Day 1: The Joy of Weight Loss

Instead of waiting until you lose weight to find joy, experience joy now, and the extra weight will come off easier. For the next seven daysand forever afterbegin to focus on what's positive and joyful in your life. Start by seeing what you already have that brings you satisfaction, comfort, and true joy. Focus on what's good, instead of what you have to change. Allow yourself to become aware of your relationship with food and with your body. Consider the question: How does food nourish my body, emotions, and attitudes in positive ways?

Most important, be thankful to God for all you have and for being alive. Here are three practices you might consider doing in the next 7 days, before you officially begin The Joy of Weight Loss plan.

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TODAY
1. Make a list of all that is positive and good in your life. Make sure you write down at least 10 things you are grateful for. Every morning, look over the list and add one more thing.
2. Take time (at least five minutes) for reflection and spiritual contemplation. Make a private, quiet space for yourself where you can sit and breathe deeply, paying close attention to each breath. Realize that you are a part of creation and a child of God (or a Higher Power, Allah, however you like to think of your Creator). Thank God for all that is positive and good in your life.
3. Be sure to take time every day to fully experience your life. Allow yourself some positive pleasure with family, friends, or at work. Do something fun and positive other than with food!

Until tomorrow!


Norris Chumley is the author of "The Joy of Weight Loss: A Spiritual Guide to Easy Fitness" (Lantern Books 2001). Visit his website.

No single approach to weight loss works for everyone. We urge you to consult your physician before making any significant changes in your eating habits or physical activities to ensure that what you propose for yourself is nutritionally sound, safe, and healthy.