Using Massage to Aid Weight Loss - PART 1

Okay, that sounds perfect doesn't it? Get a massage and lose weight! Unfortunately, it doesn't work that way, but massage can be an aid to losing weight through a healthy weight loss plan.

I'm going to be adding a new page on the website shortly with information on the benefits of massage therapy in relation to helping you with a weight loss plan. But to begin with, I started thinking about what simple steps we can take to eat more healthily, to be more aware of our bodies, so that we can look after it before, during and after any weight loss plan.


The following are just a few of my tips and suggestions, very simple and basic, but sensible too :) However, as always, if you are on any medication or have a medical condition, please check with your GP before starting and diet or exercise plan. There will be more to follow another day (saves this article being too wordy!)

1. Don't skip breakfast, it only leaves you feeling hungrier later on and you will probably eat everything in sight if you're anything like me!
   
2. Drink plenty water, keep hydrated - sometimes we mistake the feeling of thirst for hunger and so eat when we really only need some water.
3. Be aware of what it is that makes you want to eat or snack at certain times in the day - what are your trigger points?
   
4. Heighten your own senses and as you eat, slow down and see how you actually feel about what you are eating and why? For me, chocolate is my biggest downfall and I know before I eat it that I will feel horrible afterwards so I've started really taking the time when I eat it to decipher my feelings and what it is that I feel when I'm eating it! E.g. is it the taste, the sugar rush, the texture, the smell?
   
5. Exercise every day if you can. If you're new to exercise, start off gently with just 20 minutes a day but after a couple of weeks, stretch that out to 30 minutes per day and then longer in the following weeks. Don't overdo it though, get some professional advice - join a gym, get a trainer, or just walk every day - the list is endless!
6. If you get an attack of the 'munchies', try and focus your mind on something else, that way you can avoid eating unnecessary and unhealthy foods - it works!
7. Try using essential oils or herbal remedies to suppress your appetite. Rosemary, Fennel and Patchouli are good oils for helping to do this - BUT - always get your oils from a reputable supplier as many oils can be synthesised and adulterated. Always get advice from a professional aromatherapist and never take oils internally.
   
8. Reward yourself! Set yourself a goal and then reward yourself for reaching that goal. If, like me, you're trying to cut out the chocolate and biscuits, you could save the money you would normally spend on sweet treats and put this money towards a reward such as a facial, a manicure, a massage, a nice new handbag! Whatever you would like.

So that's the first half of my tips, I hope they help and please feel free to keep in touch and report your success stories to me here at Body Belle! Good Luck!

P.S. I may just add a diary blog here myself as I'm trying to shift some pounds for my cousin's wedding in August! And I will lose that weight :)