’m currently accepting new private coaching clients! Weight Loss Coaching is not another fad diet or get thin quick scheme. It’s a pathway to sanity around food, a healthier you – and a more delicious life. No calorie counting required.
I work with determined + smart + courageous women who are ready to get off the diet rollercoaster – for good.
To learn more about private Weight Loss Coaching, click here to schedule a free Discovery Session or email me directly at robyn@chickadeeweightloss.com.
Robyn Spurr is a Once Obese Chick, Eating Disorder Survivor, Certified Weight Loss Coach, Personal Trainer and founder of Chickadee Weight Loss. She helps women learn to manage their emotions without food and reach their healthy, natural weight without all the diet craziness.