Control Your Cravings!

Of all the relationships in our lives, the one with our body is the most essential. It takes communication, love and time to cultivate a relationship with your body. As you learn to decipher and respond to your body’s cravings, you will create a deep and lasting level of health and balance.

 

No book or theory can tell you what to eat. The important thing is to understand why you crave what you crave. Perhaps your diet is too restrictive or devoid of essential nutrients. Perhaps you are living a lifestyle that is too boring or stressful. In essence, your body tries to correct the imbalance by sending you a message: a craving.

 

A sugar craving for a sweet could mean any number of things. You might need more protein, maybe your body needs more exercise, more water or more love in your life. The key to stopping the sugar craving is to understand and deliver what your body really needs.

 

A health coach, friend, family member, or therapist can help you figure out what your might need at the moment when you are having cravings. Cravings can feel overwhelming, and can take you over. When you get the “craving message” try the following tips to stop yourself from overeating:

-      Drink a glass of water and practice deep breathing meditation for 10 minutes.

-      Eat a healthier version of what you crave. For example, if you crave sweets, try eating fruit and yogurt or a healthy bar. I have a favorite sweet nutrition bar I eat as a snack at night that satisfies my sweet tooth.

  

To avoid cravings:

-      Practice mindful eating. When you eat, enjoy your food; savor it, taste it, take your time; eat with family and friends, and eat in a quiet or pleasurable environment.

-      Do not deny yourself delicious foods.

 

The body is an amazing source of intelligence. It is always there for you, never skipping a heartbeat, digesting whatever food you put in it, maintaining homeostasis, and you never even think about it. This reliable, intelligent bio-computer isn’t making a mistake by craving chocolate or a hamburger! The next time you have a craving, think about what critical piece of information this craving might be telling you about your body or your life. And, try not to beat yourself for having a lack of will-power or discipline if you indulge.

Until next time!

-Emily