America is the land of ample opportunities.
We want it now, we want it bigger, better, and we want it to be faster.
But what happens when what we want isn't that easy? Now we are entering the world that no one likes to think about: work.
But thinking that you have to enter that world in regards to weight loss is the misunderstanding that leads to the quick-fixes that just don't work and the frustration that follows.
Let's talk about how to change that common misconception by giving weight loss a new definition: weight loss is the integration of a healthy way of living, by a means that fits into your lifestyle.
Not so scary, not once did I mention the words "work" or "difficult" or even "change".
For weight loss to be permanent, it has to fit into your life, the way it is now, before you can begin to make lifestyle changes for the better.
If you try to change your life all at once, nothing will work.
"Baby steps" are the key, so let me introduce some "baby steps" to you now.
Changes in Daily Routine This is a simple step, it really is.
This is how it needs to start-with a multivitamin.
Yes I said a multivitamin, how many of you actually take one? Even if you were getting a by-the-pyramid balanced diet, you would probably still need some supplements.
I find that vegan multivitamins usually offer more than just a regular vitamin-they may offer other herbs, enzymes, or even probiotics (another good daily supplement).
Drink Your Water! Sounds simple, but are you aware that the majority of people do not drink the eight 8oz glasses of water requirement? And that isn't all the liquid you are supposed to drink per day, like juice and milk, it's just the water! A great addition to water is lemon.
Not only will lemon give some flavor, but it will give some benefits too.
Lemon is a wonderful body cleanser, it helps rid the body of extra mucus (like when you have a cold), helps stimulate the liver, and helps to clean the colon.
If you want a good drink to get your morning moving, take half a lemon in hot water (sweeten if you must-lightly) and enjoy.
Start drinking your water with as much lemon as you can comfortably take, and you will start to notice a difference, I guarantee you! Move Around Start exercising.
Exercise isn't a bad word either, we just need to look at it in a different light.
Do you think running is only if someone is running after you? Than don't run! There are thousands of ways to exercise! Try yoga, very relaxing and VERY effective.
How about swimming? Like to ride a bike? Gentle walks around your neighborhood every evening is a great start.
Whatever you do, just get off the couch, and you are taking a step in the right direction! I started you off with three ideas to make weight loss permanent.
You also are already aware, that changing your diet (and don't act like you don't know where to start) is important.
Incorporate foods like real fruit popsicles in place of cookies, or a baked potato in place of french fries.
The point of this article was where to start with "baby steps".
Not an entire life change, and most people know what areas of their life need to change.
This isn't a wag my finger at you article, this was about subtle changes that you can incorporate today.
When those subtle changes take root in your life and become routine, your diet will follow-believe me.
When you start to realize that you CAN make yourself feel good in easy ways, the more difficult ways, well, you may find that they aren't that difficult anymore.
Then and only then are you on your way to permanent weight loss my friend.