All this talk about Chocolate

made me remember why I don't lose weight... and then on the zen site I read I saw this:

8 Steps To Take Control of Your Weight

1. Substitute Water. Our bodies are about 65-70% water. It follows that water would be not only essential, but the best possibly choice of liquids to ingest. In fact, our bodies will sometimes simulate a hunger response, when in reality the body is craving hydration. When hungry, drink a glass or two of water to check if it suppresses your hunger.


2. 
   Chew Your Food. Chewing our food very slowly and deliberately has several benefits that are often overlooked. It gives us the ability to relax, and enjoy our meal. Slow chewing is the first, and highly important, step in a complex system of digestion. Besides, if we eat slowly, we might feel full before finishing the whole meal, and can leave the rest for the next meal.



3. Exercise daily. How silly of me to include something as obvious as exercise. I did a 30 day trial with waking up, and walking for 30 minutes first thing in the morning. My journal records that I was feeling amazing during the period of time that I was following this habit.



4. Publicize your intentions. The same way that Leo publicizes his challenges and book writing goals you can make your own goals public. Start a blog, join a forum, and have other people keep you accountable to help.



5. Create a food schedule. Plan your day so that you’re eating at approximately the same time each day. This scheduling will incorporate itself into your circadian rhythm, and aid in digestion.



6. Do not over eat. Know your limit and stop eating when you are full. I have often been a victim of wanting to finish a meal so that it doesn’t go to waste. This has left me with many a stomach ache. Next time, doggy bag it for later, and don’t hurt yourself!



7. Choose your snacks wisely. Put down the Doritos® and cheese puffs. Pick up the apple and baby carrots. Make the right decision, I know you can do it.



8. Lifestyle. Remember, it’s not about special diets, or special exercise programs. The real secret is in turning your health into a lifestyle, and focusing on this healthy lifestyle with every choice you make.

Nothing unusual in those statements... but actually following them is a different thing. I know I need more exercise. I know I should pick carrots and apples over chocolate... but implementing it... ahhh... that is the important point. Let me see how I do over the next week...