Addiction, depression & the holidays

Here it comes - the time of the year that should be about celebration, joy and togetherness. But instead stress and sugar bombard us from every angle feeding the addictive beast within, and resulting in depression, anxiety and feelings of inadequacy.

The holiday season feeds the New Year Resolution industry

No wonder New Year's resolutions are on everyone's mind around the holidays. Many people head into a holiday tailspin convinced there is no way to avoid the over consumption and weight gain that unfortunately coincides with the shortest, coldest, darkest days of the year.

We further compound our stress by creating the ridiculous expectation that we will be able to drag ourselves out of this funk and complete a major shift in our body and mind by making grand resolutions when we really should be hibernating.

Winter is a time of reflection - the perfect time to think, reflect and draft good plans for the coming year. I certainly don't believe this is a time for starting a juice cleanse, or deciding to head to the gym 6 days a week - that is just fighting nature.

So here is what I am asking of you for those of you who care about long-term health.

DO NOT CREATE ANY WEIGHT LOSS OR EXERCISE NEW YEARS RESOLUTIONS - JUST DON'T DO IT!!!

There is nothing miraculous about this upcoming January 1st, 2016 - it is just another day like today is, and like tomorrow will be, and the day after that.

Tomorrow is the disease of our modern culture.

Think about putting a system into place TODAY. Start with your mindset. Tell these truths to yourself.

Simple Truths
1. Everything you put into your mouth is either building you up or taking your down.
2. Every cell in your body is dependent upon the food you eat - every neurotransmitter, every hormone etc.
3. A healthy body has an easier time shedding fat than an unhealthy body - there is no argument against that period.
4. Restricted calorie diets are not healthy. That is the truth.
5. Sugar is bad for your brain and body - and feeds negative emotions - just google "sugar and depression".
6. Guilt will not serve you.

So if you are looking for a little more guidance around this subject here is a 2 part article on getting resolutions/goals right.
Part 1 Weight loss resolutions - Don't do it
Part 2 That lousy weight loss resolution

And I recommend this short video to help keep things in perspective.